Flying Dutchman 12 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Flying Dutchman 12 lies in the mid-1970s, when Willem Eickholt, then a part owner of Flying Dutchman Yachts, embarked on a mission to build his ideal "dreamboat." He partnered with Eva Hollman, a designer noted for her work (and formally associated with Sparkman & Stephens), to craft what has been affectionately described as a "beautiful SUV of the ocean." Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd., known for its dedication to sturdy, reliable blue-water cruising yachts, was chosen for the construction. From its inception, Ta Yang focused on durable fiberglass construction, aligning perfectly with the vision for the FD-12. While Eickholt initially imported the vessels into the USA, he later formed Willem Eickholt and Associates, Inc. in 1980, continuing to oversee the production of the FD-12, highlighting its custom-built nature. There is no widely documented record of significant variations or marks during its production run, underscoring the bespoke approach to each build.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall exceeding 50 feet and a waterline length of 42 feet, the Flying Dutchman 12 presents a substantial profile designed for comfortable passage making. Its displacement of 35,175 lbs, coupled with a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 212, positions it as a moderate-weight sailboat that offers a reasonably good balance of performance and stability for a cruiser of its size. The calculated sail area-to-displacement ratio of about 15.9 suggests that while not a dedicated light-air flyer, the FD-12 possesses sufficient sail power for effective progress in varied conditions.

A significant strength of the Flying Dutchman 12 lies in its impressive stability, evident from its ballast-to-displacement ratio of over 40%. This high percentage of ballast relative to its overall weight indicates a stiff and stable boat, providing excellent righting capability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, crucial attributes for offshore sailing. The cutter rig, chosen for the FD-12, further enhances its offshore capabilities by breaking the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, making handling easier, especially in stronger winds. Owners generally describe the Flying Dutchman 12 as a very stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up well to robust wind and sea conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Flying Dutchman 12 is designed to maximize live-aboard comfort and functionality, befitting its blue-water cruising purpose. While specific headroom details are not widely documented, the generous dimensions of a 50-foot vessel generally allow for comfortable standing throughout. The typical layout often features a forward owner's stateroom, complete with an ensuite head and shower, providing privacy and convenience. The main saloon is generally configured with a U-shaped dinette, offering ample seating for dining and socializing, complemented by a settee.

Consistent with Ta Yang's builder ethos, the interior finish would likely incorporate fine solid exotic woods, contributing to a warm and classic yacht aesthetic. Storage is typically abundant, essential for extended voyages, and ventilation would be managed through a combination of hatches and ports strategically placed throughout the vessel. Owners have noted that while some interior elements like cushions, refrigeration, and air conditioning may have been updated over time, certain "signature" FD-12 features from the original design often remain.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Flying Dutchman 12 consistently praise its robust construction and offshore capabilities, which align with Ta Yang's reputation for building durable cruising yachts. The boat is often regarded as a high-quality cruising yacht, attracting owners who value solid performance and a comfortable motion. The custom-built nature of each FD-12 means that individual boats can have unique specifications, yet the underlying design and construction quality by Ta Yang are frequently lauded. While specific recurring weaknesses are not widely documented, the overall satisfaction scores for the model suggest a well-regarded vessel among its owners. The community of owners often highlights the boat's ability to handle demanding conditions safely and comfortably, making it a trusted choice for long-distance cruising.