Tartan 33 R Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 33 R was produced by Tartan Yachts between 1979 and 1984, building upon the foundation of the Tartan 33 design. While the broader Tartan 33 family was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, the "R" designation signifies a more performance-oriented variant. This version featured a masthead rig and a deep-draft fin keel, contrasting with some of the standard 33's shallower keel options, making it a notably faster boat. Tartan Yachts, under the leadership of Charles Britton, had by this era firmly established itself as a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction, known for its robust build quality and commitment to advanced composite technologies. This ethos of durable construction and thoughtful design is evident in the Tartan 33 R, which maintained the company's reputation for "heirloom quality" yachts. The 33 R's design was further developed into the Tartan 34-2 in 1984, which involved extending the stern and altering the interior layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 33 R boasts impressive performance characteristics, reflective of its design as a "racing" variant. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.5, she is well-powered, suggesting strong performance in lighter air conditions while still being manageable as the breeze builds. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.44 indicates a high degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a greater amount of wind and carry sail effectively, translating to a more comfortable and powerful motion through the water. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of around 186 places the Tartan 33 R in the lighter, more performance-oriented class for its size, contributing to its reputation as a "much faster boat" than its cruising counterparts. Anecdotal accounts often praise the Tartan 33 R for its responsive handling and balance, a testament to its deep fin keel and double-spreader rig, which contribute to its overall speed and agility in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Tartan 33 R was designed with a focus on performance, its interior offers functional and well-finished accommodations suitable for cruising. The interior joiner work is generally described as beautiful, contributing to a functional layout typical of yachts of its era. Though specific headroom details are not widely documented, Tartan interiors are known for their thoughtful design. Owners can expect a classic layout featuring a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. While perhaps not as spacious as pure cruisers of a similar length, the Tartan 33 R provides the standard amenities necessary for coastal cruising or weekend trips, with a focus on quality materials and craftsmanship consistent with Tartan's reputation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tartan yachts, including the 33 R, often form tight-knit communities, sharing insights and experiences, which speaks to the brand's enduring appeal. Common strengths frequently highlighted by owners include the boat's solid construction and overall durability, a hallmark of Tartan's manufacturing quality. The 33 R specifically is lauded for its impressive sailing performance and responsive handling, making it a rewarding vessel for those who appreciate spirited sailing. However, like many boats of its vintage, potential owners may need to be mindful of common maintenance items. While Tartan is not known for systemic fiberglass problems, some owners of the Tartan 33 have noted that the rudder might require attention or repair due to cracking over time. These considerations are typical for well-loved boats of this age and are often addressed through the active owner communities that support the Tartan brand.