Tayana 64 Information, Review, Specs

The Tayana 64 began its production run in 2003, a collaboration between designer Robert Ladd, Noyce Yachts of Annapolis, Maryland, and Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd. of Taiwan. Ta Yang, whose name translates to "big ocean," has a long-standing reputation for building sturdy, reliable blue-water cruising yachts since its founding in 1973. The company's ethos, carried forward by the Chen family, emphasizes customization, high-quality materials, and a focus on vessels capable of safe passage in severe conditions.

The design philosophy behind the Tayana 64 aimed to create a yacht that was contemporary in appearance while offering strong sailing performance and elegantly accommodating a raised salon deckhouse. This model also featured the latest in building techniques, a large sail area, and a wide beam. While earlier Tayana models often featured designs by naval architects like Robert Perry and Robert Harris, the 64 saw a new design partnership, reflecting an evolution in the builder's offerings. There have been updated versions of the Tayana 64, with at least one notable revision to the coachroof, indicating a continuous refinement of the design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tayana 64 is configured as a cutter rig, a popular choice for offshore sailing as it breaks the yacht's extensive sail area into smaller, more manageable sails. With a reported sail area of 2075 square feet and a displacement of 61,098 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 21.38 suggests that the Tayana 64 is well-powered, capable of performing commendably in lighter air while still being robust enough for heavier conditions.

The yacht's ballast of 21,054 pounds results in a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 34.5%. While not the highest in its class, this ratio, combined with a fin keel, contributes to a balanced feel and good maneuverability. The fin keel design enhances agility compared to full-keeled cruisers.

The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 156.68 (using displacement in long tons), places the Tayana 64 on the lighter end of the scale for a vessel of its impressive 55.85-foot waterline length. This suggests a design that, despite its considerable size and offshore capabilities, aims for a relatively more performance-oriented profile than some traditionally heavy displacement cruisers. Owners and reviewers note the "balanced combination of power and ease of handling," often highlighting an array of push-button controls that simplify managing this large yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tayana 64 is generally described as classic rather than overtly contemporary, featuring rich, dark wood finishes. Although specific headroom measurements are not consistently available, the yacht's substantial beam of 18.05 feet and overall volume suggest generous living spaces below deck.

The layout of the Tayana 64 often reflects a high degree of collaborative input from individual owners during the build process, allowing for semi-customization of the interior to suit specific cruising needs. While exact standard configurations vary, typical large cruising yachts of this size and pedigree would include multiple staterooms, a spacious main salon, a well-appointed galley, and multiple heads. The raised salon deckhouse design, specifically for the Deck Saloon version introduced in 2003, aims to provide ample natural light and panoramic views from within the main living area. Tayana's commitment to using high-quality materials, including fine solid exotic woods for interiors, ensures a luxurious and durable finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tayana yachts often form a strong community, frequently praising the robust construction and offshore capabilities of their vessels. While specific owner reviews for the Tayana 64 are less widely published compared to more numerous models like the Tayana 37, the general reputation of the builder suggests that owners value the yacht's semi-custom nature and the ability to tailor the vessel to their specific cruising ambitions. The focus on safety, comfort, and offshore performance typically resonates with seasoned sailors who choose a Tayana. Potential owners should always consider a thorough survey for any large, complex cruising yacht, as maintenance history is paramount.