CT-47 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the CT-47 reflects Ta Chiao's commitment to building sturdy, fiberglass yachts during an era when Taiwanese builders were gaining international recognition for their quality craftsmanship. Ta Chiao, founded by the Kuo family in Kaohsiung around 1960, transitioned from wooden fishing boats to pioneering fiberglass construction in Taiwan by 1965. This foundational experience informed the robust build of their later yacht series. The CT-47, a product of this manufacturing ethos, started its production run in 1981. Ta Chiao's identity was strongly linked to its meticulous attention to manufacturing processes and the luxurious teak woodwork that defined its interiors, contributing to a classic and warm aesthetic highly sought by owners.

The design work for the CT-47 was undertaken by Kauffman & Ladd, rather than William Garden, who designed many other iconic CT series yachts. The model was offered with significant versatility, available with sloop, cutter, or ketch rigs, as well as options for a center or aft cockpit. This adaptability, along with various interior layouts, contributed to its success, with over 80 units of the CT-47/49 models reportedly built.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CT-47 is characterized by its moderate displacement and substantial ballast, contributing to a stable and comfortable motion offshore. With a displacement of 29,395 lbs and a length on waterline (LWL) of 37.5 feet, its Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 557 suggests a heavy, traditional cruiser designed for seaworthiness over outright speed. This heavy displacement indicates a vessel that will carry its way comfortably through choppy seas, often a desirable trait for long-distance voyaging.

The Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) for the CT-47, calculated at approximately 15.26, indicates a moderately powered sailboat. This suggests that while she may perform adequately in light airs, her true strength lies in her ability to stand up to a breeze and maintain a steady course in more challenging conditions. Further bolstering her stability is a Ballast to Displacement Ratio of approximately 0.408 (12,000 lbs ballast / 29,395 lbs displacement). This high ratio, exceeding 40%, signifies a stiff and stable boat, capable of carrying sail well and offering excellent righting capability if capsized. Owners have described the CT-47 as sailing "extremely well" and being "fast" for its type, making it an ideal cruising yacht. It is noted as being "very stable / stiff". The vessel features a Scheel keel, a design known for offering good lift and reduced draft for its keel weight.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the CT-47 is designed for comfortable living, reflecting Ta Chiao's reputation for spacious and luxuriously appointed cabins. While specific headroom dimensions are not consistently available, the builder's general philosophy emphasizes generous living spaces and the extensive use of teak woodwork, creating a warm and traditional yachting ambiance. The CT-47 typically features a versatile interior arrangement, often equipped with up to seven berths. Given the options for both center and aft cockpits, the interior layouts vary considerably.

Common configurations would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Center cockpit versions often allow for a large aft cabin, providing a private and comfortable owner's suite. The use of solid fiberglass for the hull and deck construction not only contributes to the boat's structural integrity but also often allows for more flexible interior arrangements than some other construction methods. Owners frequently praise the spacious interiors, making the CT-47 suitable for liveaboard purposes and extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the CT-47 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, underscoring its reputation as a capable bluewater cruiser. Many appreciate the robust fiberglass hull and the generous use of interior teak, which provides a classic and comfortable aesthetic. The boat's stability and ability to handle various sea states are frequently highlighted as major strengths, making it a favored choice for those planning offshore passages.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted specific maintenance considerations common with boats of this vintage. One discussion mentioned potential issues with a "Keel Tank" in the engine compartment/below the companionway, suggesting that tanks or their access could be a point of attention for some vessels. However, widespread, recurring systemic issues beyond typical age-related wear for a boat of this design are not extensively reported in readily available owner forums and reviews. The enduring presence of CT-47s on the brokerage market, often with significant upgrades, attests to their lasting appeal and the dedication of their owners.