Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd. emerged onto the global marine stage in 1973, founded in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The name "Ta Yang" itself carries significant meaning, translating from Mandarin as "big ocean," a fitting moniker for a company that would dedicate itself to crafting vessels capable of grand voyages. While the specific background of the founder, Y.P. Chen, isn't widely detailed in terms of a racing pedigree or engineering degree, the company's immediate focus on "blue water cruising yachts" clearly articulated their vision: to build sturdy, reliable boats designed for extended offshore passages. Early models, such as the CT-37 and the enduring Tayana 37, quickly established the company's reputation and laid the groundwork for its future success.
History and Evolution
From its inception, Ta Yang focused on the burgeoning fiberglass construction techniques of the era, a material that would prove ideal for their vision of durable cruising yachts. Over the decades, Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd. has achieved a remarkable milestone, having built over 1,400 blue-water cruising yachts. This extensive production showcases their ability to scale up manufacturing, becoming one of the first Taiwanese yards to successfully produce larger yacht designs. The company has remained a family-owned enterprise, with Peter Chen, son of founder Y.P. Chen, now at the helm, ensuring continuity of their established building philosophy.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Tayana Yachts has cultivated a formidable reputation in the sailing world for constructing some of the finest semi-custom blue-water cruising yachts globally. Their unwavering commitment to this niche has made them a leader in the segment, known for vessels that blend outstanding styling with exceptional live-aboard capabilities and the crucial ability to offer safe passage in even the most severe conditions.
A hallmark of Tayana's design philosophy is its emphasis on customization, allowing owners to tailor their yachts to specific needs and preferences. They offer a diverse range of configurations, including popular aft or center cockpit designs, as well as deck saloon or pilothouse options, providing versatility for various cruising styles. Tayana's construction is characterized by the use of high-quality materials and reputable equipment, including fine solid exotic woods for interiors and trusted brands like Lewmar, Whitlock, Yanmar engines, and Seldan Spars.
Crucially, Ta Yang's success is deeply intertwined with its collaborations with some of the most respected naval architects in the industry. The legendary Robert Perry designed several of Tayana's most iconic models, including the immensely popular Tayana 37, the successful Tayana 48, and the much-admired Tayana 52. Another significant partnership was with Robert Harris, who designed the well-regarded Tayana Vancouver 42. These collaborations ensured that Tayana yachts were not only robustly built but also expertly designed for offshore performance and comfort.
Iconic Models and Legacy
Throughout its history, Ta Yang has produced a line of yachts that have achieved iconic status among the cruising community.
- The Tayana 37, a Robert Perry design, is arguably one of the most recognizable and enduring models, often serving as the gateway yacht for many aspiring blue-water cruisers.
- The Tayana Vancouver 42, designed by Robert Harris, stands out as a testament to the yard's commitment to robust, cutter-rigged cruisers. Approximately 200 units of this model were built starting in 1979, cementing its place in the blue-water fleet.
- The Tayana 48, another successful Robert Perry design, further solidified the builder's reputation for capable offshore yachts.
- Perhaps one of Perry's personal favorites, the Tayana 52, built between 1983 and 1991, was described by the designer as having the "sweetest sheer I ever drew." This magnificent sailing machine epitomizes Tayana's dedication to creating elegant yet immensely capable cruisers.
Tayana's offerings have spanned a considerable range, with sailboats from 37 feet to 72 feet in length, catering to diverse cruising ambitions. While specific high-profile America's Cup projects or custom yachts for celebrated clients are not widely detailed, the company's consistent production of semi-custom, high-quality yachts has built a legacy of trust and capability among seasoned sailors.
The Builder Today
Today, Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd. continues its legacy as a prominent builder of blue-water cruising yachts. The company remains under the guidance of the Chen family, with Peter Chen leading operations. Tayana Yachts maintains its position in the global market by focusing on its core strength: providing well-built, semi-custom sailing vessels that prioritize safety, comfort, and offshore capability.
Modern Tayana yachts continue to appeal to discerning sailors who seek a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary cruising amenities. The ownership experience is often characterized by the strong sense of community among Tayana owners, many of whom are active cruisers who appreciate the yachts' robust construction and proven offshore performance. This loyal following is a testament to Ta Yang's enduring impact on the marine industry, providing vessels that truly live up to the "big ocean" in their name.
