Tartan 4100 Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 4100 commenced production in 1996, emerging during a period where Tartan Yachts, under the guidance of chief designer Tim Jackett, was known for its "heirloom quality" yachts. Jackett's primary goals for his designs, including the 4100, consistently emphasized good upwind performance, a comfortable motion through the water, and overall strength. This aligns perfectly with Tartan's manufacturing ethos of utilizing advanced materials and construction techniques, such as infused BPA modified epoxy for hulls and decks, ensuring exceptional stiffness and durability.

During its production run, the Tartan 4100 was offered with several keel configurations to suit diverse sailing needs. Beyond the standard deep fin keel, sailors could opt for a moderate draft beavertail bulb keel or a shoal draft with a centerboard, providing flexibility for different cruising grounds and performance preferences. This range of options highlights Tartan's dedication to customizing their high-quality vessels for individual owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 4100 is celebrated for its impressive sailing performance and balanced handling, a hallmark of Tim Jackett's designs. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.23, the 4100 demonstrates excellent light-air performance, allowing it to move efficiently in lighter breezes. Its displacement to length ratio, around 185.6 for the standard version, further indicates a relatively light and performance-oriented hull form, designed to minimize pounding when motoring into a chop and maintain speed.

The boat's stability and stiffness vary depending on the keel option. The standard model, with a ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.337, offers moderate stability suitable for comfortable cruising. For those seeking enhanced stiffness and the ability to stand up to more wind, the beavertail keel option increases the ballast to displacement ratio to roughly 0.392, while the keel/centerboard version pushes this ratio to approximately 0.409, providing robust stability in demanding conditions. Owners and reviewers often praise the 4100 for its speed and agility under sail, noting its ease of handling even with a short-handed crew.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Tartan 4100 provides comfortable and spacious accommodations, reflecting its design as a capable performance cruiser. The main cabin boasts a generous headroom of 6 feet 5 inches, ensuring comfort for taller individuals. The interior layout typically features two private double-berth staterooms and a single head, often with a walk-through configuration. Owners could choose between teak or cherry finishes, complemented by a classic teak and holly sole, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Cedar-lined lockers throughout the vessel speak to the meticulous attention to detail and quality expected from Tartan.

The general arrangement includes a well-appointed galley and a comfortable salon area, designed for extended cruising. While the cockpit, though well-equipped for efficient sail handling, is noted by some to be somewhat tight by modern standards, the overall interior space and finish quality remain highly regarded. Ample storage is a consistent feature, contributing to the boat's liveability on longer voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tartan 4100 consistently express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently praising the yacht's solid construction and its comfortable motion in a seaway. The strong emphasis on "heirloom quality" from the builder resonates with owners who value durability and craftsmanship. The sailing community for Tartan yachts, including active groups like the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), further underscores the brand's loyalty and provides a valuable resource for shared experiences and maintenance tips.

While generally well-regarded, some common points of discussion among owners include the design of foam-cored fiberglass rudders with stainless steel rudderstocks, which can be prone to water intrusion over time and require careful sealing. Additionally, issues related to systems like the swim platform motor may arise on older models, necessitating replacement or alternative solutions. Despite these minor considerations, the Tartan 4100 maintains a strong reputation for offering a superb blend of performance and cruising comfort, making it a highly desirable sailboat on the used market.