Tayana 55 Information, Review, Specs

The Tayana 55 emerged during a period when Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd., founded in 1973, was establishing itself as a premier builder of blue-water cruising yachts. The company's name, "Ta Yang," meaning "big ocean" in Mandarin, perfectly encapsulated their vision for durable vessels designed for challenging offshore conditions. From 1982 to 1991, Ta Yang applied its manufacturing ethos, focusing on high-quality fiberglass construction and semi-customization, allowing owners to tailor their yachts to specific needs.

Unlike many other iconic Tayana models designed by Robert Perry, the Tayana 55 was the creation of Dutch naval architect Pieter Beeldsnijder, recognized globally as a premier designer. Beeldsnijder's philosophy for the Tayana 55 centered on creating a hull with durable, versatile, and safe characteristics, particularly for heavy air offshore sailing. The design brief emphasized live-aboard comfort and safety at sea, aligning perfectly with Ta Yang's reputation for building robust, cutter-rigged cruisers. While the primary model was a fin keel design, a keel/centerboard version was also offered, providing versatility for various cruising grounds. The considerable beam of 16.08 feet further underscores its design for volume and stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tayana 55's design ratios paint a clear picture of a capable offshore cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.93, the Tayana 55 is not a light-air speedster but possesses a moderate sail plan well-suited for a variety of conditions, providing sufficient power without being overly demanding in stronger winds. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 36.3% indicates a good level of initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind. While not indicating extreme stiffness, it suggests a comfortable and controlled motion at sea.

The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 223.32 firmly places the Tayana 55 in the category of a heavy cruiser. This substantial displacement, coupled with its full bow and a long waterline of 45.92 feet, contributes to a smooth and stable ride, absorbing the impact of waves rather than being tossed by them. Owners often describe the Tayana 55 as a "reasonably quick boat for its length," and its handling characteristics are generally praised, with many finding it well-balanced for ocean passages, even under limited crew. The skeg-hung rudder further enhances directional stability and offers protection to the rudder itself, a valuable feature for offshore sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tayana 55 is highly regarded for its spaciousness and the significant degree of customization offered by Ta Yang. Rather than adhering to a single rigid layout, each Tayana 55 often features bespoke interiors, though common configurations include a forward guest cabin with a V-berth, a generous salon, a well-appointed galley, and a comfortable aft cabin, often serving as the owner's stateroom. Many examples showcase extensive use of fine solid exotic woods, contributing to a warm, traditional, and luxurious finish 8, 9, Builder Article.

The interior volume allows for ample storage throughout the vessel, essential for extended cruising. Features like a large forward storage or "crash bulkhead" highlight the builder's focus on offshore safety and utility. While specific maximum headroom figures are not consistently available, the substantial beam and overall volume suggest comfortable standing room throughout the main living areas. Ventilation is typically achieved through numerous hatches and portlights, common in well-designed cruising yachts of its era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Tayana 55 for its solid construction and suitability for serious ocean crossings and live-aboard comfort. The vessel is often chosen by those planning extensive voyages, appreciating its proven offshore performance and sturdy build quality. Many owners highlight the manageability of the boat, even for small crews, noting that sailing operations can be handled effectively without necessarily relying on electric winches.

However, like any vessel of its age, there are common maintenance considerations. A recurring issue noted by some owners is the tendency for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, often requiring re-bedding to ensure watertight integrity. Despite such typical wear and tear, the general consensus among the Tayana community is that these yachts are well-built and any potential issues are usually identifiable and manageable during a thorough survey. The strong sense of community among Tayana owners often provides a valuable resource for sharing experiences and advice on maintenance and upgrades.