Tayana 47 DS Information, Review, Specs

The model is built upon a hull that earned such a reputation for seaworthiness that it eventually transitioned into the Tayana 48. According to Robert H. Perry Yacht Designers, the hull was specifically engineered to balance the load-carrying capacity required for a cruising family with the performance metrics of a modern fin-keel voyager. The "DS" (Deck Saloon) designation signifies a raised coachroof that fundamentally alters the interior experience compared to the standard Tayana 47 or the aft-cockpit Tayana 48, making it a favorite for sailors who spend significant time in northern latitudes or who simply prefer to see the horizon from the galley.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tayana 47 DS is characterized by a "powerful yet predictable" motion in a seaway. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavier end of the performance-cruising spectrum, the boat is not a light-air flyer but excels when the breeze freshens. It utilizes a modified fin keel and a large, skeg-hung rudder, a configuration Robert Perry favored for its balance of maneuverability and protection against submerged debris.

Under sail, the 47 DS is typically rigged as a cutter. This provides a versatile sail plan that allows for easy reefing and balanced handling as the wind increases. Performance data and owner experiences suggest that the hull tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal helm correction even when pressed. The boat’s "sweet spot" is often cited as reaching in 15 to 25 knots of wind, where the moderate deadrise and well-distributed volume allow it to maintain a steady cadence through chop. While it lacks the surfing capabilities of modern flat-bottomed Mediterranean cruisers, it offers a secure, dry ride that reduces crew fatigue during multi-day passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary allure of the Tayana 47 DS is its interior volume and visibility. By raising the salon floor and increasing the height of the cabin house windows, Ta Yang created an environment that feels significantly larger than a traditional 47-footer. The layout typically features a large wraparound settee to port with an elevated view of the anchorage.

As a semi-custom builder, Ta Yang offered several configurations, though most 47 DS models are found in a two- or three-cabin arrangement. The master suite is almost universally located aft, featuring a centerline queen berth and a private head with a separate stall shower—a luxury at the time of its debut. The joinery is a hallmark of the shipyard, utilizing solid teak and high-quality veneers that are often superior to mass-produced European yachts of the same era.

The "sibling" relationship between the 47 DS and the Tayana 48 is vital for buyers to understand. The 48 is essentially the same hull but features a redesigned deck mold that includes an integrated swim platform, adding roughly a foot to the overall length without changing the underwater profile. The 47 DS, however, remains distinct for its taller "deck house" profile, which provides superior headroom and light compared to the sleeker 48 center-cockpit versions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective owners should approach a Tayana 47 DS with a focus on the specific maintenance requirements of high-quality Taiwanese builds from the 1990s.

• Teak Deck Integrity: Many 47 DS models were delivered with thick teak side decks. While aesthetically pleasing, these are typically screwed into the fiberglass-and-balsa core. Over decades, the bungs and caulking can fail, leading to moisture intrusion in the deck core. A professional moisture meter test is essential during the survey.
• Stainless Steel Consistency: Like many yachts built in the Taiwan "golden era," the quality of stainless steel used for chainplates and fuel tanks can vary. It is highly recommended to inspect the chainplates for crevice corrosion, particularly where they pass through the deck.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: The 47 DS carries substantial tankage to support long-range cruising. These tanks are often integrated deep in the hull. If the original mild steel or stainless tanks show signs of weeping or corrosion, replacement can be a major "engine-out" surgical project.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The skeg-hung rudder is robust, but the lower bronze gudgeon and the upper bearings are known to develop play over time. If the helm feels "clunky" in a following sea, the bushings likely require replacement.

Community & Resources

The Tayana 47 DS benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the sailing world. The Tayana Owners Group (TOG) serves as a technical clearinghouse, offering a vast archive of original manuals, wiring diagrams, and custom modification logs. Because many of these boats have circumnavigated, the collective knowledge within the TOG is an invaluable asset for new owners preparing for offshore work.

The Verdict

The Tayana 47 DS is a quintessential "blue-water" yacht that refuses to compromise on safety or interior luxury. While it requires more cosmetic maintenance than a modern "plastic" boat, its structural integrity and Robert Perry pedigree ensure it remains a top-tier choice for serious cruisers.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior light and 360-degree visibility from the salon.
• Proven Robert Perry hull design with excellent heavy-weather tracking.
• High-grade teak joinery and semi-custom build quality.
• Generous tankage and storage for long-range autonomy.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for exterior teak and aging stainless steel.
• Heavier displacement makes it sluggish in winds under 8 knots.
• Potential for high-cost repairs if deck or tank issues have been neglected.