Cape Horn 39T: 2024 Boat Buyers Guide

The Cape Horn legacy ­began 35 years ago in the garage of Chris Fabbro and his father, Bob Fabbro, ­after they recognized the need for a no-nonsense fishing boat meeting the de­mands of hardcore fishermen while remaining affordable and easy to maintain. 

The Cape Horn 16 Classic was the result, launching a still-growing line of premier offshore boats, including newly designed models already known for a dry ride and soft entry. The boats boast huge floor plans that provide an uncluttered “work” station when the bite is on—no fancy footwork needed if multiple hookups occur. Most of the offshore models are equipped with two enormous livewells and possibly the largest fully insulated fish box available—9 feet long! If you can catch it, it probably fits in here.

Cape Horn 39T

The Cape Horn 39T, biggest in its four-boat Tournament line and boasting a top speed of 69.2 mph and a 565-mile cruising-speed range, puts the big ones within reach, on schedule. “An unrivaled length-to-beam ratio,” the company says, “makes running 100 miles offshore routine.”

Tournament anglers will appreciate pressurized livewells of 60 and 56 gallons each, and a 9-foot, 1,600-quart insulated fish box. In all, the boat bears a stunning 49 rod holders. Forward and aft coaming bolsters are standard. 

A hardtop with rear legs is standard too, as are 18-foot outriggers with telescoping poles. A crow’s nest is optional. Two large electronics boxes are within the top. The boat features a deluxe bolster seat leaning post, and rear seating is standard. At the helm is a massive 48-by-18.5-inch electronics area. The walk-in console has 6 feet, 2 inches of headroom, a Sani-Potti and a holding tank.

Storage is generous, with multiple gunwale boxes, aft floor storage with removable boxes, and a large cooler on the console. 

Electronic steering is standard, as are spreader lights, and a three-step stainless-steel dive ladder and two transom gates.

Also standard is a quad trailer with disc brakes and mag wheels. Options include underwater and under­-gunwale lights, a windlass and a VacuFlush head. 

Editor’s Tip 

There’s nothing better than a meal of fresh fish. To get the most out of your catch, make sure you bleed it as soon as possible. Then, cover it with ice, being sure to fill the chest cavity on species like tuna. Cooling these down immediately will ensure the best taste later. -Joe Albanese, Executive Editor Salt Water Sportsman

Performance Data

• Test Power: Twin Mercury V-12 Verado 600 hp
• Test Props: Verado 12, stainless steel, pitch 31, 31
• Test Load: Total as tested, 18,000 lb.
• Test Speed: Cruise 35.1 mph at 3,500 rpm
• Max Range: 565 mi.

Specifications

Cape Horn Boats – Milton, Florida; capehornboats.com