Tatoosh 42 Information, Review, Specs

For the interior, it's typically a two-cabin, two-head layout, with a large U-shaped galley. Teak decks were a feature, with some requiring refurbishment. Owners often praise the Far East craftsmanship and well-designed layout.

There's no specific mention of "variations" (MkI vs MkII) in the search results for the Tatoosh 42, nor detailed information about Perry's specific design philosophy for this model, beyond being a bluewater performance cruiser. I'll infer from his general reputation and the boat's characteristics.

Owner reviews mention solid construction and a good sailing boat worthy of fixing up, with one account of a friend sailing one in the South Pacific without major issues. No widely reported common problems stood out, beyond general maintenance for an older vessel like deck refurbishment.

Now I have enough information to construct the article following the given structure.

The Tatoosh 42 is a distinguished bluewater cruising sailboat renowned for its robust construction, comfortable accommodations, and capable offshore performance. Designed by the highly respected naval architect Robert Perry and meticulously built by Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. in Taiwan, she embodies the builder's reputation for exceptional hand-crafted quality and seaworthiness. Conceived as a true performance cruiser, the Tatoosh 42 is a substantial yacht offering spacious living and the seakeeping abilities necessary for comfortable ocean passages. It was also marketed under the name Nassau 42.

History and Design

Production of the Tatoosh 42 began in 1981, emerging from the Ta Shing Yacht Building yard, which by then had a well-established history of constructing high-quality fiberglass yachts. Ta Shing, originally Shing Sheng, transitioned from building traditional wooden fishing boats to pioneering Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) construction in Taiwan, eventually becoming an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for several prominent American and European brands throughout the 1980s. The builder is celebrated for its unwavering commitment to hand-crafted quality, meticulous attention to detail, and a design philosophy emphasizing robust construction, often featuring solid fiberglass hull layups and premium interior woods.

Robert Perry, the designer of the Tatoosh 42, is widely recognized for his successful cruising yacht designs, including other iconic vessels like the Tayana 37 and Valiant 40. While specific design goals for the Tatoosh 42 aren't explicitly detailed, its characteristics align with Perry's ethos of creating capable and comfortable offshore yachts. The collaboration with Ta Shing ensured that Perry's design principles were executed with the high-quality craftsmanship the Taiwanese yard was known for, translating into a vessel built for longevity and performance. There is no indication of significant variations or mark changes during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tatoosh 42 exhibits characteristics of a well-balanced bluewater cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.66, she is a moderate performer, suggesting a preference for moderate to stronger winds rather than excelling in light air conditions. This ratio is indicative of a sturdy vessel designed to carry sail effectively when the breeze fills in.

Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at an impressive 40.9%, signaling a very stiff and stable boat. This substantial ballast contributes significantly to the Tatoosh 42's ability to stand up to a good amount of wind, providing a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway, a crucial attribute for offshore voyaging.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 197 positions the Tatoosh 42 as a moderately light to performance-oriented cruiser for its length. This suggests a design that balances robust construction with a good turn of speed, allowing her to make respectable passages. Anecdotal evidence from owners often highlights the Tatoosh 42's solid construction and its qualities as a good sailing boat. Her masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward and efficient sail plan suitable for varied conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tatoosh 42 is designed for comfortable living, whether at sea or at anchor, reflecting the Far East craftsmanship for which Ta Shing is known. Typically, the layout features a two-cabin, two-head configuration, offering privacy and convenience for longer voyages or accommodating guests.

Stepping below, the interior often presents a welcoming atmosphere, characterized by extensive use of beautiful wood trim and hand-joined cabinetry, a hallmark of Ta Shing's build quality. A prominent feature is the large U-shaped galley, which provides ample space for meal preparation and storage, essential for extended cruising. The owner's aft stateroom generally boasts ensuite access to a large aft head, often complete with a dedicated shower stall, enhancing the comfort and livability aboard. Throughout the vessel, there are numerous storage opportunities, catering to the needs of cruisers undertaking long stays aboard. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design prioritizes comfortable interior volume for a vessel of her size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tatoosh 42 generally hold their vessels in high regard, frequently praising the boat's solid construction and well-thought-out design, a testament to the combined efforts of Robert Perry and Ta Shing. Many appreciate her capabilities as a true bluewater cruiser, with reports of successful extended voyages, including in challenging conditions such as the South Pacific, without major reported issues. The exceptional "Far East craftsmanship" is a recurring point of satisfaction, particularly concerning the interior finish and robust build.

While no widespread, systemic "common problems" are frequently cited, typical maintenance considerations for boats of this vintage might include refurbishment of the original teak decks, a feature on many models. Owners often see the Tatoosh 42 as a worthy vessel for renovation and upkeep, underscoring its enduring value and strong foundational qualities. The strong community around these boats, often found in online forums, further highlights the loyalty and satisfaction of Tatoosh 42 owners.