Tayana 58 DS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Tayana 58 DS behaves with the predictable, "freight train" momentum characteristic of a vessel with a displacement exceeding 58,000 pounds. Designer Robert Perry utilized a long fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration that provides exceptional directional stability and protects the steering gear from debris. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio typically in the 220–240 range, it is not a "light-air flyer," but it excels once the breeze exceeds 12 knots, where its waterline length allows it to maintain high average speeds.

The sail plan is usually a powerful cutter rig, which provides versatility for short-handed crews. Owners often report that the boat feels exceptionally stiff, thanks to a ballast ratio of roughly 33%. In heavy weather, the hull’s deep V-sections forward help to mitigate slamming, a feature Perry prioritized for offshore comfort. While the high-profile deck saloon adds windage compared to the standard Tayana 58, the effect on leeway is marginal when the vessel is properly powered up. Handling under power is generally assisted by a bow thruster, which is considered a necessity for docking this high-freeboard yacht in crosswinds.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining feature of the "DS" model is its raised coachroof, which allows for a "living on one level" feel between the cockpit and the salon. The interior is characterized by expansive windows that eliminate the "cave-like" atmosphere found in traditional deep-bilge yachts. Ta Yang is renowned for its woodwork, and the 58 DS is typically finished in hand-oiled teak or cherry.

The layout is highly variable; while a three-cabin configuration with a massive aft master suite is most common, some hulls were built with a four-cabin arrangement for larger families. The sibling model, the standard Tayana 58, utilizes a traditional center-cockpit layout without the raised salon floor, resulting in more storage depth but less visual connection to the horizon. In the DS version, the galley is usually located slightly down from the main salon, providing a secure workspace while remaining part of the social environment. Ventilation is a strong suit, with numerous opening ports and overhead hatches designed to facilitate airflow in tropical climates.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Tayana 58 series has a storied reputation in the cruising community as a "world-girdler." Robert Perry has frequently discussed the design evolution of this hull in his own technical writings and books, such as Yacht Design According to Perry, where he highlights the 58 as a successful balance of volume and aesthetics. The model is a frequent subject of editorial praise for its longevity; Cruising World has previously highlighted the 58 as a robust choice for those transitioning to a permanent life at sea, noting its ability to carry the heavy payloads (fuel, water, and spares) required for remote exploration.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tayana 58 DS should focus their inspections on the specific complexities of its Taiwanese construction and the aging of its systems:

• Teak Deck Integration: Most 58 DS models were delivered with thick teak side decks. Over decades, the screws and bedding compound can fail. Buyers should look for signs of core moisture or "weeping" fasteners in the overheads below.
• Chainplate Inspection: Like many yachts of this era, the stainless steel chainplates are glassed into the hull or bolted through heavy knees. These are subject to crevice corrosion and should be inspected for rust streaks or movement, especially if the boat has spent significant time in the tropics.
• Fuel Tank Material: Some older Tayanas were built with black iron fuel tanks. While durable, they are prone to internal corrosion if water sits in the bottom. Replacing these often requires significant joinery work or cutting the tank into pieces.
• Stainless Steel "Tea Staining": The high-quality 316 stainless steel used by Ta Yang is generally excellent, but the welds on the pulpit, pushpit, and davits require regular polishing to prevent the localized pitting common in high-salinity environments.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge and owner support is the Tayana Owners Group (TOG). This association maintains an extensive archive of manuals, wiring diagrams, and Perry-specific design notes. Because the 58 DS shares much of its DNA with the standard 58 and the earlier 55, the collective knowledge base is one of the most comprehensive for any semi-custom cruising yacht.

The Verdict

The Tayana 58 DS is a purpose-built passage maker that prioritizes comfort and safety over raw racing speed. It is an ideal platform for a couple or family intending to live aboard for years at a time.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Volume: The deck saloon provides superior light and visibility compared to almost any yacht in its class.
• Robert Perry Pedigree: A proven hull form that tracks well and handles heavy seas with grace.
• Build Quality: Substantial scantlings and exquisite joinery work that far surpass modern production-grade boats.

Cons:

• High Maintenance Costs: The abundance of teak and stainless steel requires constant upkeep to preserve the yacht's value.
• Maneuverability: Its heavy displacement and high windage make it challenging to handle in tight marinas without a functional bow thruster.
• Draft: With a draft of approximately 7 feet (depending on the keel configuration), it is restricted in some shallow cruising grounds like the Bahamas.