Tartan 3500 Information, Review, Specs

Conceived as an all-around performance cruiser, the Tartan 3500 appeals to sailors seeking a yacht capable of both spirited daysailing and comfortable extended voyages, a hallmark of Tartan's identity.

History and Design

The Tartan 3500 began its production run in 1993. As one of Tim Jackett's earlier designs for Tartan, it reflected his goals of achieving a harmonious balance between performance and family comfort. During this era, Tartan Yachts, under its established leadership, continued to embrace advanced construction techniques, including the use of fiberglass hulls and decks, and a focus on robust build quality, incorporating solid lead keels. While the standard configuration featured a deep fin keel drawing 6.5 feet, a shoal draft option was also available, reducing the draft to 4.83 feet, often referred to as a 'beaver tail' keel, providing versatility for shallower cruising grounds. Throughout its production, some Tartan 3500s were even equipped with carbon fiber spars, showcasing Tartan's innovative approach to composite technology.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 3500 delivers a spirited and capable sailing experience, a direct result of its well-conceived design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.5, she is poised to perform admirably in light air conditions, ensuring responsive acceleration and momentum even when winds are soft. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of nearly 40% indicates a high degree of stability and stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively and maintain an upright, comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 188 suggests a relatively light and performance-oriented cruiser, rather than a heavy displacement vessel.

These theoretical numbers translate into tangible on-water performance: the Tartan 3500 is widely regarded as a "nice sailing boat through a wide range of conditions". Sailors frequently describe her as "easily driven, responsive, and well mannered," often finding success in PHRF racing fleets across the country. While some reviews note that controls might be positioned a distance from the helmsman, requiring active crew participation, the boat's primary steering remains intuitive and effective.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tartan 3500 is designed to maximize living space, making it an appealing choice for couples or small families. The layout typically features two large double berths, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements. The main saloon is thoughtfully arranged with angled settees that offer ample seating for entertaining or dining. On many 3500s, the saloon is finished with cherry wood, contributing to a warm and traditional aesthetic.

Overall, the interior layout, design, and appearance are considered a significant attraction of the vessel. While the specific maximum headroom is not consistently detailed, owners generally praise the effective use of space and the quality of finishes, though some isolated observations have noted that the fit and finish of interior joiner work on certain boats did not always meet Tartan's consistently high standards.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Tartan 3500 for its solid construction and its ability to hold its long-term value. The collective sentiment highlights the boat's excellent all-around performance and comfortable motion, reinforcing its appeal as a versatile performance cruiser.

However, like any yacht, the Tartan 3500 has a few commonly noted areas of concern. Owners have reported instances of leaks around the forward hatch, and swelling rudder bearings have also been mentioned. Additionally, some early models built with epoxy (before Tartan's full transition or with specific material compatibility issues) reportedly developed premature deck crazing. Earlier models also placed batteries inconveniently under the V-berth. Despite these occasional issues, the strong sense of community among Tartan owners, fostered by groups like the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), often provides valuable resources and shared experiences for addressing maintenance and enjoying the enduring qualities of these yachts.