Tayana 65 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Tayana 65 commenced in 1989, a period when Ta Yang Yacht Building Co. Ltd. had already firmly established its reputation for building high-quality fiberglass blue-water cruising yachts. The company, founded in 1973, became known for its commitment to durable construction and semi-customization, a legacy that continued with the Tayana 65. While specific design goals for the 65-foot model aren't extensively detailed, it aligns with Robert B. Harris's expertise in designing robust, ocean-going vessels, building upon the yard's successful collaborations with prominent naval architects for their entire range. The builder's ethos, guided by the Chen family, has always been to produce vessels that offer safe passage even in severe conditions, utilizing high-quality materials and reputable equipment in their construction. The Tayana 65, with its substantial dimensions and deep fin keel, exemplifies this dedication to offshore capability. Information regarding significant variations in the production run, such as MkI or MkII versions, is not widely available, suggesting a relatively consistent design throughout its build.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tayana 65 is configured as a cutter rig, known for its versatility in sail plan management, particularly in varying wind conditions. With a reported sail area of 1909 square feet, her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) calculates to approximately 16.89. This indicates a moderately powered vessel that, while not a light-air flyer, is designed to perform capably across a range of conditions and stand up well to stronger winds.

Her ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) is a substantial 0.405 (or 40.5%), signifying excellent inherent stiffness and stability. This high ratio means the Tayana 65 is designed to remain upright and comfortable in a seaway, providing a secure platform for long passages. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 523.34 firmly places her in the heavy displacement category. This characteristic contributes to a comfortable motion offshore, allowing the boat to punch through waves rather than being tossed about, and suggests a powerful hull form that values seakindliness over outright speed. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Tayana 65 is a very stable and stiff boat with excellent righting capability. Her skeg-hung rudder further enhances directional stability and offers protection to the rudder itself, a common feature in well-regarded blue-water designs.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not detailed in the available data, the Tayana 65, given its expansive 17.75-foot beam and nearly 65-foot length overall, offers voluminous accommodations well-suited for extended cruising and live-aboard comfort. Interiors are typically "richly appointed and finished in a natural, satin varnished teak wood," reflecting Tayana's commitment to using fine solid exotic woods and high-quality craftsmanship.

A common layout on vessels of this size would typically feature multiple cabins, often including a spacious owner's stateroom, guest cabins, and multiple heads. The design likely incorporates a generous salon area, a well-equipped galley suitable for offshore cooking, and ample storage throughout for provisions and personal effects. Many larger Tayanas, including some 65-foot models, feature deck saloon or pilothouse options, which provide enhanced visibility and additional protected living space. Natural lighting and ventilation are typically prioritized, with numerous opening ports and hatches designed to create a bright and airy interior. The emphasis would be on creating a comfortable, luxurious, and highly functional living environment capable of supporting a crew or family for extended periods at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tayana yachts, including the larger models like the 65, often form a dedicated community, with a strong sense of pride in their vessels' robust construction and proven offshore performance. While specific reviews for the Tayana 65 are less numerous than for smaller, more widely produced models, the overarching sentiment for Tayana yachts points to their durability and blue-water capability. Owners consistently praise the solid fiberglass hull construction, which provides a reassuring feel in challenging conditions. The ability to customize aspects of the yacht's interior is also a frequently mentioned strength, allowing owners to tailor the vessel to their unique cruising needs.

Common maintenance considerations for yachts of this vintage and size often revolve around the upkeep of complex systems, which multiply with the vessel's scale. While no specific recurring issues unique to the Tayana 65 were widely noted in public owner forums, general maintenance for older fiberglass boats can include scrutinizing original deck fittings for leaks that may require re-bedding over time. The substantial use of interior teak, while aesthetically pleasing, requires ongoing care to maintain its pristine condition. Overall, the Tayana 65 maintains its value due to its superior build quality, solid reputation, and a devoted owner base who appreciate its capabilities as a serious, comfortable cruising platform.