Tatoosh 51 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

True to the Robert Perry design ethos, the Tatoosh 51 features a modified fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration designed to balance directional stability with maneuverability. With a heavy displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio, the boat is remarkably "stiff," meaning it resists excessive heeling and maintains a steady gait even when the sea state becomes chaotic. This "sea-kindliness" is a hallmark of the Tatoosh series; the boat does not "hobby-horse" in a chop but rather punches through waves with significant momentum.

The cutter rig is the standard sail plan for the 51, providing a versatile array of gear for varying wind conditions. In heavy weather, the ability to fly a staysail while reefing the main keeps the center of effort low and balanced. While it is not a "light air flyer" due to its substantial wetted surface area, once the wind exceeds 12–15 knots, the Tatoosh 51 finds its stride. Owners frequently report that the vessel tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal input from an autopilot or wind vane during long stretches of downwind trade-wind sailing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Tatoosh 51 is a showcase of Ta Shing’s legendary teak joinery. Unlike modern mass-produced yachts that rely on liners and modular furniture, the 51 features hand-fitted cabinetry that is often structurally integrated into the hull. The layout typically centers around a large, semi-raised salon that provides excellent visibility and a sense of openness rarely found in older heavy-displacement designs.

The primary variation of the Tatoosh 51 involves the cabin configuration. Most were delivered with a three-cabin layout, featuring a sprawling master suite aft with a dedicated head and sit-down vanity. The "All Season" or pilot-house influence is occasionally seen in some hulls, providing an internal steering station or elevated navigation desk. The sibling Tatoosh 42 utilized a similar aesthetic but lacked the expansive engine room access and the sheer storage capacity found in the 51, which includes massive lockers suitable for circumnavigation-level provisioning.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tatoosh 51 should approach the survey with a focus on the common "Golden Age" Taiwanese build characteristics. While Ta Shing’s quality was superior to many of its regional competitors, the materials of the 1980s have specific lifespans.

• Teak Deck Integrity: Like many yachts of this era, the Tatoosh 51 originally featured thick teak decks fastened with screws. Over decades, the bungs can wear down and the bedding compound can fail, leading to moisture intrusion into the sub-deck. A thorough moisture meter test and percussion sounding are mandatory.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The 51 carries significant tankage, often constructed from stainless steel or iron. Because these are often located deep in the bilge or behind cabinetry, inspecting them for "pitting" or corrosion is difficult but necessary, as replacement often requires significant interior deconstruction.
• Chainplates: Robert Perry designs from this era often utilize heavy stainless steel chainplates. These should be pulled and inspected for crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck, as thirty years of salt exposure can compromise the alloy even if it looks polished on the surface.
• Stainless Steel Bleeding: While Ta Shing used high-quality 316 stainless steel, it is common to see "tea staining" or bleeding around stanchion bases and bow rollers, which may indicate the need for re-bedding to prevent core rot.

Community & Resources

The Tatoosh 51 is supported by a niche but dedicated community of offshore enthusiasts. The most prominent technical resource is the Robert H. Perry Fan Club, a community often engaged in by the designer himself, where technical drawings and design histories for the Tatoosh line are frequently discussed. Additionally, the Ta Shing Owners Group provides a platform for owners of all Ta Shing-built vessels (including Mason and Taswell owners) to share maintenance tips specific to the shipyard's unique plumbing and electrical schematics.

The Verdict

The Tatoosh 51 is an "honest" yacht—it does not pretend to be a racing machine, but it promises to keep its crew safe and comfortable in conditions that would turn back lighter vessels. It remains a premier choice for couples or families seeking a classic, high-volume cruiser with a pedigree of excellence.

• Pros:
  • Exceptional build quality from the world-renowned Ta Shing shipyard.
  • Superior heavy-weather handling and tracking thanks to the Perry hull form.
  • Stunning interior woodwork that modern builders struggle to replicate.
  • Enormous storage and tankage capacities for long-range cruising.
• Cons:
  • Maintenance-intensive exterior teak (if the original decks remain).
  • Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
  • High displacement makes it less maneuverable in tight, crowded marinas.
  • Rarity on the brokerage market can make finding a well-maintained example difficult.