Mystic 60 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The production of the Mystic 60 commenced in 1987, emerging from a design brief that emphasized creating a "classic 'proper' yacht designed for cruising" with "spirited performance". This vision was brought to life by German Frers, a designer celebrated for his ability to craft yachts that excel in both speed and seakeeping. The project was the culmination of five years of planning by Alan Morgan, aiming for a vessel that would appeal to those seeking exceptional ocean cruising capabilities paired with a more engaging sailing experience.

The construction of the Mystic 60 was undertaken by Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd., a Taiwanese yard with a sterling reputation for meticulous craftsmanship and robust, hand-crafted quality. During the 1980s, Ta Shing was actively involved in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) contracts for several acclaimed brands, including Mystic Yachts. Their build ethos, characterized by solid fiberglass hulls and premium interior finishes, ensured the Mystic 60 benefited from a foundation designed for longevity and seaworthiness. Over its production run, the Mystic 60 design saw evolution, with some models featuring sloop or ketch rigs. Owners could also opt for "performance versions," which included a taller rig and a deeper bulb keel, catering to those prioritizing enhanced sailing characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Mystic 60's design ratios underscore its blend of cruising comfort and performance potential. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.49, the yacht suggests a strong ability to perform well in lighter air conditions, ensuring enjoyable sailing even when the wind is moderate. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, an impressive 0.511, indicates exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain an upright position, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 184.98 places the Mystic 60 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a vessel of its substantial length, promising responsive handling without sacrificing the benefits of its generous proportions.

Equipped with a cutter rig and a spade rudder, the Mystic 60 is known for its balanced helm and responsive handling. Anecdotal evidence from owners often highlights the yacht's ability to maintain excellent control and comfort across various sea states, a testament to Frers's design and Ta Shing's build quality.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Mystic 60, often attributed to the design talents of Petter Yarn, is renowned for its spaciousness and the quality of its finish. The design brief for the interior aimed to reflect a modern lifestyle while providing the comfort and functionality required for extended offshore passages.

While specific layouts may vary, typical arrangements feature a centrally located saloon with a dinette, offering a spacious and inviting communal area. The accommodation is described as "exceptional for her size," providing ample room for extended cruising. Given Ta Shing's reputation, the interior would likely showcase premium wood joinery, hand-finished cabinetry, and durable materials throughout, creating a warm, elegant, and highly functional living space. These yachts typically feature well-appointed staterooms, including a comfortable V-berth forward, dedicated heads with showers, a functional galley, and various quarter berths or additional cabins, all designed to maximize comfort and storage for long-distance voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Mystic 60 consistently praise the yacht for its robust construction, seaworthiness, and comfortable motion offshore, which are hallmarks of Ta Shing-built vessels. Many have undertaken extensive global voyages, attesting to the Mystic 60's reliability and capability as a true world cruiser. The design by German Frers, coupled with Ta Shing's meticulous build quality, results in a yacht that instills confidence in its crew, even in challenging conditions. The "spirited performance" aspect is also frequently highlighted, indicating that these yachts are not just comfortable but also engaging to sail. While specific common issues are not widely reported, the overall sentiment points to a well-engineered and well-built yacht that holds its value and continues to provide immense satisfaction to its discerning owners.