Tartan 4700 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Tartan 4700’s performance is its Solent-style CCR rig. This configuration features a carbon fiber mast—which reduces weight aloft and minimizes pitching—paired with a self-tacking jib for upwind work and a large, reaching genoa (or "reacher") set on a permanent furler just forward of the forestay. This setup allows a short-handed couple to transition from a close-hauled beat to a broad reach without leaving the cockpit or struggling with heavy sail changes.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the moderate-heavy side, the 4700 provides a stable, "big boat" feel in a seaway. However, the use of epoxy and a high-aspect rudder ensures the boat remains responsive. According to editorial testing by Sail Magazine, the yacht tracks exceptionally well, benefiting from a lead keel that provides a low center of gravity. The Sail Area/Displacement ratio is high enough to keep the boat moving in light air, particularly when the reacher is deployed, yet the stiffness of the epoxy hull allows it to carry sail longer than its competitors before needing a reef. Owners often report that the boat feels "powered up" at 10 knots of breeze but remains manageable and dry when the whitecaps appear.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Tartan 4700 is characterized by Tartan’s signature North American cherry joinery, which is hand-fitted and finished with high-gloss or satin varnish. The layout was primarily offered in two main configurations: a two-cabin "owner’s" layout and a three-cabin version for those sailing with larger crews or families. In both versions, the master suite is located forward, featuring a centerline queen berth and a private head with a dedicated stall shower.

The salon is expansive, utilizing the boat’s nearly 14-foot beam to create a social area that feels larger than many 50-footers. A significant variation found in some hulls is the choice of the "Nav Station" size; some owners opted for a full-sized desk for offshore planning, while others preferred a smaller station to maximize seating. The galley is a sea-going U-shape, typically located to starboard, providing secure bracing for the cook while underway. Because the 4700 was often built to order, minor woodwork variations and equipment specifications (such as generator placement) can vary between individual hulls, though the fundamental structural bulkheads remain consistent across the series.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tartan 4700 should focus their inspection on the specific technologies that make the boat unique. While the epoxy hull is highly resistant to osmotic blistering, the deck is balsa-cored. Like any high-end yacht, moisture ingress around improperly bedded deck hardware is a primary concern; a moisture meter survey is essential for the cockpit sole and side decks.

The carbon fiber mast, while a performance boon, requires specialized inspection. Buyers should look for signs of galvanic corrosion where aluminum or stainless steel fittings meet the carbon spar, as well as checking the condition of the clear coat, which can degrade under intense UV exposure. Additionally, the CCR rig’s complexity means the furling systems and the self-tacking jib track should be tested under load to ensure they operate smoothly. On the mechanical side, some owners have noted that the engine room insulation, while high-quality, can become heavy or sag over time, requiring new adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Finally, the spade rudder bearings should be checked for "slop" or play, a common maintenance item on performance cruisers of this vintage.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Tartan 4700 benefit from one of the most dedicated owner networks in the United States. The Tartan Yachts factory continues to provide support and parts for older models, a rarity in the industry. For technical discussions and regional rallies, the Tartan Owners Northeast (TONE) and the Chesapeake Bay Tartan Sailing Club are the primary hubs of activity. These groups maintain extensive archives of manual updates and "hacks" for the CCR rig, which are invaluable for those transitioning from traditional sloop rigs to the Solent configuration.

The Verdict

The Tartan 4700 is an "investment-grade" cruiser that offers a rare blend of advanced composite engineering and traditional craftsmanship. It is best suited for the experienced sailor who appreciates the nuance of a carbon rig and the longevity of an epoxy hull.

Pros:

• Advanced epoxy construction provides superior strength-to-weight ratio.
• The CCR rig makes short-handed offshore sailing remarkably easy.
• Exceptional interior joinery that maintains its value over time.
• Strong factory support and a vibrant owner community.

Cons:

• Complexity of the Solent rig requires a steeper learning curve for sail trim.
• Carbon fiber spars require more specialized (and expensive) inspections.
• Premium pricing on the used market compared to mass-production polyester alternatives.