Tartan 455 Information, Review, Specs

The Tartan 455 entered production in 2020 and remains a current offering in the builder's lineup. Its design ethos, articulated by Tim Jackett, arose from extensive input from existing Tartan owners and thousands of accumulated sailing miles, aiming to enhance the overall boating experience. Jackett expanded on his earlier designs, integrating suggestions and insights to create a modern deckhouse sloop that evolved in part from Legacy powerboats, a company Tartan acquired. This approach underscores Tartan's continuous commitment to innovative design and utilizing cutting-edge technologies. True to Tartan's "heirloom quality" reputation, the 455 benefits from advanced construction techniques such as infused BPA modified epoxy for hulls and decks, and the integration of carbon fiber for masts and booms, techniques that Tartan has continuously evolved since the 1960s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 455 boasts dimensions of 45.5 feet overall length and a waterline length of 39.5 feet, with a generous beam of 14.08 feet and a maximum draft of 6.5 feet. This configuration, coupled with a displacement of 25,750 pounds and a solid lead bulb keel weighing 9,750 pounds, contributes to its robust performance.

Interpreting its performance ratios reveals a capable and balanced vessel. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.93, the Tartan 455 suggests good performance for a cruising yacht, indicating a responsiveness in lighter winds while still being manageable when conditions stiffen. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 0.378 (37.8%) indicates solid stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 186.6 places the 455 in the lighter-displacement category for its length, hinting at a more performance-oriented design compared to heavier, traditional cruisers. Anecdotal accounts from reviewers consistently praise the Tartan 455 for sailing "exceedingly well," offering "powerful sailing" and even being described as sailing "like a witch," highlighting its engaging and capable handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tartan 455 is designed for comfort and practicality, with the main cabin living spaces situated just three steps down from the deckhouse, creating a cohesive flow between interior and exterior areas. The yacht is offered in both two- and three-cabin layouts, each featuring two heads, providing flexibility for different owner needs and guest accommodations. The owner's cabin is typically located forward. While specific maximum headroom details are not provided in the structured data, the overall design emphasizes spaciousness. The interior joinery is noted to be available in North American wood, reflecting Tartan's commitment to quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, consistent with their reputation for "heirloom quality" yachts. These elements combine to create a comfortable and well-appointed living environment below deck.