Tatoosh 51 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Tatoosh 51 entered production in 1983, with its build run concluding in 1984. During this period, Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd., under its formal establishment in 1978, had already cemented its status as a premier OEM builder for numerous respected brands, gaining acclaim for its commitment to solid fiberglass construction and an unwavering attention to detail 1, 2, builder article. The collaboration with Robert Perry, a prolific designer known for his traditional aesthetics and offshore capabilities, further underscored Ta Shing's dedication to quality design 1, 2, 4, builder article.

Perry's design philosophy for vessels of this caliber typically focused on creating yachts that were both capable in challenging conditions and comfortable for extended periods at sea. The Tatoosh 51 was offered with two distinct rig configurations: a versatile cutter rig or a powerful ketch rig, allowing owners to choose the setup best suited to their cruising style, 5]. The cutter rig, in particular, is often favored for offshore sailing due to its ability to break down the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tatoosh 51 is characterized by a heavy displacement hull, which translates to a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of 44,000 lbs and a waterline length of 42.08 ft, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 263.6 signifies a robust, traditional cruiser, built to handle offshore conditions rather than prioritize extreme light-air speed. Her reported sail area of 1216 square feet (for the cutter version) gives her a sail area to displacement ratio of around 15.75. While not indicating a light-air flyer, this generous sail plan is noted for delivering excellent performance in lighter winds, allowing the boat to maintain way effectively.

The vessel's ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.318 contributes to its overall stability, helping it stand up to a breeze, a critical attribute for a bluewater cruiser. Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Tatoosh 51 is designed for directional stability and responsive handling, characteristic of well-conceived cruising yachts [5,. Reviewers have also highlighted its comfortable motion, noting that it rates as more comfortable than 76% of similar sailboat designs. These characteristics combine to offer a secure and confidence-inspiring sailing experience, especially in open ocean conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in all specifications, the Tatoosh 51, with a length overall of 50.58 feet and a substantial beam of 15.42 feet, offers ample volume below deck for comfortable living during extended voyages. Drawing parallels with closely related designs like the Skye 51, which shares a similar heritage and production era with Ta Shing, the interior layout typically features a thoughtful arrangement designed for liveaboard comfort and practicality at sea.

Such layouts commonly include a spacious V-berth forward, a well-appointed head, a generously sized salon, a functional galley, and often quarter berths or an aft cabin. The renowned craftsmanship of Ta Shing would mean the interior likely features high-quality joinery, often with extensive use of premium woods, hand-joined cabinetry, and durable finishes, reflecting the builder's commitment to aesthetic excellence and longevity. Storage solutions are typically abundant, designed to accommodate the provisions and gear required for long passages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tatoosh 51 often praise its solid construction and the meticulous build quality inherited from Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. Many consider it an exceptional bluewater cruising boat, well-suited for extended voyages thanks to its robust build and comfortable motion. The ample fuel capacity of 150 gallons and a generous water supply of 275 gallons further underscore its self-sufficiency for long passages. While detailed owner reviews citing common issues are not extensively documented in public forums, the overall consensus points to a highly capable and enduring yacht that embodies the Ta Shing legacy of building world-class cruising vessels.