Taswell 58 RS Information, Review, Specs

The Taswell 58 RS emerged from the Ta Shing shipyard in 1999, embodying the builder's commitment to creating high-quality, semi-custom yachts suitable for extended offshore passages. Ta Shing, known for its meticulous craftsmanship, solid fiberglass hull construction, and use of premium materials, partnered with Bill Dixon to develop its proprietary Taswell range, which spans from 43 to 60 feet. Dixon's design philosophy for the Taswell series, including the 58 RS, centered on balancing a moderate displacement hull with a powerful sail plan to achieve both performance and comfort at sea. His approach prioritizes livable interiors and seaworthiness, crucial for vessels intended for long, comfortable passages. The 58 RS features a deep lead keel and a skeg-hung rudder, indicative of its robust, offshore design. The "Raised Salon" (RS) is a key design element, which, along with "All Season" versions, often includes generous natural lighting and, in some larger Taswell models, options for a second steering station within the pilothouse-like salon. This design aims to provide enhanced comfort and usability across various climates and conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Taswell 58 RS is engineered for comfortable and capable bluewater cruising, a characteristic reflected in its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 14.13, the Taswell 58 RS suggests a powerful sail plan for its displacement, allowing it to move efficiently while prioritizing stability over light-air racing performance. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.30, combined with a substantial lead ballast of 19,500 lbs, contributes to a stable and stiff motion, enabling the yacht to stand up well to strong winds and provide a comfortable ride in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 264 places the Taswell 58 RS firmly in the category of a moderate to heavy displacement cruiser, indicating a yacht built for solid performance and seaworthiness rather than outright speed.

The yacht's hull speed is calculated at 9.28 knots, suggesting efficient passage-making capabilities. Owners generally describe the Taswell 58 RS as a yacht that handles predictably and offers a balanced helm, making it well-suited for long-distance voyages. The vessel is available with a standard draft of 7.75 feet or a shoal draft option of 6.75 feet, offering versatility for different cruising grounds while maintaining good upwind performance.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Taswell 58 RS is a testament to Ta Shing's reputation for luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. The "Raised Salon" design is central to the yacht's interior appeal, providing an exceptionally spacious living area with abundant natural light and excellent visibility. The joinery, often featuring premium woods and curved furniture designs, is widely regarded as second to none, reflecting a bygone era of yacht building quality.

While specific layouts can vary as these are semi-custom yachts, typical arrangements for a vessel of this size include multiple private cabins, often featuring an expansive owner's stateroom aft. The salon usually incorporates a large navigation station and comfortable seating areas for dining and lounging. Ventilation is reportedly exceptional, a critical feature for bluewater cruising in varied climates. Ta Shing's use of hand-joined cabinetry and durable finishes ensures not only a visually stunning interior but also one built to withstand the rigors of offshore life., 7] Modern conveniences such as air conditioning, comprehensive AV equipment, and ample storage are typically integrated, aligning with the yacht's mission as a comfortable liveaboard cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Taswell 58 RS consistently laud its solid construction and the overall build quality synonymous with Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. Many have undertaken extensive global voyages, attesting to the vessel's reliability and seaworthiness in diverse conditions., 7, 10, 14] The comfortable motion in a seaway and the exceptional ventilation are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, enhancing the liveability of the yacht on long passages. The high standard of interior joinery and finish is a source of pride for owners, underscoring the enduring value and aesthetic excellence of these yachts. The Taswell 58 RS is widely regarded as an ideal blue water cruising boat, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and security that appeals to discerning sailors.