Swan 39 vs Swan 40 Frers
How do the Swan 39 and Swan 40 Frers compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Swan 39 | Swan 39 | Swan 40 Frers | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 31.5 ft9.60 m | 32.4 ft9.88 m |
| Waterline length | 31.5 ft9.60 m | 32.4 ft9.88 m |
| Beam | 12.5 ft3.81 m | 12.9 ft3.94 m |
| Draft | 7.2 ft2.19 m | 7.0 ft2.15 m |
| Displacement | 18,001 lb8,165 kg | 19,401 lb8,800 kg |
| Ballast | 7,900 lb3,583 kg | 6,990 lb3,171 kg |
| Sail area | 761 ft²70.7 m² | 830 ft²77.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.73 | 18.39 |
| Displacement / Length | 257 | 254 |
| Comfort ratio | 30.6 | 30.6 |
| Capsize screening | 1.91 | 1.92 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.5 | 7.6 |
Swan 39 vs Swan 40 Frers: the short version
- The Swan 40 Frers is the larger boat at 32.4 ft9.88 m LOA versus 31.5 ft9.60 m for the Swan 39.
- The Swan 40 Frers is heavier, displacing about 8% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Swan 40 Frers carries the more powerful rig (18.4 vs 17.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Swan 40 Frers scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Swan 39 rates better for offshore work (1.91 vs 1.92).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.