Tiara Yachts 39 LE

Think about your first mobile phone.

Mine was a Motorola DynaTac 8000X in the mid-1980s. It weighed in at 2.5 pounds, took calls only, and offered no text, no internet and no games. Fast-forward to 2007 and the introduction of Apple’s iPhone, which weighed just 4.8 ounces and packed so many features into a modern, compact package.

That’s precisely the mentality influencing many boat designs today. Tiara Yachts “dialed in” the correct features, packing in all its innovations into its most compact Luxury Express (LE) model yet. Tiara Yachts’ LE series includes the 48 LE, 43 LE, and the newest addition to its portfolio, the smartly tailored 39 LE. Each of the LE models is defined by a fully enclosed helm area, transformative salon seating and a classic interior space for comfortable overnighting. The challenge Tiara faced in designing this model was clearly layout optimization. And by the looks of it, they managed just fine.

Addressing faster speed, Tiara powers all three LE models with twin Mercury V12 600-hp outboards. During our test drive, the 39 LE settled into an optimum cruise range of 35 to 39 mph, producing a range of 305 to 312 statute miles. For Loopers, that easily covers a couple of notoriously long stretches on the Mississippi.

Get comfy

For overnighting, below deck features two separate sleeping areas, including an owner’s berth forward with hanging lockers and a lockable privacy door. Natural lighting, an optional wall-mounted TV and rather unique pop-up outlets with USB connectors for recharging phones and laptops add to an uncluttered look. Tucked behind the staircase is a less private sleeping berth that is perfect for kids. Space optimization is most notable here with a low ceiling and narrower mattress. Based on my years of cruising, this area is likely to be used for spur of the moment storage, or nights when snoring dictates separate sleeping accommodations.

The head and shower below deck are plenty big and fashionable, there is a galley that checks the IRS box for Second Home Status and, of course, there’s a flat-screen TV. The 39 LE’s below-deck galley is the only model in the current Tiara lineup with this configuration, which frees up additional seating and entertainment space above deck.

Standout features on the 39 LE are evident in the aft cockpit terrace. Known as the Buffet Lounge Module, this bench seating for three rotates and locks at 0, 45 and 180 degrees, and has cup holders on both ends. Behind the seat, the buffet area includes the industry’s workhorse Kenyon electric grill and a countertop above the 3.25-cubic-foot insulated cooler tub, which can be upgraded to a refrigerator/freezer.

Enjoy the outdoors

For a decade now, several boat brands have featured a fold-out wing. Each year brings an improved design, and Tiara has upped the game with a well-sculpted, electrically actuated terrace in the port side. When lowered, you have an uninterrupted view of the water, excellent access to stage for watersports or, if you’re anchored in chest deep water, a convenient resting place for beverages and snacks.

Two insulated and macerated floor tubs add valuable storage for fenders, mats, ice or the occasional fresh catch of the day. By the way, check out the cup holders now designed to double as rod holders.

For those seeking a different zone, enjoy the bow sunpad. With space for two, the upholstery is recessed to minimize wind resistance and does not inhibit the boat’s profile view. Raise the two chaise backrests for added comfort. At your fingertips are drink holders, USB-C charging ports and a dedicated controller for the Fusion audio zone.

Technology made simple

When it comes to electronics, this model keeps up with its larger siblings. Call it a Glass Cockpit or Modern Open look, it features Garmin’s newest 17-inch MFD (a second Garmin 9617 is optional) and EmpirBus digital switching system. In essence, no rows of rocker switches or push buttons. Everything is on the screen except for the horn and VHF. EmpirBus links to the NMEA 2000 network, which reduces wiring throughout the boat, removing construction weight and putting you completely in control from the helm.

Overhead, an electronic sunroof, a remote- controlled sunshade for the aft deck and a host of other environmental controls work in concert to take advantage of sunny days and extend your cruising time when conditions are less than ideal.

Several well-placed footrests at the helm coupled with a forward and aft sliding Stidd helm seat adapted to my body size and comfort desires. Sightlines were solid coming out of the hole, and thanks to both a joystick and beefy bow thruster, maneuvering in a stiff wind and outgoing tide puts any skipper at ease and firmly in control.

Two optional pieces of equipment worthy of adding are the Seakeeper 4.5 gyro stabilizer and an all-chain windlass. The anchor locker is a through-stem integrated plow style, complete with a washdown system.

A bit of engineering prowess to cement your confidence in Tiara is an optional cockpit TV. To prevent damage, the flat screen will not fold down from the hardtop while underway; you can only do so from the helm via a digital switching interface, and the lift system includes a locking pin to secure the TV from slipping while underway. This experience-driven redesign is being added to all Tiaras that offer the hardtop TV option.

There are countless other thoughtful touches on this model. American-made in Holland, Michigan, the 39 LE stays true to Tiara’s timeless designs. Boaters trading up in size or scaling back with age will find this new, innovative and versatile cruiser filled with design excellence.