Costantini Tarann Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tarann was engineered as a pure-bred racer, characterized by a narrow beam and an ultra-light displacement relative to its waterline. Technical data from the era classifies the boat with a Displacement-Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 120, placing it firmly in the category of "ultra-light racers." This lightness, combined with a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 48%, results in a vessel that is exceptionally stiff and capable of resisting heeling even in stiff breezes.

With a Length-to-Beam (L/B) ratio of roughly 3.6, the hull is notably slim, a design choice by Gilles Costantini to prioritize speed and tracking over internal volume. On the water, the Tarann is described as a "bon marcheur" (a good walker/fast sailor), particularly in heavy weather, a reputation noted in retrospective accounts of the shipyard's output. However, its low Motion Comfort Ratio (estimated at 15.5) suggests a lively and potentially punishing motion in a seaway; this is not a heavy-displacement cruiser that "plows" through waves, but rather a nimble platform that reacts quickly to every gust and swell.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Consistent with its racing pedigree, the Tarann’s interior was secondary to its structural integrity and weight distribution. The original plywood hulls featured a functional, almost utilitarian layout designed for a racing crew or a focused solo navigator. Standard configurations typically included a modest galley and four to five berths, though the narrow hull significantly limited lateral living space.

The Tarann’s design influenced several sibling models and variants. Most notably, the Pen Duick II was essentially a "stretched" Tarann, extended to 13.6 meters and rigged as a ketch to make it manageable for a single sailor. According to BoatNews, Tabarly’s realization that he could handle a larger vessel came directly from his training on the Margilic V, the Tarann that served as his proof-of-concept. Other siblings built on the shipyard's plywood and composite philosophy include the smaller 7-meter Biniou and the later Costantini 30.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tarann is etched into maritime history through its association with Eric Tabarly. While Pen Duick II received the lion's share of international fame, the Tarann series is frequently cited in French nautical literature as the "training stable" for Tabarly’s 1964 transatlantic triumph. The boat’s role is extensively documented in historical retrospectives by the French magazine Bateaux, which has covered the Costantini shipyard’s contributions to naval architecture for over five decades.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners of a vintage Tarann must prioritize structural assessment over cosmetic appeal, given the specialized construction methods used by Chantier Naval Costantini.

• Plywood Delamination: Most Taranns were built using marine plywood. Over six decades, even the highest quality mahogany plywood is susceptible to rot, particularly at the chines, the stem, and around the chainplates where water may have compromised the epoxy or paint seal.
• Keel Attachment: The Tarann often featured a torpedo-style keel designed for a low center of gravity. Inspections should focus on the "deadwood" area and the keel bolts, as the high leverage of this racing keel can stress the hull-to-keel joint during groundings.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls were plywood, later versions or deck sections sometimes utilized early composite techniques. Soft spots around the mast step or cockpit soles are common "gotchas" in French boats of this vintage.
• Rigging Loads: Because the Tarann is a stiff, light boat, the rigging loads are high for its size. Check for "oil-canning" (flexing) in the hull sides near the shroud terminals, which can indicate that the internal reinforcements are weakening.

The Verdict

The Costantini Tarann is a "sailor’s sailboat," offering a direct link to the golden age of French offshore racing. It is a vessel for the purist who values history and agility over the creature comforts of modern production cruisers.

Pros

• Exceptional Pedigree: Direct lineage to Eric Tabarly and the Pen Duick legacy.
• High Performance: Extremely stiff and fast, particularly upwind in a breeze.
• Handcrafted Quality: Built by one of France's most innovative mid-century shipyards.

Cons

• Maintenance Intensive: Plywood hulls require vigilant protection against moisture and rot.
• Cramped Living: Narrow beam makes the interior feel tight compared to modern 30-footers.
• Lively Motion: The low motion comfort ratio may be tiring on long passages for those used to heavier hulls.