Tartan 3800 Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 3800 entered production in 1994 and continued until 1999, during a period when Tartan Yachts was deeply committed to innovation in composite construction. The design, spearheaded by Chief Designer Tim Jackett, aimed to combine modern design principles with a respect for traditional yacht aesthetics. Jackett’s philosophy for the 3800 was to create a vessel capable of serious cruising, whether for coastal exploration or more challenging offshore passages.

Reflecting Tartan’s manufacturing ethos of the time, the 3800 was built to American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) standards, utilizing robust materials such as vinylester resin for the hull and deck. The construction featured solid lead keels and advanced deck building techniques, ensuring exceptional strength and durability. Both the hull and deck incorporated interior liners, a testament to the boat's thoughtful construction. The Tartan 3800 was offered with two primary keel options: a standard draft of 5.33 feet, often described as a "beavertail" keel, and a deeper, high-lift elliptical keel drawing 6.83 feet, providing options for different sailing grounds and performance preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 3800's design metrics point to a yacht that delivers a balanced and capable sailing experience. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.75, the 3800 is a moderately powered vessel, suggesting good performance in a variety of wind conditions without being overly tender. Its calculated Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of about 0.44 indicates a high degree of initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. This robust stability is further enhanced by its solid lead, bulb keel. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 240 places the Tartan 3800 in the moderate displacement category, signifying a good compromise between a lighter, more performance-oriented boat and a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to its "timeless well balanced offshore cruiser" reputation.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Tartan 3800 as very stable and stiff, possessing good righting capabilities. Even with the standard shoal-draft keel, the boat is noted for sailing very well. Its hull form, combined with a spade rudder, contributes to responsive handling and maneuverability, making it a joy to sail across various points of sail and in different sea states. The boat's hull speed is approximately 7.46 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tartan 3800 is characterized by a "rich, wonderful hand rubbed cherry interior" and a classic teak and holly sole, reflecting Tartan’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. Tartan's trademark teak joinery is evident throughout the cabin, contributing to a warm and traditional atmosphere.

While specific detailed layouts can vary, a typical arrangement for a cruiser of this size often includes a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious salon with opposing settees and a central dining table, a well-appointed galley, a navigation station, and an aft cabin, often with a double berth. Interior lighting is provided by brass cabin dome lights and berth directional lights, along with courtesy lighting. Storage is typically ample, designed to accommodate the needs of cruisers for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tartan 3800 consistently express high satisfaction, often referring to it as a "great boat, great make." The robust construction, comfortable motion offshore, and excellent sailing performance are frequently praised, aligning with Tartan's reputation for building "heirloom quality" yachts. The loyalty to the brand is evident through active owner groups, such as the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), fostering a strong community among owners., 12]

However, like many vessels of its age, the Tartan 3800 can present some common maintenance considerations. Some owners have noted issues with an aluminum steel plate being susceptible to galvanic corrosion and that, in some Tartan models, galleys can be perceived as dark and narrow. Recurring issues mentioned by some owners include bilge pump switch malfunctions and occasional engine overheating, though specific causes for the latter are not always detailed. Additionally, general to many older boats, but sometimes noted in Tartans, is the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks, often requiring re-bedding to ensure watertight integrity.