Tartan 4400 Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 4400 commenced production in 2002, emerging as a contemporary offering from a builder with a long-standing tradition of innovation. Designer Tim Jackett's philosophy for the 4400 was to create a large vessel that remained exciting and easy to sail, clearly emphasizing the "racer" in the racer/cruiser category. This design intent aligned perfectly with Tartan Yachts' broader ethos of producing high-quality yachts known for their robust build and performance.

Throughout its history, Tartan has consistently embraced advanced materials and construction techniques, a commitment evident in the 4400. The company utilized infused BPA modified epoxy for hulls and decks, alongside the integration of lightweight carbon fiber for the standard mast, though aluminum was offered as an option. This dedication to advanced composites ensured exceptional strength, stiffness, and durability, contributing to the yacht's "heirloom quality" reputation. While specific variations like MkI or MkII models are not widely documented, individual boats could feature personalized interior layouts, such as a three-cabin, two-head configuration, underscoring the builder's flexibility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 4400 exhibits performance numbers indicative of a capable and responsive cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio of 18.0, she demonstrates good potential for performance, particularly in lighter air. Her ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.375 suggests a boat with good stiffness, enabling her to stand up to a breeze and provide a stable platform. Further emphasizing her balanced design, the displacement to length ratio of around 203 indicates a moderate displacement yacht, known for blending respectable speed with comfortable motion.

Reviewers have described the Tartan 4400 as a boat that is both exciting and easy to sail, showcasing moderate to fast performance characteristics. Her hull design, featuring a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, contributes to agile handling and responsiveness under sail. With a calculated maximum hull speed of approximately 8.21 knots, the 4400 is designed to cover ground efficiently, making her well-suited for both coastal cruising and longer passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently documented, the interior of the Tartan 4400 is widely regarded as a "gem," offering an abundance of comfort and convenience. The deck-saloon design is a prominent feature, contributing to a bright and airy main salon. Interiors typically feature high-quality craftsmanship, with furnishings built by skilled artisans.

Common interior arrangements can include a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and multiple cabins. Owners have customized layouts, with some 4400s featuring a three-cabin, two-head configuration. Details like four inches of insulation under the freezer indicate a thoughtful approach to liveability for extended periods. The emphasis is on providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living space, designed for the discerning cruising sailor.

Owner's Perspectives

Tartan owners, including those of the 4400, often express strong loyalty to the brand, enjoying a sense of community through active groups like the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club and the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE). Owners generally appreciate the robust construction and overall quality inherent in Tartan yachts.

While the 4400 is highly regarded, some owners have noted specific operational quirks, such as issues with the fuel vent/hose leading to difficulties when filling the diesel tank. More general issues reported across the Tartan line, such as potential galvanic corrosion in aluminum steel plates or occasionally dark galleys, are aspects that prospective owners of any Tartan boat might investigate, though these are not necessarily specific recurring problems for every 4400. Overall, owners frequently praise the 4400 for its solid build, comfortable motion, and enjoyable sailing characteristics.