Ta Chiao CT-56 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CT 56 is a heavy-displacement cruiser that finds its stride in "tradewind" conditions. With a displacement that typically exceeds 55,000 pounds, the vessel possesses significant momentum, providing a sea-kindly motion that minimizes the jarring "hobby-horsing" common in lighter, modern fin-keel boats. Its ketch rig is a primary performance feature, allowing the sail plan to be broken down into smaller, more manageable pieces—a critical advantage for a short-handed couple navigating a 56-foot vessel.

In terms of technical ratios, the CT 56 has a relatively low Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, often hovering around 15. This confirms what most owners report: the boat requires a stiff breeze (12–15 knots) to truly wake up. However, its long keel and heavy ballast-to-displacement ratio ensure it tracks exceptionally well on a reach. It is not a boat designed for pointing high into the wind, as the windward performance is hampered by its significant wetted surface and windage. Instead, it is a powerhouse on a broad reach or run, where the ketch rig allows for a versatile configuration of mizzen and staysails to balance the helm perfectly.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the CT 56 is a masterclass in traditional craftsmanship, characterized by an almost singular devotion to Burmese teak. The layout is typically centered around a cavernous "Great Cabin" aft, a hallmark of the Perry-designed CT series. This master suite often features a centerline queen-size berth, a private head with a bathtub or large shower, and extensive hanging lockers.

The main salon is designed for social gathering, featuring a large U-shaped settee and a professional-grade navigation station. Because these boats were often semi-customized for their original owners, variations exist. Some models feature a four-cabin layout to accommodate chartering or large families, while others optimize the space for two couples, providing two massive en-suite cabins. The galley is almost always "sea-safe," designed in a U-shape or longitudinal configuration that allows the cook to remain braced while the vessel is heeled. The headroom throughout the vessel is generous, often exceeding 6'5", which contributes to the open, airy feel despite the dark wood finishes.

The CT 56 is part of a specific hull family. Its closest sibling is the CT 54; the 56 often incorporates an extended transom or a modified stern to provide a larger aft deck and additional lazarette storage. It also shares DNA with the larger CT 65 (sometimes marketed as the Scorpio 72), which scaled the same design language up for the mega-yacht market of the time.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach the CT 56 with an understanding of the maintenance requirements inherent in 40-year-old Taiwanese builds.

• Teak Deck Longevity: Most CT 56s were built with thick teak decks screwed directly into a fiberglass and balsa (or plywood) core. Over decades, these screws can allow water to penetrate the core. A "bouncy" feel or brown streaks in the interior overhead are red flags for core saturation.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The original tanks were often made of black iron or low-grade stainless steel and were glassed into the hull structure. Replacing these is a "major surgery" project that often involves cutting out sections of the cabin sole or bulkheads.
• Stainless Steel Quality: During the late 70s and early 80s, the "316" stainless steel used in many Taiwanese yards varied in quality. Inspect chainplates, bow rollers, and stanchion bases for "crevice corrosion," which can lead to sudden structural failure.
• Masts and Rigging: Many CT 56s utilized sitka spruce or heavy aluminum masts. Owners on technical forums frequently note that the spreaders and mast steps are prone to rot (if wood) or electrolysis (if aluminum) and require a thorough aloft inspection.

Community & Resources

The CT 56 enjoys a dedicated following among bluewater traditionalists. Technical support and historical documentation are primarily curated by the Ta Chiao Owners Association, a group dedicated to preserving the legacy of the CT and Fantasia lines. While many owners interact through broader "Taiwan Turkey" interest groups, the specific technical knowledge regarding the Robert Perry-designed hulls is often archived in specialized design wikis and owner-maintained maintenance logs.

The Verdict

The Ta Chiao CT 56 is a "forever boat" for the right owner—one who values the aesthetic of a bygone era and the security of a heavy hull in a following sea. It is a vessel that demands a high maintenance budget but pays dividends in comfort and classic style.

Pros:

• Unmatched Interior Volume: A true live-aboard platform with a legendary master suite.
• Sea-Kindliness: Heavy displacement ensures a comfortable ride in heavy weather.
• Aesthetic Appeal: One of the most beautiful "clipper" profiles ever produced in fiberglass.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Extensive teak and aging systems require constant attention and investment.
• Light Air Performance: Struggles in light winds and does not point well to weather.
• Docking Difficulty: The long keel and high windage make maneuvering in tight marinas challenging without a powerful bow thruster.