Tes 246 Versus Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tes 246 Versus is characterized by a high degree of initial stability, a necessity given its design as a family cruiser with significant internal volume. The use of a plumb bow serves a dual purpose: it extends the effective waterline length to nearly the total length of the hull, and it allows for a finer entry that improves upwind tracking compared to the older Tes 678. On the water, the boat is known for being remarkably stiff, often carrying full sail in conditions where other 24-footers might need to reef. This is largely due to the internal ballast combined with a heavy centerboard or a fixed-wing keel option.

According to technical reviews from Tes Yacht Canada, the vessel is frequently rigged with a mast-raising system, a staple of Polish "Masurian-style" yachts. This system allows a single person to step the mast, facilitating easy transitions from trailer to water. While its high freeboard and cabin trunk create significant windage—making docking in a crosswind a maneuver that requires focus—this same design choice provides a dry ride in choppy conditions. The steering is typically via a transom-hung rudder, which provides a direct and responsive feel, though owners note that the boat performs best when kept relatively upright to prevent the wide stern from dragging.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The defining characteristic of the 246 Versus is its "big boat" interior packed into a 25-foot frame. Tomasz Siwik’s design philosophy prioritizes ergonomic living, resulting in an interior that offers roughly 1.85 meters (6’1”) of standing headroom, an extraordinary feat for a trailerable sailboat. The layout is available in two primary variations: an open-concept plan that maximizes the sense of space, and a version with a closed forward cabin for increased privacy.

The craftsmanship below deck often features high-quality woodwork, typically finished in oak or mahogany veneers, which contrasts with the modern fiberglass exterior. The galley is functional for multi-day trips, featuring a two-burner stove, a sink, and optional refrigeration. A separate, fully enclosed heads compartment is standard, often including a vanity and the option for a shower. The sibling models, the older Tes 678 and the larger Tes 28 Magnam, share this DNA of prioritizing volume, but the 246 Versus is widely considered the "sweet spot" in the range for those who need a boat that is easy to tow but large enough for a family of four to live aboard for a week.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Tes 246 Versus should focus their inspection on the specific mechanical systems that enable its versatility.

1. Lifting Keel Mechanism: As many units are equipped with a swing keel or a vertical lifting daggerboard, the stainless steel cable and the winch mechanism should be inspected for fraying or corrosion. Because the ballast is often internal, the "clunk" of a loose keel in the trunk is a common point of maintenance.
2. Mast-Step Hinge: The mast-raising system puts significant stress on the tabernacle and the forestay attachment point. Check for any hairline cracking in the gelcoat around the mast base.
3. Deck Hardware Bedding: Some earlier production units have been noted in European owner circles for requiring re-bedding of stanchion bases and cleats to prevent moisture ingress into the deck core, particularly if the boat has been used frequently in saltwater.
4. Rudder Bushings: Given the transom-hung nature of the rudder, the pintles and gudgeons can develop play over time, leading to a "vibrating" feel at the helm when sailing at higher speeds.

Community & Resources

The Tes brand maintains a dedicated following, particularly in Poland and Germany. The most prominent technical resource for owners is the Tes Yacht official technical support, which provides access to original design specifications and replacement parts. In North America, the community is centered around the regional importers who organize owner rendezvous and provide translated manuals for the Polish-built systems.

The Verdict

The Tes 246 Versus is an expertly engineered compromise that favors interior luxury and trailerability over pure racing performance. It is a "pocket cruiser" in the truest sense, offering the amenities of a 30-foot yacht in a package that can be parked in a driveway.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom and interior volume for its class.
• Easy mast-stepping system for solo sailors.
• Modern, aggressive styling with a high-quality finish.
• Excellent stability and safety for family cruising.

Cons:

• High windage can make low-speed maneuvering challenging.
• Not intended for high-performance racing or heavy offshore use.
• Limited availability in the second-hand market outside of Europe.