Tartan 245 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tartan 245 is characterized by its responsiveness and stability, even in challenging conditions. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of 113 and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 22.3, the boat is decidedly "zippy" but remains manageable for novices. During sea trials conducted by Tartan Yachts, the boat demonstrated an ability to tack through less than 90 degrees and reached speeds of 6.8 to 7.4 knots in a 15-knot breeze.

The hull features a fine V-shaped entry and a clean underwater profile that allows it to track confidently. According to tests featured in Sailing Magazine, the boat handles whitecaps and heavier winds—up to 23 knots—without losing its composure. A significant part of its performance profile is the standard carbon-fiber mast and boom, which reduce weight aloft to minimize heeling. The inclusion of a lifting keel with a 900-pound lead bulb provides a low center of gravity for safety while allowing the draft to be reduced from 4 feet 6 inches to just 1 foot 8 inches for beaching or trailering.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Tartan 245 is primarily a daysailer, it features a functional "limited cuddy cabin" designed for gear storage and occasional overnights. The interior includes a V-berth large enough for two adults and a small counter area equipped with a freshwater sink. High-quality finishes, such as solid cherry wood trim and LED lighting, maintain the "heirloom" feel typical of larger Tartans.

The cabin layout is dominated by the keel trunk, which occupies the central floor space, but the design provides enough sitting headroom to accommodate a portable head. Cruising World notes that the interior is primarily intended for stashing sails and duffels or for "sporty cruising" with a close companion. Variation in the model's deck layout includes an optional self-tacking jib and a retractable carbon-fiber bowsprit for flying an asymmetrical spinnaker, which significantly increases downwind speed to 11 knots or more.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tartan 245 gained significant industry recognition shortly after its release, being named a winner in Sailing World’s Boat of the Year 2022 awards. It is frequently cited as a premier choice for adaptive sailing programs due to its stable cockpit design and ease of access. The boat has also become a staple at the Annapolis Sailing School, where it replaced older fleets to provide students with a modern, responsive platform that utilizes carbon-fiber spars and contemporary rig controls.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

As a relatively modern design, the Tartan 245 does not suffer from the legacy issues of older 1970s models, but there are specific technical areas to monitor:

• Lifting Keel Pennant: Inspect the lifting line and attachment points for signs of chafe or corrosion. Because the keel is lifted via a bridle system, ensuring the integrity of the line is critical for safe trailering and shallow-water operation.
• Rudder Cassette Alignment: The rudder sits in a wedge-shaped cassette and is secured with pins. Check that these pins are seated correctly and that the kick-up mechanism functions smoothly without excessive play in the cassette.
• Deck Cutout Modifications: Early hulls (specifically Hull #01) underwent a minor modification to a deck cutout detail near the companionway. Buyers of very early models should check for this factory-sanctioned update to prevent potential head-strike hazards.
• Rigging Tensions: The carbon rig is exceptionally stiff. Owners on various technical forums have noted that finding the "sweet spot" for shroud tension is essential for keeping the forestay tight without overstressing the deck-stepped mast hinge.

Community & Resources

Owners and fans of the 245 are supported by the broader Tartan community, including the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) and the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club. Technical documentation and original hull lines can be sourced through the manufacturer's dedicated site for the Caraluna 245 project.

The Verdict

The Tartan 245 is an expertly engineered daysailer that offers the build quality of a luxury yacht in a trailerable, 24-foot package.

Pros:

• High-end construction featuring carbon-fiber spars and infused epoxy.
• Excellent performance-to-stability ratio suitable for both racing and teaching.
• Versatile lifting keel and kick-up rudder for shallow-water exploring.
• Retains high resale value due to the Tartan "heirloom" pedigree.

Cons:

• Cabin space is severely restricted by the keel trunk.
• Significantly higher initial price point than many 24-foot competitors.
• Manual stepping of the carbon rig, while easier than aluminum, still requires a two-person team for safety.