Tartan 3400/345 Information, Review, Specs

The transition from the 3400 to the 345 designation reflects Tartan’s continuous refinement of their product line. While both boats share the same hull lines and core performance DNA, the 345 integrated many of the brand’s newer manufacturing standards, including refined interior woodwork and updated systems. Both iterations are defined by their vacuum-infused epoxy hulls and Corecell foam cores, a construction method that yields a hull significantly lighter and stiffer than traditional hand-laid polyester fiberglass. This commitment to epoxy resin, which is more resistant to osmotic blistering and provides a higher strength-to-weight ratio, remains a cornerstone of the Tartan Yachts build philosophy.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tartan 3400/345 is renowned for a "sweet" helm and an ability to maintain momentum in light air that many cruisers in this size range lack. Central to this performance is the Cruise Control Rig (CCR). This configuration features a high-aspect, self-tacking jib for effortless upwind work and a larger, masthead-reaching sail (often a 150% genoa or a Code 0) on a dedicated furler for off-wind performance. As noted in editorial reviews by Sail Magazine, this setup allows the boat to be handled easily by a couple or even a solo sailor, as the self-tacking jib eliminates the need for winching during tacks.

With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio typically in the 180-190 range, the 3400 is light enough to be responsive but possesses enough ballast to feel secure when the breeze freshens. The standard carbon fiber mast is a standout feature in this class; by reducing weight aloft, Tartan has lowered the boat’s center of gravity, resulting in a vessel that is stiffer and more resistant to heeling than competitors with aluminum spars. Owners frequently report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal input from the autopilot even when pushed.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Tartan 3400/345 punches above its weight class, offering an ambiance of "yacht-grade" luxury typically reserved for larger vessels. The layout is a classic two-cabin configuration: a V-berth forward and a large double cabin tucked under the cockpit to the rear. The use of American cherry wood, often finished to a high luster, creates a warm, traditional aesthetic that contrasts with the high-tech exterior.

The 3400 features a linear galley to starboard and a U-shaped settee to port, while the 345 refined these areas with updated hardware and lighting. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6'4" in the main salon, which is a significant achievement for a 34-foot hull. One of the notable variations across the production run is the keel configuration; buyers could choose between a deep fin keel for maximum performance or a Beavertail bulb keel for thinner waters, the latter being particularly popular on the US East Coast. The 345 also saw the introduction of more modern "all-LED" lighting packages and updated upholstery options, though the foundational layout remained largely unchanged due to its efficiency.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Tartan 3400/345 is a premium build, there are specific areas potential buyers should investigate during a survey:

• Carbon Fiber Spar Maintenance: The carbon fiber mast is a performance asset, but the clear coat or paint can degrade over time due to UV exposure. Buyers should check for "alligatoring" or peeling of the finish, as re-painting a carbon mast is a specialized and costly labor-intensive process.
• Chainplate Bedding: Common to many Tartans of this era, the chainplates are robust but require periodic re-bedding. Moisture ingress at the deck joint can lead to staining on the interior cherry bulkheads.
• Epoxy Hull Integrity: While the vacuum-infused epoxy hull is superior to polyester, any "shorthanded" repairs done by previous owners using standard polyester resin will not bond correctly. It is essential to ensure that any hull repairs were performed using epoxy-compatible materials.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: On high-mileage examples, the rudder bearings may develop play. This is often felt as a slight "click" or vibration in the helm when the boat is loaded up on a reach.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel. While often just a cosmetic crack in the fairing compound, it can sometimes indicate the need for tightening keel bolts to the factory-specified torque.

Community & Resources

The Tartan owner community is exceptionally active, providing a wealth of technical knowledge for the 3400/345. The most prominent organization is the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE), which hosts regular rendezvous and maintains a technical archive of owner-led modifications and maintenance tips. Additionally, the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club serves owners in the mid-Atlantic, offering a platform for shared cruising information and model-specific advice.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Advanced Construction: The epoxy-infused hull and carbon fiber mast provide a performance edge and longevity that few 34-footers can match.
• Ease of Handling: The Cruise Control Rig (CCR) with a self-tacking jib makes it one of the easiest boats in its class for short-handed sailing.
• High Resale Value: Tartan’s reputation for quality means these boats tend to depreciate more slowly than mass-produced alternatives.
• Interior Finish: The cherry wood joinery and overall fit-and-finish are of a caliber usually found on custom yachts.

Cons:

• Purchase Price: Even on the used market, the 3400/345 commands a significant premium over boats of a similar age and size.
• Sail Inventory Costs: Maintaining the specialized CCR sail plan (reacher + self-tacker) can be more expensive than a standard sloop rig.
• Specialized Maintenance: The carbon fiber spar and epoxy hull require technicians familiar with advanced composites rather than general fiberglass workers.