Tartan 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Tartan 28 emerged during a period when Tartan Marine, founded by Charles Britton, had already established itself as a leader in fiberglass sailboat construction. The company, which consolidated its manufacturing operations in 1971 after a factory fire, was known for embracing advanced materials and construction techniques, moving beyond traditional wooden boat building. The Tartan 28, built with a solid fiberglass hull and solid fiberglass deck, reflected this commitment to durability and modern composite technology.

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, a firm celebrated for its performance-oriented and aesthetically pleasing yacht designs, the Tartan 28 features a fin keel and spade rudder, characteristics that contribute to its agility and responsiveness on the water. While the Tartan 28 did not undergo dramatic generational changes, a variant known as the "Tartan 28 Piper" is noted in some records, suggesting minor refinements or alternative configurations were offered during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 28 is consistently praised by owners for its sailing prowess. It is described as a boat that "sails very well, fast, easy to maneuver and well balanced," making it a joy to handle across various wind conditions. Its masthead sloop rig provides a generous sail plan of 408 square feet, contributing to its performance-oriented nature. The boat’s design, featuring a fin keel and spade rudder, facilitates responsive steering and efficient upwind performance, typical of a well-designed cruiser-racer. Its righting moment is considered to be higher than many similar sailboat designs, contributing to its stability. Owners frequently highlight the Tartan 28 as a capable and enjoyable vessel for all-around sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its under 30-foot length overall, the Tartan 28 is noted for its efficient and comfortable cabin layout, designed to comfortably accommodate its crew. While specific headroom figures are not always listed, the interior is generally regarded as spacious for a boat of its size, aligning with Tartan's philosophy of building yachts with practical liveability. Typical interior arrangements for vessels of this class and era include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, and a galley area. The builder's commitment to quality suggests a finish that likely incorporates wood trim and robust fiberglass components, characteristic of Tartan's "heirloom quality" reputation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tartan 28 frequently commend its strong sailing performance, balance, and ease of maneuvering. They appreciate its speed and comfortable motion, even in challenging conditions. The boat's construction is often regarded as robust, reflecting Tartan's reputation for solid build quality.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Tartan 28 can present some common issues. A frequently cited concern among owners relates to the keel-to-hull joint, which has been noted as a potential weak point prone to delamination, requiring potentially costly repairs. Additionally, some surveyors and owners have reported wetness problems in the deck and hull, suggesting that the original deck fittings or core areas may be susceptible to leaks over time, necessitating careful inspection and re-bedding. Despite these potential maintenance items, the loyal community of Tartan 28 owners underscores the enduring appeal of this well-regarded cruiser-racer.