Originally launched in the early 1980s, this 40-foot cruising sailboat represents Tartan's commitment to building robust, well-engineered vessels for serious sailors. Designed during an era when the Ohio-based manufacturer was gaining recognition for combining performance with comfort, the Tartan 40 emerged as a capable blue-water cruiser that could handle both coastal adventures and extended offshore passages. The design reflects classic American cruising yacht principles, featuring a moderate displacement hull that balances speed with stability. Tartan's reputation for solid construction is evident throughout, with attention paid to both structural integrity and sailing performance. The boat's proportions suggest good upwind ability while maintaining the interior volume needed for comfortable cruising. Sailors who have owned these boats often praise their seaworthiness and build quality, noting that Tartan's engineering approach prioritized long-term durability over cutting costs. The 40-footer sits comfortably in the sweet spot for couples or small families looking to venture beyond coastal waters, offering enough space for extended cruising while remaining manageable for a small crew. While not designed as a pure racer, the boat demonstrates respectable performance under sail.
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What is the Tartan 40's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Tartan 40 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.49. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Tartan 40's comfort ratio?
The Tartan 40 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 26.43. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Tartan 40 safe for offshore sailing?
The Tartan 40 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.97. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Tartan 40?
The theoretical hull speed of the Tartan 40 is 7.53 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Tartan 40 weigh?
The Tartan 40 has a displacement of 17,250.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 40.25 ft.
How much does a used Tartan 40 cost?
Based on 3 recent market listings, used Tartan 40 sailboats typically sell for between $40,000 and $109,999, with a median asking price of $84,900. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.
Who designed the Tartan 40?
The Tartan 40 was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1984.