Taswell 50 RS Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Taswell 50 RS emerged from a legacy of highly respected yachts built by Ta Shing, a Taiwanese yard that formally established itself in 1978 and began producing its own Taswell brand in the mid-1980s. The yard's manufacturing ethos, honed over decades, emphasizes hand-crafted quality, robust construction, and an unwavering attention to detail. For the Taswell range, Ta Shing collaborated with Bill Dixon, whose design philosophy centers on creating sailing yachts that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also inherently capable and seaworthy.

The "RS" designation signifies the Raised Salon configuration, a design choice aimed at enhancing interior light, ventilation, and panoramic views from within the main living space. While the Taswell 50 RS commenced production in 2000, it builds upon the successful foundations of earlier models, described as an extended version of the Taswell 49. Buyers could also specify variations in keel depth, with options including a shoal keel at 6.08 feet (1.98m) or a Scheel keel at 5.5 feet (1.68m). Like other Ta Shing yachts, the 50 RS features solid fiberglass hull construction, a hallmark of their commitment to durability and foundational strength.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Taswell 50 RS is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat, thoughtfully designed for bluewater cruising. With a displacement of 40,000 lbs and a waterline length of 41.92 feet, its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 242 places it firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, indicative of a comfortable motion in a seaway.

The reported sail area of 1100 sq ft, combined with its displacement, yields a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 15.04. While this suggests the boat is not a light-air flyer, it implies a manageable sail plan for a robust cruiser, with SailboatLab noting it is "slightly under powered" but ultimately "best suited as a bluewater cruising boat". The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 28.75% contributes to its reputation for being reasonably stable and stiff, possessing excellent righting capability, which is a critical attribute for offshore safety.

The cutter rig is a practical choice for offshore sailing, allowing the total sail area to be broken down into smaller, more easily managed sails, enhancing versatility and control in varying wind conditions. The theoretical hull speed for a vessel of this length is approximately 8.7 knots. Owners generally find the Taswell 50 RS to be a well-mannered and capable performer, particularly appreciated for its solid, confidence-inspiring behavior when tackling long distances and diverse sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Taswell 50 RS, benefiting from its raised salon design, offers a bright and expansive living environment that is a significant advantage for liveaboards and extended cruising. While specific headroom figures are not provided in the detailed specifications, the raised salon typically ensures generous vertical space and large windows, allowing for panoramic views and an abundance of natural light and ventilation.

Typical interior layouts for Taswell yachts of this size often feature a spacious owner's stateroom aft, frequently with an en-suite head, offering a private and comfortable retreat. The main salon is usually a focal point, designed for comfortable dining and lounging. Forward, there are often additional cabins, providing ample accommodation for guests or family. Ta Shing is renowned for its use of premium woods and hand-joined cabinetry, which translates into a high-quality finish and a warm, inviting atmosphere below deck. Storage is typically generous, a crucial consideration for long-distance voyaging, and the vessel boasts an excellent water capacity of 200 gallons (757 liters), further enhancing its self-sufficiency. The center cockpit design is often highlighted by owners as contributing to abundant deck space for activities, further enhancing the liveability of the yacht.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Taswell 50 RS and similar Taswell models frequently laud the robust construction quality, often describing them as "dream yachts" capable of taking them anywhere. The Ta Shing build quality, characterized by solid fiberglass hulls and meticulous hand-finishing, instills a strong sense of security and durability, which is paramount for bluewater cruisers. The comfortable motion in a seaway and the practical, well-thought-out layouts, particularly the benefits of the raised salon for natural light and views, are consistently appreciated. While specific common issues for the 50 RS are not widely documented in general owner forums, the overall reputation of Ta Shing-built vessels points to a loyal following of knowledgeable owners who praise the enduring value, skilled craftsmanship, and proven performance of these yachts for extensive global voyages.