Tartan 4600 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Tartan 4600 emerged from Tartan Yachts' production line, with its first models launched in 1990 and manufacturing continuing through 2001. As chief designer for Tartan, Tim Jackett played a significant role in shaping the modern aesthetic and performance of the company's yachts. Tartan's foundational design philosophy, established since its inception, has always centered on innovative design and handcrafted construction, with a keen focus on performance in all aspects. The builder's commitment to advanced materials and techniques, including the use of infused BPA modified epoxy for hulls and decks, underpins the robust quality seen in vessels like the 4600. While largely consistent in its design, the Tartan 4600 offered variations in keel configuration, including a shallow draft 'beaver tail' keel of 5.50 feet or a keel/centerboard option allowing for a draft ranging from 4.80 feet (board up) to 9.00 feet (board down).

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tartan 4600 is widely regarded as a performance cruiser capable of sliding through the water with ease. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.46, she offers respectable performance, particularly in moderate conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 200.6 indicates a moderately heavy displacement vessel, providing a comfortable motion in a seaway, characteristic of a capable cruiser. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of roughly 0.30 suggests a solid, stable boat, though perhaps not as stiff as those with a higher ballast percentage, still offering reliable handling. Equipped with a fin keel and a spade rudder, the Tartan 4600 is noted for its good balance and responsiveness under sail. Her hull speed is calculated at 8.43 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Tartan 4600 is thoughtfully designed and built to high standards, providing comfortable accommodations for its crew. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently listed, the general sentiment from owners and listings points to a spacious and well-appointed cabin. Many Tartan 4600s feature a two-cabin interior plan, often highlighted by a forward owner's suite with a centerline queen berth and an en-suite head. The galley typically comes equipped with a microwave and a four-burner propane stove/oven. The interior finish commonly features handcrafted teak joinery and wooden furnishings, contributing to a warm and traditional nautical aesthetic. The vessel is equipped with a substantial 150-gallon water capacity and a 70-gallon diesel fuel capacity, supporting extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Tartan yachts, including the 4600, often praise the brand's solid construction and the comfortable motion of their boats in a seaway, aligning with Tartan's reputation for "heirloom quality" vessels. The Tartan 4600 is frequently described by owners as a well-rounded and reliable cruiser that offers a good balance of performance and comfort. While general discussions among Tartan owners may occasionally touch upon common issues like potential galvanic corrosion in aluminum steel plates or aging of the hull's outer layer, these are more general observations across the brand rather than specific, recurring problems exclusive to the 4600 model. The Tartan owner community is quite active, with groups such as the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) providing platforms for shared experiences and support, highlighting the enduring loyalty to the brand, 20].