Offshore 39 (Tanton) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Offshore 39 can be traced back to 1983, marking its debut in the cruising yacht market. Designed by Yves-Marie Tanton, the Offshore 39 (Tanton design #841) derives its hull form from an earlier 37-foot Tanton design, embodying the designer's philosophy of creating vessels suited for rigorous offshore sailing where they endure "repetitive stresses stacked up for days on end". This design ethos emphasizes structural integrity and a form that performs reliably in varied conditions. The vessel was sold in the USA by Offshore Yachts.

The builder, Ta Chiao, founded in Taiwan around 1960, transitioned from wooden fishing boats to fiberglass yacht construction by 1965, becoming a pioneer in the region. During the era of the Offshore 39's production, Ta Chiao had already established a strong reputation for meticulous attention to manufacturing processes and the construction of sturdy, ocean-capable cruising yachts. This commitment to robust build quality, including solid fiberglass hulls and decks, aligns perfectly with the Offshore 39's design brief for bluewater competence. A defining characteristic of Ta Chiao yachts from this period, including the Offshore 39, is their luxurious teak woodwork throughout the interiors, contributing to a classic and warm aesthetic. While specific production variations like MkI or MkII models are not widely documented, the consistent feature across the Offshore 39 line is its unique unstayed cat-ketch rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tanton Offshore 39 boasts specifications indicative of a capable cruising vessel. With a displacement of 18,200 lbs and a waterline length of 35.16 feet, it falls into a moderately light, performance-oriented class, suggested by a Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 187. Its Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of around 19.0 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air, while maintaining sail-carrying ability as the wind builds. Furthermore, a ballast of 7,000 lbs, comprising approximately 38.5% of its total displacement, points to a stable and stiff hull form, well-equipped to stand up to a significant amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion offshore. The hull features a fin (shoal draft) keel, contributing to its maneuverability and offering access to shallower anchorages.

A defining characteristic of the Offshore 39 is its unstayed cat-ketch rig. This unconventional rig, featuring two freestanding masts, simplifies sail handling considerably. The absence of standing rigging reduces maintenance and potential failure points, while the smaller, easily managed sails (typical of a cat-ketch) make it an ideal choice for short-handed sailing or for those seeking a less complex setup. Owners of similar Tanton cat-ketches have noted their ease of handling, even for experienced sailors in their senior years. The rig's design allows for flexible sail combinations, enabling the boat to be easily balanced across a range of wind conditions, which translates to a more comfortable and less fatiguing experience on long passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the maximum headroom for the Tanton Offshore 39 are not consistently provided in technical specifications, the overall interior is noted for its sensible layout and suitability for life offshore. The accommodation plan is described as straightforward and highly functional, with the central area encompassing the saloon, galley, and navigation station designed to feel spacious and well-lit. Ta Chiao yachts of this era are renowned for their meticulous finish and joinery, particularly the extensive use of luxurious teak woodwork, which creates a warm and classic aesthetic below deck, 8].

A common layout for a vessel of this size and cruising intent would typically include a comfortable V-berth forward, a main saloon with opposing settees (often convertible to berths), a functional galley with ample storage for provisions, and a dedicated navigation station. The Offshore 39 features an owner's double berth located in the starboard "hip" or quarter, providing a private and secure sleeping area, especially beneficial during offshore passages. The emphasis on solid construction extends to the interior, where robust cabinetry and well-secured fixtures are expected to withstand the rigors of a seaway.