Sailing Performance & Handling
Under sail, the CT-49 behaves with the predictable, "train-on-tracks" motion typical of heavy-displacement cruisers. With a reported displacement of approximately 29,000 lbs and a ballast-to-displacement ratio near 41%, the hull is exceptionally stiff and capable of punching through a chop that would stall lighter vessels. Handling is often described as sea-kindly; however, it is a "motorsailer in the truest sense" for some owners, who find that the significant wetted surface area requires a stiff breeze to get the hull moving effectively.
The boat's tracking is a standout feature, a result of its long keel and balanced underwater profile. This was demonstrated by the CT-49 Orion, which famously completed the 1998 Baja Ha-Ha rally by sailing the entire course while many other participants resorted to motoring during light-air stretches. Owners often note that once the CT-49 gains momentum, its mass provides a sense of security and a comfortable motion that reduces crew fatigue on long passages.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the CT-49 is where the Ta Chiao yard's craftsmanship is most evident, featuring extensive hand-finished teak and a layout designed for long-term habitation. The "palace-like" feel described by those stepping below is supported by exceptional headroom, often exceeding 6'5" in the main saloon and reaching 6'1" even in the walk-through to the aft cabin. Most hulls feature a large aft master stateroom with a center-line "island" bed and an ensuite head, a luxury that was pioneering for its time.
Variations in the CT series often involve the rig and the cockpit configuration. While the CT-49 is most commonly found as a cutter, some custom orders and siblings like the CT-47 and CT-48 utilized similar hull molds but altered the stern or deckhouse profile. The CT-48, for example, shares much of the interior DNA but may feature different transom treatments. Owners have noted that Ta Chiao was willing to customize interiors, meaning two CT-49s may differ significantly in their galley layout or the presence of a dedicated navigation station versus additional bunk space.
Popular Mentions & Media
The CT-49 has maintained a low-profile but prestigious presence in the cruising community. Beyond the aforementioned performance of Orion in the Baja Ha-Ha, the model frequently appears in long-distance cruising logs, such as the Scintilla, which was featured in Pacific Puddle Jump profiles after decades of ownership and planned circumnavigation. These accounts consistently highlight the vessel’s reliability as a blue-water platform.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the CT-49 with a detailed maintenance budget, as the very features that make the boat attractive—teak and complex systems—are also its primary points of failure.
- Teak Deck Integrity: The classic "leaky teaky" reputation of 1970s and 80s Taiwanese builds is relevant here. Original teak decks were often fastened with thousands of screws through the fiberglass, creating numerous potential paths for water to reach the core. Inspection of the sub-deck for delamination is critical.
- Glassed-in Through-Hulls: Some owners have reported that Ta Chiao glassed over the through-hulls during construction, making replacement a labor-intensive task. Surveys should specifically check the condition of any original bronze fittings that may be approaching 40 years of service.
- Fuel Vent Placement: A documented design quirk involves fuel vents being routed through stanchion bases. This can lead to diesel spills on the teak side decks during refueling if not carefully monitored.
- Engine Access and Alignment: While the Ford Lehman engines typically found in these boats are reliable, the mid-ship engine placement can sometimes lead to alignment issues or difficult access for major repairs, such as transmission removal.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support is the CT Owners Association, a dedicated group of enthusiasts who share original drawings and refit advice. This community is essential for sourcing parts or understanding the specific laminating schedules used by the yard, which occasionally deviated from the naval architect's original specifications.
The Verdict
The Ta Chiao CT-49 is a robust, character-rich cruiser for the sailor who values traditional aesthetics and heavy-weather security over modern speed.
Pros:
- Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its class.
- Extremely stable and predictable motion in heavy seas.
- High-quality teak joinery that provides a warm, classic living environment.
Cons:
- High maintenance requirements due to extensive exterior wood and aging systems.
- Sluggish performance in light winds (less than 10-12 knots).
- Potential for significant deck repair costs if original teak has not been addressed.
