Taswell 49 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Taswell 49 emerged from the Ta Shing shipyard in 1989, marking a significant offering within the builder's own "Taswell" brand of performance cruising yachts, a line fully designed by the British naval architect Bill Dixon. Ta Shing, with roots tracing back to 1957, had by this era established itself as a global leader in constructing high-quality, semi-custom bluewater vessels, known for their unwavering commitment to hand-crafted quality and durable hull layups, often featuring solid fiberglass construction. Bill Dixon's design philosophy for the Taswell range emphasized fluent, not radical lines, aimed at creating sailing yachts based on proven principles that prioritize both performance and comfort.

During its production run, the Taswell 49 was offered in at least two distinct versions: a standard model and the highly regarded "All Season" deck saloon variant. The "All Season" version stood out with its full deck saloon, featuring a U-shaped settee and panoramic windows, offering enhanced interior light and protection from the elements, as well as an inside helm position. Additionally, some models were built with a shallower Scheel keel, providing versatility for various cruising grounds. The vessel's robust design and construction were later refined and continued in the subsequent Taswell 50 model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Taswell 49 is engineered for confident blue-water performance, balancing sail-carrying ability with inherent stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.66, she is a moderately powered vessel, capable of performing well across a range of wind conditions without being overly tender or under-canvassed. This ratio suggests a yacht that can maintain good speeds in light to moderate air while remaining manageable when the wind pipes up.

Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.40 further underscores her stability, indicating a stiff boat designed to stand up to a significant amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust stability is a hallmark of Ta Shing's construction ethos. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 196.86 places the Taswell 49 firmly in the medium-heavy cruiser category. This design choice contributes to a solid, stable ride, often described as resolute in its motion through the water, capable of maintaining pace even against wind and tide. Owners report that the Taswell 49 sails well both on and off the wind, and is a well-balanced long-distance cruising yacht, capable of cruising easily at speeds of 7 knots or more.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Taswell 49 is designed for extended liveaboard comfort and long-distance cruising, reflecting Ta Shing's reputation for quality interiors crafted with premium woods and hand-joined cabinetry. While specific headroom figures are not always readily available for all areas, the "All Season" deck saloon version boasts a generous pilot house headroom of approximately 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters).

Typical layouts feature three cabins and often accommodate six or seven berths, providing ample space for owners and guests. The interior is characterized by a classic teak finish and traditional teak and holly sole, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. A common and highly praised feature is the private aft stateroom, often configured with an en-suite head, offering owners a comfortable and secluded retreat. The main salon is typically spacious, and in the deck saloon variant, panoramic windows flood the area with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness and offering excellent visibility. Storage throughout the vessel is generous, catering to the needs of long-term cruisers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Taswell 49 consistently praise its solid construction and the overall quality inherent in Ta Shing-built yachts. Many appreciate the vessel's well-balanced nature and its capability as a long-distance cruising platform. The private aft stateroom with an en-suite head is frequently highlighted as a favored feature, contributing significantly to the comfort and privacy onboard. The design, described as fluent and not radical, offers a timeless appeal, and the boat's ability to maintain good speeds comfortably, even in varying conditions, is often noted. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the robust nature of Ta Shing construction generally translates into enduring vessels that are deserving of appreciative owners.