Question 1

Is the Tartan 34 still in production and, if not, when did production end and how many of these sailboats were built?

Accepted Answer

The Tartan 34 is not in production anymore. Production ended in 1978 after 10 years and more than 500 boats were built.

Question 2

What is the history of the builders of the Tartan 34 and is the company still in business?

Accepted Answer

The builders of the Tartan 34 were Douglass & McLeod Plastics, which later became Tartan Marine. The company was founded in 1960 by Charlie Britton and Gordon Douglass in Grand River, Ohio. They started by building fibreglass dinghies and then moved on to larger sailboats, such as the Tartan 27 and the Tartan 34. The company is still in business today, although it has changed ownership several times. It is currently owned by Tim Jackett, who also designs most of the new models.

Question 3

What keel options are available for the Tartan 34?

Accepted Answer

The Tartan 34 has a keel/centreboard configuration, with a fixed ballasted keel and a retractable centreboard that can be raised or lowered by a pennant line. The original keel had a draft of 3'11" with the centreboard up and 8'4" with the centreboard down. Some boats have been modified to have a deeper fixed keel (4'5") or a shallower fixed keel (3'3"). The centreboard can improve the upwind performance and stability of the boat.

Question 4

What is the Tartan 34 like to sail?

Accepted Answer

The Tartan 34 is generally considered to be a good sailing boat, with balanced helm, good speed, and comfortable motion. It performs well in light to moderate winds, but can also handle heavy weather with reefing and proper trim. It is especially fast downwind, thanks to its long waterline and centerboard. It can tack through about 90 degrees and point fairly high when close-hauled. It is also easy to handle by one or two people, with simple rigging and sail controls.

Question 5

What is the average cost of a secondhand Tartan 34?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of a secondhand Tartan 34 depends on the condition, equipment, and location of the boat. According to YachtWorld.com, the current asking prices for Tartan 34s range from $19,730 to $47,274, with an average of $27,386. However, the actual selling prices may be lower or higher, depending on the negotiation and the market.

Question 6

What other sailboats have been created by the designer of the Tartan 34?

Accepted Answer

The designer of the Tartan 34 was Olin Stephens, one of the most influential and prolific yacht designers of the 20th century. He was a partner of Sparkman & Stephens, a naval architecture firm that designed hundreds of sailboats, ranging from dinghies to superyachts. Some of his most famous designs include Dorade, Stormy Weather, Finisterre, Intrepid, Courageous, Freedom, and Bolero.