Offshore 45 (Tanton) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Tanton Offshore 45 commenced in 1987. Designer Yves-Marie Tanton envisioned a vessel that blended performance with the robust qualities necessary for extensive offshore voyaging. The choice of a cat-ketch rig, notably with unstayed masts, is a defining characteristic of the Tanton 45, setting it apart from more conventional sloop or cutter rigs. This rig configuration is often lauded for its ease of handling and efficiency, particularly off the wind.

The builder, Ta Chiao, a Taiwanese shipyard founded by the Kuo family in Kaohsiung around 1960, had already established itself as a pioneer in fiberglass construction in Taiwan by the late 1960s. Their manufacturing ethos during this era focused on building sturdy, ocean-capable cruising yachts with meticulous attention to detail. This commitment to quality, combined with a reputation for luxurious teak woodwork throughout their interiors, ensured that the Offshore 45 was not only seaworthy but also aesthetically pleasing below deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 45 feet and a waterline length of over 39 feet, the Tanton Offshore 45 offers a blend of speed and stability. Her design ratios provide insight into her sailing characteristics, pointing to a lively and capable cruiser. The sail area to displacement ratio, at approximately 22.13, suggests excellent performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, allowing her to accelerate well. The ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.357 indicates a moderate level of stiffness, providing a comfortable motion without being overly tender. Furthermore, a displacement to waterline length ratio of approximately 189.67 classifies the Offshore 45 as a relatively light-displacement vessel for its size, contributing to its agile performance.

Anecdotal accounts suggest the Offshore 45 is a pleasure to sail, especially downwind, where she can achieve impressive speeds, outperforming boats flying spinnakers while maintaining an easy-to-handle demeanor. The cat-ketch rig, with its balanced sail plan, contributes to balanced handling and reduced effort for the crew, a significant advantage for long-distance cruising. The vessel's fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further enhance her directional stability and control, providing a secure feeling in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts are not extensively documented in readily available information, the Tanton Offshore 45 is known for a sensible interior arrangement well-suited for life offshore. Given Ta Chiao's reputation for luxurious teak woodwork in their yacht interiors, it can be inferred that the Offshore 45 features a classic and warm aesthetic with quality finishes below deck. The design prioritizes practicality and comfort for extended voyages, likely featuring conventional arrangements such as a V-berth forward, a main salon, a galley, a navigation station, and private head compartments, offering ample storage and adequate ventilation essential for long passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tanton Offshore 45 frequently form active communities, exchanging insights and experiences, highlighting a strong appreciation for these vessels. While specific, widely reported common problems are not readily highlighted in general reviews, the general consensus aligns with Ta Chiao's reputation for solid construction. Owners consistently praise the Offshore 45 for its robust build quality and comfortable motion in a seaway, attributes crucial for a true bluewater cruiser. The emphasis on safety and practicality in its design is a recurring theme among those who sail her.