Tartan 40 Offshore Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 40 Offshore, designated as Sparkman & Stephens design #2481, began production in 1976. With only 30 units built, its production run was relatively limited, underscoring its niche as a serious offshore cruiser. During this era, Tartan Marine, under the leadership of Charles Britton, was celebrated for its pioneering use of fiberglass construction and a manufacturing ethos focused on durability and performance, striving to produce "heirloom quality" yachts.

Sparkman & Stephens, the designers behind the Tartan 40 Offshore, were known for their classic and often performance-oriented designs, and this model continued that tradition with a strong emphasis on offshore capability. While specific design philosophies for this model emphasized its cruising ketch configuration, offering a versatile sail plan suitable for various conditions, the boat also had a "Racing Rig Sail Plan" created in 1984, suggesting its adaptability. The hull was constructed from solid fiberglass, consistent with Tartan's reputation for robust build quality, incorporating advanced deck construction techniques that contributed to exceptional strength and stiffness, 1].

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 40 Offshore's design ratios paint a picture of a well-balanced, capable cruising vessel rather than a light-displacement racer. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.30, she is indicative of a heavier, more comfortable cruiser, suggesting steady performance without being overly sensitive in light airs.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.38 signifies good stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up to significant wind without excessive heel. This characteristic is crucial for comfortable and safe offshore passages. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 249 places her squarely in the moderate displacement category, indicating a balanced design capable of carrying necessary cruising gear while maintaining a respectable turn of speed.

Anecdotal accounts and reviews reinforce these interpretations, describing the Tartan 40 Offshore as a "basic blue water boat that really works in a variety of offshore conditions". Owners and reviewers often praise its performance as a "performance cruiser," noting its ability to handle diverse sea states with confidence. The ketch rig offers flexibility in sail configuration, allowing for easier management in changing winds. For those venturing further offshore, the mast would benefit from an inner forestay and runners to further support the upper sections.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tartan 40 Offshore is designed for comfortable extended cruising, offering layouts that prioritize space and functionality. While specific headroom figures are not always readily available, the vessel is known for its elegant and well-thought-out living spaces, which are praised for their suitability for offshore runs.

Typically, the accommodations feature a large, open cabin that provides generous space, often described as having luxurious appointments for comfort. Common configurations include two staterooms and a single head, making it ideal for cruising destinations like Florida and the Bahamas. When new, the boat was available with up to three different accommodation plans, offering some customization to suit owner preferences. Interior features often include a functional galley, with some owners installing modern conveniences such as microwaves and watermakers for self-sufficiency during extended voyages. The general finish quality aligns with Tartan's "heirloom quality" reputation, featuring durable materials and meticulous craftsmanship throughout the cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tartan 40 Offshore consistently express high regard for the vessel, often praising its robust construction, inherent safety, and longevity. The strong sense of community among Tartan owners, as fostered by groups like the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), further underscores the brand's enduring appeal and the loyalty it commands. This sentiment often translates into owners retaining their boats for extended periods, suggesting deep satisfaction with their Tartan 40 Offshore.

While general Tartan models have been noted for potential issues like galvanic corrosion in aluminum steel plates or aging outer hull layers, and some galleys might be considered narrow or dark, these are general observations and not specific to every Tartan 40 Offshore. Common discussions among owners revolve around typical maintenance and upgrade considerations for older vessels, such as engine repowering, with Universal M-40 engines often being replaced by modern alternatives like Beta diesels. Owners typically conduct thorough pre-purchase surveys to address any specific issues related to individual boats.