CT -65 / Scorpio 72 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

At sea, the CT-65 and Scorpio 72 behave with the predictable, rhythmic motion of a vessel weighing upwards of 80,000 pounds. These are not light-air performers; they require a significant breeze to overcome their massive wetted surface area. However, once the wind exceeds 15 knots, the heavy-displacement hull settles into its groove, providing a stable platform that minimizes the fatigue often felt on lighter, modern fin-keel boats. The ketch rig is the most common configuration, offering a versatile sail plan that allows owners to "shorten down" by dropping the mainsail while maintaining balance under a jib and mizzen.

The tracking is exceptionally steady due to the long modified-fin keel and protected rudder, making them ideal for long-distance trade-wind passages. However, this directional stability comes at the cost of maneuverability in tight quarters. Owners frequently report that these vessels have a massive turning radius, and the high freeboard creates significant windage, making a powerful bow thruster an essential modification for modern docking. When powered by a large diesel engine—often a Perkins or Cummins—the boat functions effectively as a motorsailer, maintaining 8 to 9 knots through heavy chop that would stop smaller vessels in their tracks.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of a Ta Chiao 65 or Scorpio 72 is a masterclass in traditional Asian craftsmanship, characterized by vast expanses of hand-carved teak and holly. The "Great Cabin" aft is the hallmark of the design, usually featuring a king-sized berth, a dedicated vanity, and large windows (or "windows in the transom" on the 65) that provide views rarely found on sailing yachts. The Scorpio 72 variant often modified this space to include a more integrated swim platform access, whereas the CT-65 maintained a more traditional clipper-style stern.

The layout typically includes four to five guest cabins, each with an en-suite head, reflecting the boat's dual life as a private cruiser and a high-end charter vessel. The salon is usually raised (a deck-salon configuration), allowing for natural light to flood the living area, which is a significant departure from the "basement" feel of earlier 1970s designs. Storage is exhaustive, designed for months of self-sufficiency at sea. However, the sheer volume of wood requires a dedicated maintenance schedule to prevent the interior from feeling dark or dated.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the CT-65/Scorpio 72 hasn't reached the "cult" status of the CT-41 in cinema, it is a staple of the Mediterranean and Caribbean charter fleets. Several Scorpio 72s have gained notoriety for their longevity in the charter industry, with some hulls logging hundreds of thousands of nautical miles over decades of service. Because of their classic lines and impressive scale, they are frequently utilized in high-end nautical photography and lifestyle media to represent the "luxury yachting" ideal.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach these vessels with a rigorous inspection protocol, as the complexity of their systems and the materials used in construction present specific challenges:

• Teak Deck Integrity: These boats featured massive teak decks, often fastened with thousands of screws. Over time, the bungs wear down, and the caulking fails, allowing water to penetrate the sub-deck. A moisture meter test of the deck core is the most critical step in any survey.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original tanks were often made of mild steel (for fuel) or stainless steel, frequently "built-in" to the hull structure. Replacing these tanks often requires cutting into the teak cabinetry or even the cabin sole, representing a massive expense.
• Chainplates and Rigging: Given the age and the heavy loads of a ketch rig, the stainless steel chainplates must be inspected for crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck.
• Pervasive "Taiwanese" Electricals: Original wiring in many Ta Chiao builds was not always up to modern ABYC standards. Buyers should look for boats that have undergone a full professional DC/AC rewiring to handle modern electronics and high-load appliances like watermakers and air conditioning.
• Osmotic Blistering: Like many hulls from this era, some CT-65s have shown a tendency for hull blistering. While rarely structural, a bottom peel and epoxy treatment are common requirements for older hulls.

Community & Resources

Owners of these vessels typically find support through broader Taiwanese boat-building communities. The Ta Chiao shipyard itself remains a point of reference for historical data, and the company maintains a presence at Ta Chiao Yacht, where they detail their transition from classic sailing yachts to modern power vessels. Additionally, specialized technical groups such as the Robert Perry Fan Club (while Perry did not design the 65 specifically, his influence on the yard is a frequent topic) provide a venue for discussing the maintenance of these complex vessels.

The Verdict

The CT-65 and Scorpio 72 are "forever boats" for sailors who prioritize comfort, safety, and a commanding presence over speed and agility. They are best suited for liveaboard owners or those planning circumnavigations where the boat's mass provides security in heavy weather.

Pros:

• Exceptional sea-kindliness and heavy-weather stability.
• Unrivaled interior volume and artisanal teak craftsmanship.
• Flagship status and classic "yacht" aesthetic.
• The ketch rig provides numerous sail-plan options for short-handed crews.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for exterior teak and interior joinery.
• Difficult to maneuver in tight marinas without a bow thruster.
• Potential for high-cost "systemic" repairs (tanks and decks).
• High displacement leads to sluggish performance in light winds.