where are tartan sailboats made

Through the Years

A history of performance, quality & craftsmanship.

Throughout the decades long history of Tartan  sailboats the resourceful designers, engineers and boat builders of Tartan yachts have continuously established new standards of performance, quality and craftsmanship.  We have done so by staying true to our creed of providing Tartan sailboat owners with a yacht that delivers both luxurious accommodations and safe, well-mannered sailing performance in all conditions.  

Tartan emerged on the auxiliary sailing yacht scene in 1960, with Charlie Britton at the helm.  As a result of a collaboration with the renowned design firm of Sparkman and Stephens, and builder Douglass and McLeod of Grand River, Ohio, Charlie developed the company’s first model, the Tartan 27.  The Tartan 27 constituted a departure from the existing norms of wooden construction to begin a new generation of quality crafted fiberglass hulls.  Establishing them at the forefront of the boat building world, Tartan charged forward with new designs, such as the 34 and the Blackwatch 37.  To meet expanding production demands the company opened a second manufacturing plant in Hamlet, North Carolina.

Continuing this evolution into the seventies, Tartan continued to expand and develop new models, each a success in its own right.  Most notably the Tartan 37, Tartan 41 and Tartan Ten, all set new standards for performance on race courses throughout North America.  While racing a Tartan was the pastime of many, performance cruising was becoming the new norm and Tartans became fixtures in cruising destinations throughout the world.

Tartan experienced a good deal of change in the eighties.  John Richards and Jim Briggs took over the reins from Charlie and the mid eighties saw the development of several new Tartans.  This time designs by Tim Jackett and the in-house Tartan design team.  The first complete in house designs were the Tartan 31 and Tartan 372; both were Cruising World Boat of the Year winners in the early years of those contests.

The marine industry experienced a general downturn in the late eighties and Tartan consolidated its manufacturing in its Grand River, Ohio factory.  As the industry experienced a recovery in the early 90’s, Tartan continued as a leader by substantially investing in new molds and designs further establishing the brand as a leader in the sailboat industry.  Notable additions to the line included the Tartan 3500 and Tartan 4100. The 4100 went on to be the most prolific over 40 foot design in Tartan’s history. The success of these new models required a larger manufacturing facility and the company relocated to Fairport Harbor, its current location.  Also in the late nineties, Tartan acquired the C&C brand and began the development of several new models under the C&C banner.  As Tartan had evolved into a performance cruiser, C&C offered a companion brand that focused more heavily on the race boat segment.  Although the company experienced a good deal of success with the C&C brand, having launched nearly 400 Tartan built C&C’s over a 10 year production run, the C&C brand was eventually licensed to another builder allowing Tartan to focus on its core product, luxury performance cruisers.

In addition to continued new model development, Tartan also refined its manufacturing processes and developed new higher tech materials, all aimed at enhancing the product.  Its composite construction evolved from traditional wet hand lamination to the current infused laminates comprised of high strength e-glass reinforcements and light weight coring resin infused under vacuum with modified epoxy vinylester resin.  Tartan also included carbon fiber masts as a part of their product offering along with rig innovations such as the CCR (Cruise Control Rig) and composite pocket boom.  All features aimed at providing great performance, ease of handling and greater safety.  

Although the Great Recession marked a significant downturn in the marine industry, Tartan continued to offer new and innovative models.  The 2000’s saw the introduction of the Fantail Daysailor, 101, 3400, 3700, 4000, 4300, 4700, and 5300, these award winning models have kept Tartan at the forefront of North American boat building.  Additionally, Tartan acquired the Legacy line of power boats and in 2014 began producing this line of premium Downeast style power cruisers.  Legacy’s are built with the same eye toward intelligent use of leading edge marine composites combined with Tartan’s best in class joiner work and interior styling.  This provides a sister powerboat line that adheres to the same high performance, luxury cruising yacht ideal as every Tartan sailboat.

With over 5,000 hulls launched , Tartan continues to adhere to the foundation laid with the diminutive Tartan 27, great designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and industry leading technology all combined to deliver uncommon comfort and performance.

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• Sailboat Guide

Tartan Yachts

Founded by Charles Britton who bought out what was left of Douglass & McLeod Plastic Corporation when their factory was completely destroyed by fire in 1971.

Associations

• Tartan Owners Website
• Tartan 10 (USA)
• Soverel 33 Class Association
• Tartan 30 Association (Chesapeake)
• Britton Chance
• Doug Peterson
• Graham & Schlageter
• Mark Soverel
• Sparkman & Stephens
• Tim Jackett

50 sailboats built by Tartan Yachts

Tartan 34 C

Tartan 37 (S&S)

Tartan 34-2

Tartan 3000

Soverel 33 (1983)

Tartan 27-2

Tartan 3800

Black Watch 37

Tartan Tock 40

Tartan 40 offshore.

Tartan Pride 270

Tartan 33 r.

Tartan 31 Piper

Tartan 41 passagemaker.

Tartan Tangent One

Tartan 3700, tartan 4000, tartan 3100.

Tartan 27 Yawl

Tartan Fantail 26

Tartan 37 (hood).

Tartan 4600

Tartan 33 (hull 1-20).

Tartan 4100

Tartan 4300

Tartan 4700

Tartan 3400

Tartan 4400

Tartan 28 Piper

Tartan 3500.

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Seattle Yachts International Acquires Tartan Yachts And Legacy Yachts

Breaking News: Seattle Yachts International Acquires 60-Year-Old Ohio Boat Manufacturer!

Fairport Harbor, Ohio - Peter Whiting , Managing Partner, announced that Seattle Yachts International, is continuing its expansion and vertical integration with the recent acquisition of famed 60-year-old boat manufacturing operation, Tartan-Legacy.

Seattle Yachts has formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, Marine Manufacturing Group LLC (MMG) to purchase the assets of Tartan Legacy Yachts, a manufacturing operation that produces Tartan Sailing Yachts , Legacy Downeast Yachts , and AMP® brand carbon fiber masts and spars.

Speaking with candor and obvious pleasure, Whiting explained that Seattle Yachts has been a dealer for both Tartan and Legacy yachts for several years and had a number of boats in the Tartan Legacy production pipeline when it became evident the Ohio-based manufacturer was experiencing financial difficulties.

Said Whiting,"Look, it’s no secret that Tartan-Legacy had fallen onto some hard times of late and was struggling despite having a healthy order book and some nineteen boats in process on the production floor.

We could see that, with some needed recapitalization and the infusion of some heavy-duty boat building management talent, we could restore the brands to their historically strong positions in the market. We also felt that would ultimately be to the benefit of everyone, including current and future customers, other Tartan-Legacy dealers, and, of course, ourselves, who had significant investments at stake, not to mention the 45 some people who work in the operation."

Whiting explained further that when the urgency of the situation became clear, he retained well-known marine industry consultant and former president and CEO of Palmer Johnson Yachts, Phil Friedman, to help evaluate what might be done and, later, to consult in the acquisition.

Friedman, a long-time friend and marine business associate of Whiting’s, described the whirlwind of evaluation and due diligence activities that followed.

Said Friedman,“To an outsider with little experience in the recreational marine industry, the speed at which this process moved might seem astounding. But in situations like this, accelerated decisions are the norm, not the exception.

The fact is, buying and owning a boat manufacturing operation is not for the faint of heart. Nor is it something for gentlemen hobbyists or bean-counters in pinstriped suits. It takes talent, hands-on experience in the industry, guts, and a fair measure of tolerance for risk. These are all qualities that contribute to being able to make sound decisions on the fly and are generally displayed only by seriously experienced boatbuilding business pros like Peter Whiting.”

In turn, Whiting said that he was pleased to have Friedman available to help with the reorganization and relaunch of the Tartan Legacy operation because in addition to marine business management experience Friedman also has in-depth background in the construction of both sailing and luxury motor yachts 10- to 50-meter range.

(Seen below: The Legacy 36 is a classic luxury downeast cruiser. Seattle Yachts has a Legacy 36 available in Florida.)

Whiting also pointed out that he and Friedman are being joined on the MMG management team by long-time yacht production pro, Bill Macnab, who spent a couple of decades building boats and yachts in Asia, at firms like McConaghy, Prout, Tri-Con, and Allegro — and who, before that, worked for many years at Westbay Sonship in British Columbia, Canada. Said Macnab,

“Our main goal at Tartan-Legacy is, in the short term, to improve processes and through-put of the operation, while maintaining the high quality of construction, fit, and finish for which these brands have been known. We will also, by the way, deliver these rugged, seaworthy, comfortable, and good-looking cruising yachts at compelling prices.”

Tim Jackett, Tartan-Legacy’s perennial in-house designer and product development manager will round out the team going forward. Said Whiting of Jackett, who has been with the boatbuilding operation for nearly 40 years,

“Tim represents the best of what makes the Tartan and Legacy yachts what they are today. He brings to the mix a genuine wealth of historical knowledge, solid design sense, and the appetite for constant improvement and innovation.”

Whiting went on to explain that the Tartan-Legacy manufacturing operation is being moved to a new 76,000 sf facility in Painesville, OH, about five miles from its current location. Although only slightly larger than the current facility, the new plant is, according to Macnab, much better laid out for boat building than what Tartan-Legacy has had for the last ten or so years. And the long-term lease at the new facility assures Tartan and Legacy brands will continue to be built in the heartland of America for a long time to come.

About Marine Manufacturing Group LLC

MMG is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Seattle Northwest Yachts, LLC. MMG recently acquired the assets of the Tartan/Legacy/AMP operation in Fairport Harbor, Ohio which has a 60-year history of designing and building Tartan sailboats and sailing yachts, as well as, more recently, Legacy motor yachts and AMP carbon fiber masts and other parts.

MMG recently moved the Tartan/Legacy operation to a new 76,000 square foot facility in Painesville, Ohio, where the company expects soon to be producing several dozen units per year.

(Seen below: The new Tartan 395 sailboat is in stock with Seattle Yachts San Diego.)

About Seattle Yachts International

Seattle Yachts covers the waterfront with multiple local offices and a full-service boatyard situated from the Pacific Northwest to Southern California, Florida, the Bahamas, and the Philippines.

Moreover, Seattle Yachts’ highly experienced, globe-trotting team can meet all of a customer’s yachting-related needs not only in the Americas, but in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia, as well.

The firm is active and experienced not only in selling yachts, but in their design, construction, repair and maintenance. Many of the SY team also have decades of hands-on experience in sailing and motor yacht operation and in cruising and extended liveaboard.

In addition to offering a complete range of yacht brokerage services, Seattle Yachts is also an authorized stocking dealer for a wide array of new-yacht brands, both power and sail, including Alaskan, American Tugs, Endurance, Hampton, Legacy, Nimbus, Northern Marine, Northwest, Paragon, Regency, Whitehaven, Dehler, Hanse, Moody, and Tartan.

According to managing partner, Peter Whiting, this enables Seattle Yachts to guide its customers and clients to the right buying decisions in accord with what is right for them, rather than being restricted by a narrow selection of available alternatives.

For more information about Tartan and Legacy Yachts, contact :

[email protected] or [email protected]

605 S State Street, Painesville, Ohio

Or your closest Tartan and Legacy dealer.

For more information about Seattle Yachts International, contact:

[email protected]

San Diego International Boat Show 2024

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Tartan 33: Scheel Keel Pioneer

The tartan 33’s offshore ambitions are evident in cynosure, owned by practical sailor contributor bill herrmann..

By the late 1970s, the old Tartan 34 had become very dated. The boat had been in production for a decade, and hundreds of families had cut their racing and cruising teeth on the S&S keel/centerboarder. But the market was changing. Boats were faster and lighter, keels and rigs more efficient, interiors roomier and more functional.

Tartan 33 Specs

In 1978, Tartan brought out the Tartan Ten, a 33-foot, fairly light, fractionally-rigged “offshore one design.” The boat was a huge success: fast, easy to sail, and unencumbered by the design limitations of a rating rule.

But the Tartan Ten had one big problem: limited accommodations with stooping headroom, an interior most kindly described as spartan. A hardy crew could take the Tartan Ten on a multi-day race such as the Mackinac, and you might even coax your family aboard for a weekend of camping out. But cruising or extended racing in comfort? Forget it!

If, however, you could combine the size and performance of the Tartan Ten with a boat having decent accommodations, you had a good shot at a winning combination, particularly in a time when interest in sailing was growing at an astounding rate. As a bonus, the venerable Tartan 34 could be retired with the dignity she deserved.

The answer to all these prayers was the Tartan 33. Introduced as a 1979 model, the Tartan 33 bore a strong resemblance to the Tartan Ten, with a big fractional rig, flattish sheer, and wide stern. But unlike the Tartan Ten, the new 33 had good accommodations.

The Tartan 33 was a moderate success, with about 220 boats built over a five-year period. The fractional rig, touted as being easier to handle due to smaller headsails, may have turned off some customers who associated that type of rig with high performance boats such as J/24s and 12 meters. The slotted aluminum toe-rail of the 33 was more reminiscent of Tartan’s racing boats, such as the 41 and the Ten, than it was of a high-quality cruiser/racer.

In 1984, the Tartan 33 went out of production. In its place came the “new” Tartan 34, a boat that could directly cash in on the reputation of the famous old Tartan 34. Interestingly, the new Tartan 34 is the Tartan 33, with the stern drawn out 9 inches to a more pleasing termination, the interior redesigned to meet market demands, and the 33’s fractional rig replaced by the masthead rig of the Tartan 33R.

Compared to the Tartan 33, the new 34 is more finely finished, with teak toerails and nicer interior detailing.

When first introduced, the Tartan 33 had a base price of just over $46,000. By the time production ceased, the base price had increased to $66,000. Remember, those were the years of double-digit inflation.

Sailing Performance

As originally configured—Scheel keel and fractional rig—performance of the Tartan 33 might be a little disappointing for someone coming from a Tartan Ten, but is certainly on a par with most other boats of the same size, type, and vintage. In absolute terms the Tartan 33 is spritely, but not stunning, with a PHRF rating of about 160. By comparison, the old C&C 34—a good all-around cruiser/racer from the same period—rates 144, 16 seconds per mile faster. The C&C 34 and Tartan 33 are almost identical in length, sail area, and displacement.

In lighter winds, the fractionally-rigged Tartan 33 is at its biggest disadvantage, particularly off the wind. The big mainsail allows you to sail fairly low, but you go pretty slow. By comparison, a boat with a big masthead spinnaker will be sailing a little higher and quite a bit faster for optimum off-wind VMG in the same conditions.

The Tartan 33’s interior departs from the norms for cruising boats in this area. Most owners who have lived with the interior for some time find it quite workable, but the boat’s successor, the T-34, better addresses the cruising sailor’s accommodation needs.

• Bifold doors separate main cabin from the head, which extends across the width of the boat, just aft of the v-berth. The drop-down table dines four comfortably. A short settee—less than 5-feet long—with the icebox occupying a high counter at what would normally be the head of the berth.

• The L-shaped galley is serviceable but counter space is at a premium.

• A quarterberth offers snug cubby for guests, but its usual function is a mini-garage.

• The navigator sits in a snug cutout, so it’s a bit of a stretch to reach the electrical panel outboard. Laptop navigation is unimpeded.

• Owners praise the joinery on the Tartan. There are no veneer laminates, only finely joined solid wood. There is more storage than one would expect in a boat of this size.

IMS (International Measurement System) velocity predictions show that the Scheel keel Tartan 33 must in general be sailed a little lower and flatter than a comparable fin keel boat, although the 33’s righting moment is very similar to that of a fin keel boat of the same size and type, as is her range of positive stability.

The Tartan 33 was not designed to any rating rule, but a number have been rated under the IMS. In some areas, there are enough of the boats to allow them to sail together as a one-design class, but the boat is not fast enough in absolute terms to stir the blood of most sailors interested in one-design racing. In addition, Tartan 33 sailors disagree on the proper amount of headsail overlap for the boat, making level racing more difficult.

To offset the rather average performance of the Tartan 33, the 33R was introduced in 1982. The 33—“R” for “Racing”—has a deep fin keel and a double-spreader masthead rig. The difference in performance between the 33 and the 33R is pretty amazing: the 33R is almost 30 seconds per mile faster than the stock 33, even though the sail area is almost identical.

Righting moment of the fin keel and Scheel keel boats is virtually the same, so the extra performance isn’t the result of increased stability. The combination of the fin keel and the masthead rig is simply faster in most conditions.

It’s interesting to compare the performance with the new 34, which combines the Scheel keel of the 33 with the masthead rig of the 33R. Although the specifications for the 33 say the boat is a thousand pounds lighter than the 34, the 33 was never as light as that. The typical 33, in IMS measurement trim, weighs pretty much the same as the new 34—11,000 pounds.

Typically, the 34 has a PHRF rating of about 141 with the optional deep keel, 147 with the standard Scheel keel. This places the 34 pretty squarely between the 33 and the 33R in the performance spectrum, suggesting that the masthead rig accounts for about half the performance difference between the 33 and the 33R.

In order to keep the rig simple, the 33 was designed without running backstays. Instead, forestay tension is maintained by carrying a lot of load on the swept-back upper shrouds. Some 33s that have been actively raced have added running backstays, but they are not necessary if the boat is used strictly for cruising. Our experience with fractional rigs of larger boats is that it is very difficult to maintain adequate headstay tension without runners or jumpers, even though runners are a pain for shorthanded sailing.

If you want the best performance in a Tartan 33, there’s no question that you should look for a 33R. It may be a long look, as relatively few of the higher-performance boats were built. The 33R’s draft of over 6’ 3” could be a disadvantage in areas of shoal water.

The Tartan 33’s deck features are consistent with the boat’s aims to be a multipurpose boat that will appeal to Wednesday night racers and family cruisers alike—and, with some upgrades, be capable of serious offshore adventures.

• Visibility from the helm is excellent and cut outs in the dodger breakwater offer a convenient slot for halyards and reefing lines to be led aft, making it easier to change the sail plan without going forward.

• Cast bronze corner protectors and a rugged 10-inch stern cleat are typical of the hardware throughout.

• Handholds extend forward of the mast. The non-skid is surprisingly grippy even on older boats.

• Anchor rollers and windlasses were not standard, but many owners have added them. The condition of the deck surrounding any aftermarket additions should be closely inspected.

• The Lewmar 40 winches were standard. Many owners have upgraded to self-tailing winches.

One advantage of the fractionally-rigged boat’s large mainsail—it’s just over 300 square feet, about what you’d find on most masthead-rigged 37-footers—is that the boat balances and sails reasonably well under mainsail alone. This is a useful feature for shorthanded cruising, when you may find yourself circling a harbor under sail looking for a place to anchor. With the Tartan 33, you can drop the jib and clear the foredeck for anchoring while still maintaining good sailing ability under mainsail.

Shrouds are set well inboard, and you’ll almost always find inboard genoa tracks just outboard of the cabin trunk, even though it was an option.

Wheel steering was standard on the boat, and the 32-inch wheel provides plenty of power as well as good feedback. The rudder is partially protected by a vestigial skeg, and is a deep, high-aspect-ratio appendage— practically parallel-sided in profile— rather than the more efficient elliptical shape seen in more modern racing boats and performance cruisers.

Most of the new boat owners who completed our first survey praised the Tartan 33 for its practical features.

A Lively Ride

The boat is tender, lively, solid, and fun to sail. We got oversize self-tailing winches, and the longer we own the boat, the more convinced we are of this choice. The fractional rig and good cockpit layout allow my wife and me to handle the boat in safety and comfort in high winds and heavy seas. The Scheel keel offers shallow draft with good stability, but performance is a little poor close hauled in slop and light air.

J.D. Cowan Columbus, OH 1980 model

Downwind scooter

With a fractional rig and Scheel keel, she cannot point as well as comparable masthead boats, but the large main gives an off-wind advantage. Since Tartan came out with the 33R with masthead rig and fin keel, I assume that the upwind performance of my boat did not appeal to some racers.

The lower lifelines interfered with the winch handles on the original Lewmar 40s. I eventually put on Lewmar 44 self-tailers, which are taller and allow the handles to swing between the lifelines.

Construction is excellent for a production boat The interior is not as plush as some cruising boats, but it is very utilitarian. For a cruising boat with good racing potential, my boat is fine. It’s my aim to make the boat I have more competitive, not to look for greener pastures with another boat.

D.N. Pevos W. Bloomfield, MI 1980 model

Key Additions

I added a propane stove, larger winches, electric refrigeration, an electric anchor windlass, and larger batteries. I also led the halyards back to the cockpit. I bought the boat for ease of singlehanding (I’m a 5’ tall, lightweight female). I live aboard for much of the summer. The interior is a palace for one, fine for two, a bit tight for three, but in a pinch, okay for four.

R.E. Cathou Lexington, MA 1980 model

The boat is strong and extremely seaworthy. Poor upwind performance is my greatest frustration. The huge main means that I must reef early. The boat is perfectly balanced with a working jib and a full main, but this isn’t exactly optimum for racing. Warranty claims included minor flaws in the gelcoat, which Tartan repaired shortly after delivery. A great designer (S&S) and a good builder equal strength and quality.

B. Weiss Stamford, CT 1981 model

Cockpit layout is efficient for sailing, but is somewhat better for cruising than for racing. A mainsheet traveler spans the cockpit well, just forward of the wheel, and genoa sheet winches are outboard of the main coamings, just forward of the traveler. For racing, it would be better to have the genoa winches further forward, so that trimmers would be well clear of the helmsman, and their weight would be further forward. For single-handed or shorthanded cruising, however, the location is almost ideal.

Unfortunately, self-tailing winches were not standard equipment. The stock Lewmar 40s are about the right size for the fractional foretriangle, but would be a little small on a masthead rig with a 150% genoa. Sparkman & Stephens is one firm that can always be counted on to design in a molded dodger breakwater, and Tartan has faithfully put them on their cruiser/racers over the years. Other builders should take note of the simple, functional breakwater on the Tartan 33, which has openings molded in to allow halyards to be led aft if you want to set the boat up for singlehanding.

Construction

Tartan has always had the reputation of being one of the country’s higher-quality production builders, and they deserve it. In general, owners report very few construction shortcomings, and very few warranty claims.

Four owners in our survey had gelcoat blistering problems. That does not constitute an unusually large percentage, but interestingly, the boats reported as having blisters were two pairs that were sequential in the production series. That may be a coincidence, but it’s an unusual one.

Balsa coring is used in both the hull and deck of the Tartan 33. If you replace or move any deck or hull fittings, be sure to seal any exposed balsa with epoxy resin before installing new hardware.

The hull-to-deck joint is made with a standard inward-turning hull flange, overlapped by the deck molding, which is bolted to the hull through an anodized aluminum toerail. The joint is bedded with both butyl and polysulfide. Builders like to use butyl as a bedding compound, since it’s cleaner to use than most gunned compounds such as polysulfide or polyurethane. Butyl has no adhesive properties, however, and in our experience it can be squeezed out of a joint over time if you continue to tighten down bolts to cure a leak. Since only one owner in our survey reported any deck leaks, Tartan’s combination seems to work well.

Several owners complain about the lack of a top-loading anchor well. Wells can be a nuisance when racing, since they frequently hold a fair amount of water. For coast-hopping, however, an top-loading well in the lets you easily clear the foredeck of gear.

There is an absolute minimum of exterior wood on the Tartan 33: handrails atop the cabin, trim around the companionway. The boat is much more austere than you think of when Tartan comes to mind, but the racing Tartans have always been pretty basic.

Two-tone decks were an option, although the standard monotone deck was available either in white or a light buff. With the two-tone deck package, non-skid areas on the deck, coaming tops, cockpit seats and deckhouse were a nice buff color, contrasting with the stark white of the rest of the deck molding. If you buy a monotone boat, the areas could be painted a contrasting color. A white Tartan 33 with white monotone decks is a plain vanilla boat, indeed.

You’ll find a three-cylinder, 24-hp Universal diesel in every Tartan 33. Owners report that the engine has been smooth-running and reliable, and that it’s adequate power for the boat. An aluminum fuel tank holds 26 gallons, giving a range of about 200 miles under power.

All in all, there’s little to quibble with in the design and construction of the Tartan 33: it’s simple, straightforward, and well executed.

The interior layout of the Tartan 33 has both fans and detractors. The head configuration, for example, is something you either love or hate. To give more room, particularly for showering, the head compartment runs the full width of the boat. A bi-fold door shuts off the head from the forward cabin, and another bi-fold door closes the head to the main cabin. Two opening ports provide ventilation in fair weather.

The difficulty with this arrangement is that you cannot get either into or out of the forward cabin if someone is using the head. This wouldn’t be a problem for cruising with a couple, but it could be a nuisance with a lot of people aboard. Closing the door to the forward cabin also cuts off ventilation forward, unless the weather is good enough to have the foredeck hatch open.

The problem is made even worse when the insert is used in the V-berth to form a double. This completely eliminates any standing room in the cabin, so that you climb into the berth directly from the head compartment.

It works, but there’s a fair amount of psychological resistance to the arrangement, since it is one usually seen on smaller boats.

Ironically, the full-width head is a really good one, with plenty of elbow room for showering and dressing. Even without the berth insert in place, standing room in the forward cabin is marginal, and headroom is very limited.

While the forward berths are quite long, they are extremely narrow at the foot, so that two tall people will be tangling feet if they use the berths as two singles. As a double, sleeping parallel to the centerline, this is less of a problem.

My 1980 Tartan 33 Cynosure still turns heads. But like any piece of machinery, the Tartan 33 needs to be maintained. For someone looking at a used Tartan 33, or other Tartan from that era, here are some areas of concern.

• Chain plate area – Tartan chain plates are a flat slab of stainless steel that passes through the deck and mounts to the mid-ship bulkhead. The through-deck area includes an escutcheon plate. Part of normal maintenance is renewing the chalking/waterproofing in this area. Throughdeck leaks usually first show as discoloration on the chain plate. Leaks can lead to bulkhead damages as well.
• Genoa tracks – As these boats age, the waterproofing on the Genoa tracks needs renewing. The good news is that the port side is super easy. Remove a piece of molding over the pilot berth, and with some help from someone topside you can loosen the fasteners. The starboard side is not so easy. To access the nuts under the Genoa track requires removing the top of the cabinets and one of the partitions.
• Portlights – At this point in their life cycle the Beckson ports are likely to leak, which stains or harms the interior teak. It is possible to replace the lenses and renew (clean) the rubber gaskets, but purchasing new Beckson ports is often the best option.
• Engine – The Universal 5424 /Kubota engine is a classic old-school diesel. Be sure to show the engine you care- change the oil, give her clean fuel and keep her cool, and she will run fine. At this point in the engine’s life consider replacing the glow plugs and replacing or rebuilding the injectors.
• Starboard drinking water tank- These tanks are famous for leaking. I finally decided to place a collapsible tank inside my existing tank.

Room for improvement

• Sails – The best way to both enhance your ride and be the envy of sailors with newer production boats is to put a good set of sails on her.
• Jib shaping – the T-33 is a roller furling fractional rig with the ability to point fairly well. The compromise to this design is that keeping the correct jib sheet angle (vertical and inboard/outboard) is a challenge. The reward for good sail quality and good sheet angle is a peppy old boat (think 60% TWS).  So how do you get your jib angle right?

1) Purchase Garhauer adjustable cars. This relatively inexpensive upgrade allows you to easily open and close the leech regardless of reef.

2) Purchase 2-3 snatch blocks. When the AWA is 80 degrees or higher, the jib develops a hook. This is where the slotted toe rail comes in handy (aside from not needing varnish). Take the jib sheet through a snatch block mounted at the boarding gate and then through the genoa car (pulled fully aft), which creates an effective jib shape.

• Jib size – When I purchased my boat she had a 135 and a 150 that was a thin light-air sail. I found the 150 to be simply too much sail in winds above 10 knots. When it came time to replace my jib, I purchased a 135%, 8.1-oz., tri-radial jib. Soon after, she had a matching 8.1-oz. tri-radial main (see cover photo).
• Main sail trim – The relatively large main sail requires attention. The T-33 likes to sail more upright so be ready to ease the main (under-trim) in the gusts.
• Ice box – Most of these boats have been retrofitted with refrigeration. Consider adding 1” of pink foam to make the ice box more efficient.
• Cabin overhead – when replacing the wood and fabric in my overhead I placed ½-inch insulation and added recessed lighting. Replacing the wood and fabric eliminated the old-boat-smell. Adding recessed lighting with switches by the companionway made the cabin much brighter.
• Countertops – The paucity of veneer, means dings to the wood can be oiled to darken, which then become part of the boat’s patina. The exception is its Formica countertops, which will yellow with age. With some basic wood working skills, the Formica can be easily replaced.

Practical Sailor boat reviewer and products and electronics tester Capt. William Herrmann is a delivery skipper based in St. Petersburg, Florida. His website is www.uscgcaptain.com .

The main cabin layout is also unusual. To starboard, there is a fairly standard settee that extends to form a reasonably-sized double, with a shelf outboard. A dining table folds up against the starboard forward bulkhead.

On the port side, the arrangement is less standard. Instead of a normal settee berth, there is a short settee—less than 5-feet long—with the icebox occupying a high counter at what would normally be the head of the berth. This short settee could function as a berth for a child, but obviously not for an adult. Outboard of the settee, there is a narrow pilot berth, which is comfortable and secure, and fortunately isn’t jammed as high under the side decks as they frequently are.

Main cabin ventilation is provided by six opening ports, two cowl vents in dorade boxes, and an aluminum-framed centerline hatch, which was an option, but a common one.

The galley—aft on the starboard side—is not the most efficient in the world, since you have to turn around and step across the main cabin to reach the icebox. In addition, the icebox top is the only usable food preparation counter space, which puts the cook in the middle of the main cabin traffic flow.

A two-burner alcohol stove was standard equipment, but a large percentage of boats have the optional three-burner gimbaled alcohol stove with oven. A deep single sink is just aft of the stove, but it’s a bit of a reach to use, since the flat of the cabin sole doesn’t extend very far outboard in this part of the hull.

Aft of the icebox is a sit-down chart table. The working surface is a reasonable size, and the outboard locker could be sacrificed for the installation of electronics.

While there is a contoured, upholstered seat for the nav station, it does not exactly face the chart table, and it is offset from the center of the table. The navigator has to make a bit of a stretch to reach the outboard part of the table, or to use any electronics that might be mounted outboard.

Tartan 33 in Context

Aft of the nav station is a big double quarterberth. A drop-in insert which covers the nav station seat forms the head of the inboard portion of the quarterberth, although the berth can be used as a single without disturbing the navigator. This is basically the same quarterberth layout used in the Tartan 37. Awkward on the 37, it’s a bit more acceptable on a smaller boat where space is at even more of a premium.

Most owners who have lived with the interior for some time find it quite workable. A top Tartan dealer told us, however, that he has definitely seen buyer resistance to it. Certainly the redesigned interior of the Tartan 34 is substantially better.

Conclusions

If you’re looking for a fairly fast, high-quality, late model cruiser/racer, with a great owner support group, the Tartan 33 is a good choice. In general, prices will be very comparable to those of other quality boats of the same size and vintage, such as the C&C 34 and Sabre 34. Performance of these three boats is also similar.

TARTAN, www.tartanyachts.com TARTAN OWNERS NORTHEAST, https://tone.clubexpress.com/

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Thank you for the well researched and informative review with comparisons for Tartan 33. Especially good consideration of sails and adjustments.

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A Comprehensive List of the United States Sailboat Manufacturers of the last 100 Years!

Published by sail on march 18, 2023 march 18, 2023.

Here are some of the most notable United States sailboat manufacturers of the past 100 years, along with a brief description of each:

Catalina Yachts –

Founded in 1970, Catalina Yachts is one of the largest sailboat manufacturers in the United States. Their boats range from 12 to 50 feet in length and are popular among both recreational sailors and serious cruisers.

Hunter Marine –

Hunter Marine was founded in 1973 and has built a reputation for producing high-quality sailboats that are both comfortable and seaworthy. Their boats range from 15 to 50 feet in length and are popular among cruisers.

Beneteau USA –

Beneteau is a French boat manufacturer with a strong presence in the United States. They produce a wide range of sailboats, from small day-sailers to large ocean-going cruisers.

J/Boats –

J/Boats is a racing-oriented sailboat manufacturer that was founded in 1977. Their boats are known for their speed and performance, and are popular among both amateur and professional sailors.

Pearson Yachts –

Pearson Yachts was founded in 1957 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Pearson Triton and Pearson 30. They went out of business in 1991, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Tartan Yachts –

Tartan Yachts has been producing high-quality sailboats since 1960. Their boats are known for their classic design and seaworthiness, and are popular among both cruising sailors and racing enthusiasts.

Island Packet Yachts –

Island Packet Yachts was founded in 1979 and has built a reputation for producing high-quality cruising sailboats that are comfortable and seaworthy. Their boats range from 26 to 52 feet in length.

O’Day Yachts –

O’Day Yachts was founded in 1958 and produced a wide range of sailboats, from small day-sailers to large cruising boats. They went out of business in 1989, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Cape Dory Yachts –

Cape Dory Yachts was founded in 1963 and produced a range of popular cruising sailboats, including the Cape Dory 25, Cape Dory 30, and Cape Dory 36. They went out of business in 1991, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

C&C Yachts –

C&C Yachts was founded in 1969 and produced a range of high-performance sailboats, including the C&C 35, C&C 41, and C&C 44. They went out of business in 2003, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Here are additional United States sailboat manufacturers from the past 100 years:

Bristol yachts –.

Bristol Yachts was founded in 1966 and built high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Bristol 32, Bristol 35.5, and Bristol 41.1. The company went out of business in 1997.

Hinckley Yachts –

Hinckley Yachts was founded in 1928 and is known for its high-quality, custom-built sailing yachts, including the Hinckley Bermuda 40, Hinckley Sou’wester 51, and Hinckley Picnic Boat. The company continues to produce boats today.

Sabre Yachts –

Sabre Yachts was founded in 1970 and produces a range of high-quality sailing yachts, including the Sabre 34, Sabre 42, and Sabre 48. The company continues to produce boats today.

Ericson Yachts –

Ericson Yachts was founded in 1963 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Ericson 27, Ericson 35, and Ericson 38. The company went out of business in 1990, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Cal Yachts –

Cal Yachts was founded in 1956 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Cal 25, Cal 40, and Cal 48. The company went out of business in 1989, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Columbia Yachts –

Columbia Yachts was founded in 1958 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Columbia 22, Columbia 34, and Columbia 50. The company went out of business in 1986, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Tartan C&C –

Tartan C&C was formed in 2003 when the Tartan and C&C brands were merged. They produce a range of high-performance cruising sailboats, including the Tartan 3700, Tartan 4300, and Tartan 4700.

Pacific Seacraft –

Pacific Seacraft was founded in 1976 and produced a range of high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Pacific Seacraft 34, Pacific Seacraft 37, and Pacific Seacraft 44. The company went out of business in 2018.

Islander Yachts –

Islander Yachts was founded in 1956 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Islander 28, Islander 36, and Islander 40. The company went out of business in 1987, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

Cheoy Lee Yachts –

Cheoy Lee Yachts was founded in 1870 and produced a wide range of boats, including sailboats. They are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design. The company continues to produce boats today.

Island Packet Yachts was founded in 1979 and is known for producing high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Island Packet 31, Island Packet 38, and Island Packet 420. The company continues to produce boats today.

J Boats –

J Boats was founded in 1977 and produces a range of high-performance racing sailboats, including the J/22, J/24, and J/111. The company continues to produce boats today.

Morris Yachts –

Morris Yachts was founded in 1972 and is known for producing high-quality custom-built sailboats, including the Morris M36, Morris M42, and Morris M52. The company continues to produce boats today.

Shannon Yachts –

Shannon Yachts was founded in 1975 and produces a range of high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Shannon 28, Shannon 38, and Shannon 53. The company continues to produce boats today.

Swan Yachts –

Swan Yachts was founded in 1966 and produces a range of high-end racing and cruising sailboats, including the Swan 45, Swan 60, and Swan 115. The company continues to produce boats today.

Tayana Yachts –

Tayana Yachts was founded in 1973 and produces a range of high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Tayana 37, Tayana 42, and Tayana 52. The company continues to produce boats today.

TPI Composites –

TPI Composites was founded in 1968 and is known for producing high-performance racing sailboats, including the J/22, J/24, and J/105. The company also produces components for wind turbines and other industries.

Vanguard Sailboats –

Vanguard Sailboats was founded in 1964 and produces a range of sailboats, including the Laser, Sunfish, and Vanguard 15. The company also produces kayaks and other watercraft.

Westerly Marine –

Westerly Marine was founded in 1956 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Westerly Centaur, Westerly Renown, and Westerly Oceanranger. The company went out of business in 2000, but many of their boats are still sailing today.

W.D. Schock Corporation –

W.D. Schock Corporation was founded in 1946 and produces a range of sailboats, including the Santana 20, Schock 35, and Harbor 20. The company continues to produce boats today.

O’Day Corporation –

O’Day Corporation was founded in 1958 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the O’Day 22, O’Day 27, and O’Day 40. The company went out of business in 1989.

Cal Boats –

Cal Boats was founded in 1957 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Cal 20, Cal 25, and Cal 40. The company went out of business in 1989.

Pearson Yachts was founded in 1959 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Pearson Triton, Pearson Ensign, and Pearson 30. The company went out of business in 1991.

Columbia Yachts was founded in 1958 and produced a range of popular sailboats, including the Columbia 26, Columbia 29, and Columbia 45. The company went out of business in 1987.

Tartan Yachts was founded in 1960 and produced a range of high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Tartan 27, Tartan 37, and Tartan 4400. The company continues to produce boats today.

Hinckley Yachts was founded in 1928 and is known for producing high-quality custom-built sailboats, including the Hinckley Bermuda 40, Hinckley Sou’wester 42, and Hinckley Talaria 55. The company continues to produce boats today.

Wauquiez Yachts –

Wauquiez Yachts was founded in 1965 and produced a range of high-end cruising sailboats, including the Wauquiez Centurion 32, Wauquiez Pretorien 35, and Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 48. The company went out of business in 2020.

Hunter Marine was founded in 1973 and produced a range of popular cruising sailboats, including the Hunter 25, Hunter 33, and Hunter 45. The company went out of business in 2012.

Catalina Yachts was founded in 1969 and produces a range of popular cruising sailboats, including the Catalina 22, Catalina 36, and Catalina 445. The company continues to produce boats today.

Com-Pac Yachts –

Com-Pac Yachts was founded in 1974 and produces a range of compact cruising sailboats, including the Com-Pac 16, Com-Pac Horizon Cat, and Com-Pac Eclipse. The company continues to produce boats today.

Precision Boat Works –

Precision Boat Works was founded in 1979 and produces a range of small sailboats, including the Precision 15, Precision 18, and Precision 23. The company continues to produce boats today.

Ericson Yachts was founded in 1963 and produced a range of popular cruising sailboats, including the Ericson 29, Ericson 35, and Ericson 38. The company went out of business in 1990.

Newport Boats –

Newport Boats was founded in 1945 and produced a range of popular cruising sailboats, including the Newport 30, Newport 41, and Newport 46. The company went out of business in the 1990s.

Bristol Yachts was founded in 1966 and produced a range of high-quality cruising sailboats, including the Bristol 27, Bristol 32, and Bristol 45.5. The company went out of business in 1997.

Allied Boat Company –

Allied Boat Company was founded in 1962 and produced a range of sturdy, ocean-going sailboats, including the Allied Seawind, Allied Luders 33, and Allied Princess. The company went out of business in the 1980s.

C&C Yachts was founded in 1969 and produced a range of high-performance racing sailboats, including the C&C 27, C&C 30, and C&C 44. The company went out of business in 2008.

Columbia Yachts (Modern) –

Columbia Yachts (Modern) was founded in 2007 and produces a range of modern cruising sailboats, including the Columbia 32, Columbia 45, and Columbia 50. The company continues to produce boats today.

For a complete picture, please use our free searchable database here!

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10 Best Sailboat Brands (And Why)

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 20, 2023

‍ There's no denying that sailors are certainly a passionate bunch. We’re so passionate about our boats that we always try going for the best sailboats. To make it a lot easier for you, here are the best sailboat brands.

Owning a sailboat is an indulgence that many of us only dream about but very few ever have the privilege of sailing the seas in what they can actually call their own.

While there's nothing wrong with renting a sailboat, the honor of owning one is certain what many sailors dream of.

With a perfectly crafted sailboat as company, gliding through the water, waves, and wind brings some sort of unmatched comfort and peace.

Add this to the fact that sailing takes you far away from the daily hustles and bustles that we've become accustomed to in our daily lives and you'll see why the life of sailing is very appealing to the masses.

But without a proper sailboat, all this fun and the good life of sailing are thrown out of the window.

Contrary to the widespread opinion, owning a sailboat isn't beyond anyone's reach. It's something that we can all achieve. But before getting into that, it's important to know some of the best sailboat brands.

The best sailboat brands will make your life as a sailor a lot easier and more fun. The best sailboat brands have, for decades if not centuries, mastered the art of woodworking. They've dedicated their skills and immense amount of their time to designing and manufacturing nothing but the best quality of sailboats in the industry.

So if you've been looking for the best sailboat brands from all over the world, you've come to the right place. We'll discuss the best of the best, something that will give you a perfect getaway from your normal life.

Table of contents

‍ Must-Have Features for Your Sailboat

Before highlighting the best sailboat brands, it would be appropriate to jog your mind a little with some of the features that must be available in your sailboat.

Choosing a sailboat can sometimes be a matter of compromises. In other words, it's sometimes sensible to accept that a sailboat cannot have all the features that you desire.

As such, it's all about going with a sailboat that has the features that matter to you most.

For this reason, let's look at the most basic features that can make the difference in both safety and comfort while improving your sailing experience.

A Safe and Comfortable Sailing Cockpit

You'll most definitely be spending a huge amount of time in the cockpit. Whether you're keeping watch, trimming sails , helming, or just enjoying the scenery, there's no better place to do all these than from the cockpit. That being said, a good cockpit should have the following.

• Have a good depth for safety reasons and adequate drainage
• Should give you a quick and easy access to jammers, cleats, and other important parts of the winch system
• Should have a seat or seats that are about 35 cm high, 50 to 55 cm wide to provide ideal support
• The seats should be adjustable to offer maximum comfort and allow you to change your position

GPS Chartplotter

Use a GPS Chartplotter once and your sailing will never be the same without it. It not only allows you to map a course but is also a great way of ensuring that your sailboat exactly follows that course. It also gives you constant updates on ocean conditions, weather conditions , and potential hazards such as deadly currents and sandbars.

A GPS Chartplotter is also an important safety device that can help you in some very critical situations while out there on the water.

For instance, it has a man-overboard button that is essentially meant to allow you to receive coordinates of the exact location should someone fall off your boat.

Electric Winch System

This is an amazing addition to any sailboat. It allows you to sheet a jib even in high and strong winds with a simple press of a button. It also gives you the chance of trimming a mainsail easily while still carry out other essential tasks in the sailboat.

An electric winch system can be of great importance, especially if you're short on crew. This is because it can free up some crew members to carry other important tasks. In other words, it can make duties that would otherwise require more crew members a lot easier.

More importantly, an electric winch system can maintain safety even in the roughest of conditions, thereby preventing you and your crew from getting injured. In essence, an electric winch system will make your sailing a lot safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable.

Reverse Osmosis Watermaker

This is a very valuable accessory, especially if you're going on long sea voyages. You can spend days on end without drinking clean and safe water.

As the name suggests, you can use this accessory to turn seawater into purified drinking water. It uses the reverse osmosis method that's essential not only in removing bacteria and parasites from the water but also in turning the water into purified and safe drinking water.

Even though this device is pricey, it's a great way to mitigate the over-reliance on huge water tanks. All you have to do is to ensure that it's properly maintained and you'll have an endless streak of safe drinking water no matter where you are.

Wide and Clutter-free Deck

While the deck is often an overlooked feature of a sailboat, it can be the difference between a great sailing experience and a stressful one. In essence, the deck of a sailboat should be wide enough and clutter-free.

This is significant as it can enable you to quickly access different parts of your sailboat with hindrance or getting tangled. As you can see, this is particularly important in improving safety and reducing stress.

With that in mind, make sure that the deck is organized in such a way that you can have easy access to sails, masts, and winches.

You should, therefore, avoid sailboats with decks that are designed in such a way that you have to climb on top of the cabin just to access these features. Needless to say, this can be quite unstable and very dangerous especially when conditions are rough.

The Best Sailboat Brands and Why

1. hallberg-rassy.

Hallberg-Rassy is a Swedish yacht maker that's very well-known in the blue water cruising circles for making some of the highest quality and sturdiest sailboats. For many sailors, this is the number one sailboat brand as it offers absolute comfort, utmost safety, and good and easy handling.

This brand is not only synonymous with sturdy construction but you won't worry getting soaking wet while out there on the water. This is because it has a well-protected deck and cockpit, finished with nice woodwork, and has a powerful engine with a big tankage just to ensure that you can go on long voyages.

When designing its sailboats, this brand has made it a norm to add some features that stand out from the rest. For instance, the bowsprit is an integral feature that makes sailing a Hallberg-Rassy quite easy and much enjoyable. This is because it grants easy access to and from the deck. Its electric anchor winches facilitate smooth maneuvering. Even more, its large steering wheels makes it much easier to control the boat even in the roughest of conditions. In essence, this brand has features that provide good control and an extra sense of safety.

Although this brand has evolved over the years, you'll easily recognize it even from a distance. And why is this? A Hallberg-Rassy never goes out of style. This is a unique sailboat brand that has always stayed true to its principles and concept. No matter which part of the world you go, Hallberg-Rassy will remain the undisputed king of blue water cruising.

2. Nautor's Swan

For over 50 years, Nautor's Swan has endlessly raised the sailing levels by designing and manufacturing new sailboat models that not only push the boundaries but also meet that many requirements and demands of sailors across the world. Thanks to its wide range of seaworthy, timeless, elegant, and highly-performing sailboats, the Nautor's Swan remains one of the best if not the best sailboat makers in the world.

Based in Jakobstad, Finland, this brand has severally set the industry standard with its speedy and sleek models such as the Swan 48, Swan 65, Swan 98, Swan 78, and Swan 120. These models have one thing in common: they never compromise on safety. As a brand that puts safety first, it ensures that its models are made of foam-cored glass fiber and reinforced both with carbon-fiber and epoxy. In essence, Nautor's Swan is widely revered for its unmatched seafaring and safety records.

Additionally, Nautor's Swan models are incredibly responsive. You can easily tell this just by the feel of the wheel. This brand has models that will gracefully slice through the biggest of waves with ease. That's not all; the interior of these models that are very comfortable even when the going gets tough. This is, without a doubt, a brand that strives to create self-contained worlds with each model.

3. Beneteau

This is perhaps the most selling sailboat brand in the world. For over a century now, this brand has based its models in a combination of simplicity and performance. This is a brand that will serve you just right across all latitudes and in all circumstances. Whether you prefer the Oceanis Yacht 62 or the Figaro Beneteau 3, this brand will never let you down on all fronts.

This brand revolves around a simple concept of creating a link around the world. From the deck space to its design and light, this brand does everything possible not just to uniformly transform life at sea but also to open doors to new horizons in a very luxurious yet practical way. Its models are designed with clear deck plans, stable hulls, simplified maneuvering and interior materials and equipment that can be easily personalized.

Whether you're looking for a racing sailboat or something that's designed to explore and enjoy the world in the company of friends and family, Beneteau is a true combination of sensations and simplicity. This is a brand that brings to the seas fun, simplicity, smartness, toughness, safety, intuitiveness, as well as dazzling reinvention.

4. Amel Yachts

Based on the ethos of designing and manufacturing comfortable, robust, and easy-to-handle boats, this French brand has, for over five decades, offered sailors and other sailing enthusiasts the perfect opportunity to explore the seas with the utmost quality, comfort, and more importantly, safety.

Using 100% French know-how, this brand has brought to the sailing world some of the best boats such as the Santorini, the Mango, the Super Maramu, and the Maramu. We would be doing this brand total injustice if we said that they're distinctive. Truth be told, there's nothing comparable to an Amel model. Well Amel was and still is, the ultimate standard by which other sailboat models are measured.

From items such as electric winches and furling, to generators, Watermaker , and washing machine down to the simplest of items such as towels. Spare filters, bathrobes, deck brush, and a boat safe, the Amel is in reality with what the real life of a sailor is and should be.

Although some may say that Amel still has room for improvement in terms of specifications and personalization, it cannot be denied that the Amel is a serious brand that designs and manufactures complete boats. With this brand, you'll be guaranteed of a higher degree of reliability, safety, and an edge of fun while out there on the water.

5. Hinckley Yachts

Based in Maine, United States, Hinckley Yachts is a brand that has been building robust, luxury, and safe sailboats for more than 90 years now. In its sailboat class, you'll find several sailboats that have classic shapes, inner strength, dramatic lines, and features that are absolutely essential in dealing with the challenges of the North Atlantic.

This brand has been successful in integrating impeccable craftsmanship with new technologies to ensure that their models always stand out while articulating advanced sailing practices, timeless aesthetic, robust construction, and the utmost safety. Whether you choose the Bermuda 50, the Sou'wester 53 or any model for that matter, you'll never be short of advanced performance based on the best design and technology.

In terms of features, this brand provides sailboat models with modern performance hulls. These hulls are constructed with inner layers of carbon, outer layers of Kevlar, and are aligned with computer-designed load paths. Every feature is designed without compromising comfort.

To this end, this brand offers you a perfect combination of both fun and sail. This brand offers more than just sailing. Instead, it offers a unique sailing experience that's combined with the pure joys of sailing in the blue waters with an ease of ownership and maneuverability.

6. Oyster Yachts

If you've been looking for luxury more than anything else, Oyster Yachts provides you with numerous solutions. This British brand is widely known for manufacturing a wide range of luxury cruising sailing yachts. Its sailboats are among the finest in the world and are immensely capable of taking you to some of the far-flung places in the world without having to worry about high winds and hellish waves.

Whether you choose the iconic Oyster 565 or the immense Oyster 595 you never fall short of experiencing the new world like never before. These are models that will enable you to own your adventure, choose your destination, set your courses, pick your anchorage, and stay safe at all times. If you want to hold the wheel and pull the sail while feeling the tang of salt spray on your face, Oyster Yachts is the way to go.

This is, unquestionably, a brand that's meant for you if you want to explore the seas in comfort, luxury and utmost safety. From craftsmanship, sailboat design, to hull, deck, and keel configurations, everything is designed to allow you to circumnavigate the world in comfort, elegance, and style.

7. Tartan Yachts

Based in Fairport Harbor, Ohio, there's arguably no better to begin your sailing adventures than with a sailboat designed and manufactured by Tartan Yachts. With several award-winning designs and construction, this brand is widely known for providing easy handling, great performance, and an ultimately stable platform.

This brand always strives to deliver a unique and the best possible experience to every sailor. As a brand, Tartan fully understands that every sailor has his/her unique sailing needs. As such every component of their models is designed with engineering levels that guarantee optimum performance, excellent on-deck visibility, and luxurious interior.

From the Tartan 5300, the Tartan 4300, the Tartan 345 to the New 365 and the Fantail, this brand makes it a priority to ensure that its models are among the strongest, lightest, and more importantly, the safest in the sailing industry. In essence, this brand can be ideal if you appreciate performance. It has rewarding sailing features both in narrow water lines and wider passages. Add this to its easy handling and you'll have a top-notch performer in virtually every condition.

8. Catalina Yachts

As one of the most popular boat manufacturers in the world, this American brand is widely revered for building the sturdiest boats that can hold up perfectly well in real-world conditions. These are generally family-oriented boats that are intelligently designed to ensure that your entire family can have fun out there on the water.

Some of the models include the cruiser series such as the Catalina 315, the Catalina 385, the Catalina 425 while the sport series include the Catalina 12.5 Expo, the Catalina 16.5, and the Catalina 14.2 Expo. As the current winner of the "Boat of the Year" Cruising World, you'll rarely go wrong with a Catalina model.

It offers a wide range of sailboat sizes that suits your lifestyle. This brand makes it a priority to ensure that all their models are not only safe but offer the best ownership and sailing experience. If anything, this brand is widely known to have one of the most excellent resale values in the sailing industry.

9. Island Packet Yachts

From the IP 525, the IP 439 to the IP 379, the Island Packet Yachts is a brand that encourages its customers not to keep the world waiting. This brand is meant for sailors who want to explore the world in utmost comfort and safety.

The first thing you'll notice in an IP sailboat is its large aft deck. This is not only perfect for sunbathing but can also serve you well if you want an impromptu dinner with friends and family while out there on the water. The living space is also large enough to carry most of your belongings, which is an added advantage especially if you've been planning to spend longer periods in the seas.

With modern evolution and refinement, as well as proven features, this brand is known to offer sailors maximum comfort, luxury, and safety. You'll have better access to the cockpit, have enough space, and are excellently designed to provide superior seafaring and the best features to enable you to spend extended periods when cruising.

10. Sparkman & Stephens

For more than 90 years, Sparkman & Stephens has been at the forefront of the belief that sailboat excellence goes beyond hull lines and deck plans. Instead, this brand believes in excellent naval architecture, innovation, sophistication, and beauty. This is a brand that has laid the foundation of sailboat as a sport not just in America but all over the world.

These models have graced the world for decades and bring immense pleasure to their owners in terms of innovation, performance, and excellence. Though rooted in tradition, the brand has pushed sophistication, technology, and sailing experience to a whole new level. You'll be a proud owner of the Sparkman & Stephens model.

There you have it; these are the best sailboat brands in the world. Although there are several other sailboat brands to choose from, the-above described brands stand shoulder above others in terms of quality, safety, performances and luxury.

Hopefully, you're at a much better place when it comes to choosing a sailboat that suits your lifestyle, needs, and budget .

Happy sailing!

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Tartan 3700 – new england performance cruiser.

I am on delivery from Fort Lauderdale to Savannah, Georgia at the moment and will respond to comments as my broadband availability allows. Sea stories, a navigation guide, an updated review of the Taswell 49 All Season are to come.

I know the Tartan 3700 well after representing a 2004 model for the last year and a half. Built out of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, Tartan Yachts is one of the few American sailboat builders still in production along with Sabre, Catalina, and Island Packet. This group of brands encompasses a niche market while also spans the spectrum of low to high quality and performance. The closest in comparison to the 3700 are the Sabre 362 and 386 models. Her highlights include incredible performance and beautiful cherry woodwork. You can purchase a new 3700 in 2013 in the 300k USD range.

In the Armchair The Tartan 3700 herself is one of the longest in production, most popular models out there featured in such lists as 5 Top Affordable Bluewater Cruising Sailboats . First introduced in 1999, Tim Jackett’s 3700 quickly achieved fame, winning Cruising World’s Best Midsize Cruiser award for 2000. Sure there have been some issues, but overall, and with over 100 hulls on the water, the 3700 has claimed her spot in the cruising sailboat pantheon. Many confuse the 3700 with the old Sparkman & Stephens 37-footer built in the 70’s and 80’s. The 3700 is another animal with a ultra-modern underbody that can move – and I mean move – in light air.

At the Design Board The underbody features a shallow bilge, low freeboard. She comes in three keel configurations: deep (7′ 3″), beavertail (5′), and centerboard (4′ board up, 7′ 3″ down). The beavertail is like a scheel shoal keel. She has a simple spade rudder and slightly offset shaft.

Beam is more at 12′ 8″ to 12′ than her Sabre 362 comparable and is carried well aft to increase interior space. Headroom is good; at 6′ tall I only need to duck in the aft cabin. One interior layout difference is the sink forward. The standard layout features a starboardside sink in the master forward stateroom. An alternative layout swaps that sink for a large hanging locker mirroring that of the portside. Tartan produces semi-custom yachts, so you will find all kinds of differences in construction. On one brokerage boat, the owner had eliminated the salon table and refrigeration to fit out his 3700 like a large day sailor. Bridge clearance is 56′. Bob Perry has a Sailing Magazine review .

Dockside The 3700 is a handsome design with down right sexy lines. While floating at anchor, underway, or parked along a pier dock, she turns heads. Looks may seem superficial, but it is an endearing fact that a good looking yacht, despite all her other flaws, has made many a happy sailor. She has a traditional raked bow, a relatively flat sheerline, and a rocket ship stern. The stern features the infamous electrically lowered platform. This feature was swapped out for a manual tie off sometime post-2004. Tim Jackett decided for a flush transom instead of the sugar scoop stern or the glassed on ledge of Sabres soley because of looks.

On Deck Starting forward she has a large, separate anchor locker and optional washdown. Recent models have come with a Solent rig and are specified by Tartan as CCR 3700’s. High quality hardware, a refreshing change from the junk most production builders use, is generously sprinkled about deck. Walking aft, dorades along the cabin top provide ventilation and accompanying handrails security. A carbon fiber rig was originally an option, but in 2004, Tartan made the double spreader, 56′ carbon fiber standard – realistically a must have for any club racer. The masthead, keel stepped rig setup is simple with tie ins below deck through mid sidedeck attachment points. The speader are slightly swept with a split backstay aft and optional hydraulic adjuster.

The cockpit is one area that Tartan changed tremendously on the larger 4000 model. The 3700 still has a centerline wheel instead of the twins you’ll see on the latest designs. There is a gigantic portside cockpit locker that houses the holding tank, power suppy, and provides access to the steering aft. Under the helm, there are two more opening lockers to the steering, autopilot, emergency tiller, and electric transom door equipment. Somewhere in this area is a good location for a generator.

Down Below Interiors sell yachts – even racing sailboats. And by interiors, I mean not only space but finish. Tartan has held her margin for 40-odd years because of the fantastic interior finish. Let’s face it. Their molded construction techniques are not the pinnacle of quality construction, but their light cherry woodwork is. Stem to stern, the 3700 is fitted out with masterful American craftmanship.

I think the layout’s strongest point is the head. Compared to the Sabre 362, the head and separate shower is immmense and a function of the additional beam that is carried well aft. The head is portside aft as you walk down the companionway. The forward facing nav station is next opposite the galley. Moving forward, water and fuel tanks are under the salon settees. You can order your new 3700 with optional faux leather upholstry. The master stateroom is in the bow. An air conditioning unit is likely beneath this berth along with storage. There is a peak-a-boo door in the starboardside, forward bulkhead. All the way aft is the garage. This aft berth is a great place to sleep in while offshore and an incredible inside storage area while dockside.

A 3700 review would not be complete without a note on Blue Heron, a 2005 model that nearly sank due to a hull fracture in 2006. Tartan in the following year did not do a great job of communicating (the company has had its fair share of financial issue in the last decade). A January 2009 article in Boat U.S. magazine outlines the story. Blue Heron was repaired, and a massive callback was endured. During that inspection period of all 3700 built from 2003 until 2005, not a single another one was found with a defect. Nonetheless, the event quickly turns up in google search results for “tartan 3700 problems” and the like.

Underway A quick breeze, and the 3700 is up and going. That’s what true sailors love about this model. I seatrialed twice, once in some inclement weather, and also motored from Lauderdale to Miami aboard the 3700. While I wish I had more to draw on, she showed potential and getty up at every turn. Standard equipment features a 130% genoa and full batten main. A spinnaker is a worthwile optional upgrade. Newer models have the aforementioned CCR (Solent) rig for additional headsail versatility.

Conclusion If you are considering American sailboats such as Sabres, Catalinas, and Island Packets in this size range, no doubt the Tartan 3700 is on your shortlist. With the ever lengthening and complicating of sailing design, a purchase of a yacht such as the 3700 has additional benefits. Slips are more easily found, at least here in the Biscayne Bay area, and for a more reasonable rate too. The 3700 is a fantastic little yacht that appeals to wide audience and will continue to for many years to come.

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Tartan Yachts has a New Owner

• By The Editors
• Updated: April 6, 2020

Peter Whiting, Managing Partner, announced that Seattle Yachts International , is continuing its expansion and vertical integration with the recent acquisition of famed 60-year-old boat manufacturing operation, Tartan-Legacy.

Seattle Yachts has formed a wholly-owned subsidiary, Marine Manufacturing Group LLC (MMG) to purchase the assets of Tartan Legacy Yachts , a manufacturing operation that produces Tartan Sailing Yachts, Legacy Downeast Yachts, and AMP brand carbon fiber masts and spars.

Whiting explained that Seattle Yachts has been a dealer for both Tartan and Legacy yachts for several years and had a number of boats in the Tartan Legacy production pipeline when it became evident the Ohio-based manufacturer was experiencing financial difficulties.

“Look, it’s no secret that Tartan-Legacy had fallen onto some hard times of late and was struggling despite having a healthy order book and some nineteen boats in process on the production floor,” said Whiting.

“We could see that, with some needed recapitalization and the infusion of some heavy-duty boat building management talent, we could restore the brands to their historically strong positions in the market,” he continued “We also felt that would ultimately be to the benefit of everyone, including current and future customers, other Tartan-Legacy dealers, and, of course, ourselves, who had significant investments at stake, not to mention the 45 some people who work in the operation.”

Whiting explained further that when the urgency of the situation became clear, he retained well-known marine industry consultant and former president and CEO of Palmer Johnson Yachts, Phil Friedman, to help evaluate what might be done and, later, to consult in the acquisition.

Friedman, a long-time friend and marine business associate of Whiting’s, described the whirlwind of evaluation and due diligence activities that followed.

“To an outsider with little experience in the recreational marine industry, the speed at which this process moved might seem astounding,” Friedman said. “But in situations like this, accelerated decisions are the norm, not the exception.”

“The fact is, buying and owning a boat manufacturing operation is not for the faint of heart,” Friedman said. “Nor is it something for gentlemen hobbyists or bean-counters in pinstriped suits. It takes talent, hands-on experience in the industry, guts, and a fair measure of tolerance for risk.”

In turn, Whiting said that he was pleased to have Friedman available to help with the reorganization and relaunch of the Tartan Legacy operation because in addition to marine business management experience Friedman also has in-depth background in the construction of both sailing and luxury motor yachts 10- to 50-meter range.

Whiting also pointed out that he and Friedman are being joined on the MMG management team by long-time yacht production pro, Bill Macnab, who spent a couple of decades building boats and yachts in Asia at firms like McConaghy, Prout, Tri-Con, and Allegro — and who, before that, worked for many years at Westbay Sonship in British Columbia, Canada.

“Our main goal at Tartan-Legacy is, in the short term, to improve processes and through-put of the operation, while maintaining the high quality of construction, fit, and finish for which these brands have been known,” Macnab said.

Tim Jackett, Tartan-Legacy’s perennial in-house designer and product development manager will round out the team going forward. “Tim represents the best of what makes the Tartan and Legacy yachts what they are today,” Whiting said. “He brings to the mix a genuine wealth of historical knowledge, solid design sense, and the appetite for constant improvement and innovation.”

The Tartan-Legacy manufacturing operation is being moved to a new 52,000-square-foot facility in Painesville, Ohio, about five miles from its current location. Although only slightly larger than the current facility, the new plant is, according to Macnab, much better laid out for boat building than what Tartan-Legacy has had for the last ten or so years. And the long-term lease at the new facility assures Tartan and Legacy brands will continue to be built in the heartland of America for a long time to come.

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More than 100 Haitian migrants on a sailboat make landfall in Key West

By John MacLauchlan

Updated on: June 26, 2024 / 9:50 PM EDT / CBS Miami

MIAMI - More than 100 migrants were picked up by U.S. Border Patrol agents on Key West early Wednesday morning after coming ashore.

Federal authorities said that 118 Haitian migrants were taken into custody at about 4 a.m after arriving on a large sailboat.

A law enforcement source told CBS News Miami that the group landed on Higgs Beach and it consisted of 91 men, 22 women, and nine children, totaling 122 people — a slight discrepancy with the official count from U.S. Border Patrol. 

Another slight discrepancy, the Monroe Co. Sheriff's Office said there were 117 migrants; 87 men and 30 women and children.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Samuel Briggs II, acting chief patrol agent of the U.S. Border Patrol, said a number of agencies were involved in the operation. 

Key West, FL;  At approximately 4:00 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents with support from federal, state & local law enforcement partners responded to a migrant landing & encountered 118 Haitian migrants. Local EMS is on scene evaluating the individuals. #haiti #florida #keywest pic.twitter.com/5y9FAGamMr — Samuel Briggs II (@USBPChiefMIP) June 26, 2024

An image shared by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office showed dozens of migrants sitting down on what appeared to be a sidewalk; another photo showed the group getting on a bus as local police escorted them. 

One child and one adult were taken to the Lower Keys Medical Center to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries, according to CBS Miami's news partner The Miami Herald.

The sheriff's office said the migrants told deputies that they had been at sea for seven days. 

The migrants were taken to the U.S. Border Patrol processing facility in Dania Beach.

"As the Representative for the Florida Keys, the security of our community is at risk of another mass migration event from Haiti due to the rampant gang violence and the mass release of thousands of violent criminals from the country's jails," said Rep. Carlos Gimenez in a statement. ",,,I demand the Biden Administration implement a comprehensive strategy to address the unrest in Haiti and prevent this security crisis from impacting South Florida families."

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John MacLauchlan is a digital content producer for CBS Miami. He attended Florida State University and graduated with a Communications degree. John joined the CBS Miami digital team in February 2007.

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Euro 2024 reporter notebook: Tartan Army party made me want to be Scottish

A last-gasp defeat to Hungary ended Scotland's hopes of progressing beyond the group stages of Euro 2024; they entered the final round of games with one point following their draw with Switzerland and opening-night loss to Germany

Sky Sports News Chief Reporter

Monday 24 June 2024 11:34, UK

It was a June afternoon in Stuttgart when I first realised I wanted to be Scottish. The feeling may not have lasted long but it was definitely there. I was standing in a park in Germany when the urge to be Scottish overwhelmed me for a brief moment.

Everywhere I looked there were real Scots, and quite a few Germans, drinking and having fun in the sun. The pipers had left the stage and the German DJ had obviously done his homework because he was playing The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond.

There were 10,000 Scots in the Stadtgarden fan park and they didn't have a care in the world. That may sound like a cliche when you are talking about the Tartan Army, but there is no better way of putting it.

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A lot of people in football, especially at UEFA and FIFA, talk a good game about football having the power to unite the world and bring people together. Scotland fans prove that the marketing department might have a point.

Yes, there is much to dislike about modern football but when Maggie May is playing and the sun is shining and thousands of people are singing and dancing, it's just about possible to believe football can be a force for good.

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Some estimates put the number of Scotland fans in Stuttgart at more than 100,000. At least half of them could not have been born the last time their Scotland won a Euros game 28 years ago. None of them had ever seen Scotland qualify for the knockout stages of a major tournament because it had never happened.

That didn't seem to dampen anyone's mood though. This time it was going to be different and if it wasn't, it would hurt and there might be tears, but it wouldn't be the end of the world.

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Call it blind faith, or delusion, or the effects of too much beer in the German sun, but there was even one Scotland fan who was convinced he would be watching Andy Robertson lift the European Championship trophy in Berlin in three weeks.

"What if you are playing Germany or Spain or France or even England in the final?"

"If it's England, we'll beat them, no problem, but if it's Germany, it will be tougher - we'll beat them on penalties."

More and more fans kept arriving and they weren't all Scottish. Word had got around the Germany fan park that the Scotland fan park was the place to be. Thousands of German supporters joined the party and sang along to the unmistakable voice of Aberdeen-born Annie Lennox.

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Hurricane Beryl hits Category 5, breaks record as earliest ever to hit max strength

Editor's note: This page reflects news on Hurricane Beryl from Monday, July 1. For the latest news on Hurricane Beryl , which is now a Category 5 storm, please follow USA TODAY's live updates on the storm for Tuesday, July 2 .

Hurricane Beryl became the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record Monday night when its winds increased to 160 mph as it barreled through the southeastern Caribbean, the National Hurricane Center said.

Beryl shatters the old record by more than two weeks — Hurricane Emily became a Category 5 on July 17, 2005. Forecasters fear that the historically busy hurricane season in 2005 could be repeated this year.

Hurricane hunter reconnaissance flights into the storm Monday found continued strengthening. As of 11 p.m. Monday, Beryl's winds had climbed from 155 mph to 160 mph — becoming a "potentially catastrophic category 5 hurricane," according to the hurricane center.

Beryl's central barometric pressure had dropped to 938 millibars but the hurricane center expects its Category 5 status to be brief, forecasting a steady decline in windspeed with the winds steadily declining.

The hurricane was about 510 miles east-southeast of Isla Beata in the Dominican Republic and traveling west-northwest at 22 mph, the hurricane center said. Its center was on track to move across the southeastern and central Caribbean Sea into Tuesday and is expected to pass near Jamaica on Wednesday.

Beryl is forecast to weaken after reaching Jamaica, according to the hurricane center, but it's expected to remain a hurricane in the northwestern Caribbean.

Beryl tore through the Windward Islands on Monday after making landfall on Grenada’s Carriacou Island as a Category 4 storm at 11:10 a.m., according to the hurricane center. The hurricane had 150 mph winds when its eye made landfall on Carriacou.

Power was out throughout Grenada and residents were advised to shelter in place as Beryl brought down power lines and tore away roofs. The last major hurricane to reach the country's shores was Ivan, which caused widespread devastation with winds of more than 135 mph in 2004.

The government of Jamaica has issued a hurricane warning for the island, according to the hurricane center.

From the island of St. Lucia south to Grenada, streets were littered with parts of trees and personal effects, the Associated Press reported. The lack of electricity and communications outages in the region made it difficult to get accurate reports on injuries and property damage.

The historic Beryl reached tropical storm status Friday before becoming a major hurricane Sunday as it raced toward the Caribbean with winds of 130 mph − a gain of 95 mph in just 42½ hours. Record-warm ocean temperatures led to rapid intensification, a phenomenon that occurs when a storm strengthens by at least 35 mph in a 24-hour period. 

The storm became the earliest Category 4 hurricane on record and the first June major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles. Beryl hit Category 4 status Sunday, but its winds decreased slightly overnight, making it a Category 3 storm Monday. It strengthened again early Monday.

Hurricane Beryl storm tracker: See latest details, projected path of Category 3 storm

Developments:

∎ At least one death was reported in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves said late Monday, adding that there may be more fatalities. Gonsalves noted the widespread devastation in the area with hundreds of homes and buildings damaged or destroyed.

∎ In a statement on Facebook, St. Lucia's Prime Minister Philip Pierre said that the island experienced "strong winds and torrential rains that resulted in flooding, land slippage and property destruction." He added that Beryl "could have been even more severe on our country but we were spared this time from possible disaster."

∎ Storm surge in the Windward Islands could reach 6 to 9 feet above normal tide levels and bring "large, destructive waves" to the coast, the National Hurricane Center said .

∎ Rainfall could cause flooding and is expected to dump 3 to 6 inches in Barbados and the Windward Islands. Up to 10 inches are possible in isolated locations, especially in the Grenadines. 

∎ After Beryl's center moves across the Windward Islands on Monday, the storm will cross the southeastern and central Caribbean Sea late Monday through Wednesday.

How Beryl grew: Hurricane Beryl, super-charged by warm seas, stuns experts

Hurricane Beryl's quick emergence a 'massive warning sign'

An explosive increase in wind speeds, a record for the strongest hurricane this early in the season. Those are ominous signs of what weather experts see as danger ahead in what is expected to be a hyperactive season for major storms.

Hurricane Beryl's stunning transformation from a tropical depression to a major hurricane in less than 42 hours has meteorologists reaching out for superlatives and issuing warnings. This is only the seventh time such a quick rise in category has occurred with an Atlantic storm, and never before had it happened before Sept. 1, the heart of the hurricane season.

"Buckle up. It could be a challenging few months ahead," said chief science officer Steve Bowen of Gallagher Re, a reinsurance firm. "This is a massive warning sign for the rest of the season."

Could Hurricane Beryl hit the US coast? 

After watching Beryl spin up from a tropical depression to a hurricane in a little more than 40 hours, and then slam into the Windward Islands, the big question on the minds of millions of U.S. residents is where the storm could be next weekend and whether it will still be a hurricane. 

Unfortunately, there’s no clear answer yet, and may not be for a couple of days.

On Monday evening, the National Hurricane Center’s forecast track showed Beryl as a tropical storm near the Mexican coast on Saturday afternoon.

“There’s a lot of variables that could occur that can change the direction of a tropical storm, especially when it’s several days out,” said Tawnya Evans, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service field office in Corpus Christi, Texas. 

Windy conditions over the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico could prevent Beryl from maintaining its hurricane status.

A high-pressure ridge sitting over the Gulf could be the deciding factor. If it holds strong, Beryl would continue a more westward track. If the ridge shifts eastward, Beryl could move more northward and potentially threaten the Gulf Coast.

Regardless of its strength or location in the Gulf next weekend, Beryl could bring an increased risk of showers and thunderstorms, along with swells and rip currents to the Texas coast, Corpus Christi’s forecast stated on Monday. 

Puerto Rico forecast to see large swells

The hurricane center expects Beryl to remain a hurricane as it reaches Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Friday.

"The most likely scenario is for the storm to move westward into Mexico," DaSilva said. "However, it is very important to note that if the high pressure across the Southeast weakens, that can allow the storm to move farther north and potentially directly impact the Gulf Coast."

The storm is likely to have some impact on Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory that is home to more than 3 million American citizens. The hurricane center said the island can expect large swells that cause "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions'' in the next day.  

'Full panic mode' in Barbados

Abe and Kristin Homan woke up Monday to the crash of waves on barrier islands just a short walk from their hotel on the southwestern coast of Barbados. From their window, they watched as fierce winds uprooted trees and sent debris flying.

“It’s pretty intense,” Abe Homan, 46, told USA TODAY.

The Homans arrived on the island Tuesday. What started “as a beautiful vacation,” made a dramatic turn over the weekend when the couple realized the severity of the storm, and people “went into full panic mode,” Homan said. They searched for a way back to South Carolina on Sunday, but it was too late. The planes were fully booked and the airport was soon shut down. Back at the Sandals resort, stranded vacationers and some of the staff were distraught.

“They were just so confused, and almost crying,” said Abe Homan, who runs a technology company based in his home state.

Later Monday, the Barbados government discontinued the hurricane warning. Now, the Homans are hoping to return to their four children in South Carolina by the Fourth of July.

− Christopher Cann

Beryl on the move: Hurricane Beryl an 'extremely dangerous' Cat 4 storm as it roars toward Caribbean

Grenada authorities warn residents to stay indoors

Dr. Terence Walters, the national disaster coordinator for Grenada, urged residents to gather documents and put them and other necessities in plastic bags. Walters, speaking at a briefing early Monday, warned residents not to go outside but said Beryl could damage or destroy some homes. Even if a house suffers damage, residents might be safer hiding in a bathroom rather than making a run for a government shelter, Walters said. About 3,000 people were in shelters awaiting the storm, he said.

"If your house is damaged or destroyed, you have to use good judgment before you make a decision to get to safety," he said.

Barbados weather worsens: 'Do not go anywhere'

In Barbados, about 160 miles northeast of Carriacou, Home Affairs and Information Minister Wilfred Abrahams told residents “do not go anywhere until the all clear is given." Abrahams said some power lines were down and some of the island's 280,000 people were in the dark. More than 35,000 homes and businesses − about a quarter of Barbados Light & Power customers − were without power, the company said.

The worst of the storm has passed, but more damage was expected, Abrahams said. A "drone team" was ready to survey the island and help determine where work crews will be sent, he said.

Abrahams said the sun was coming out and he could see from comments on social media that many people were anxious about what happened.

“I know in the day of social media, everybody wants to be first to get something out," he told Barbados Today . "You want to be the first to have a video. You want to be the first to show something, you want to be first to show house damage. Don’t do that in a way that might cost you your life."

Riding out Hurricane Beryl in St. Lucia: 'We'll just kind of wing it'

Among those hunkering down for the storm was Linda Dancer, a travel agent from Charlotte, North Carolina, who arrived in St. Lucia on Saturday for an award ceremony. Over the last two days, she's watched as staff at the Sandals Grande St. Lucian resort installed plywood over windows, laid out sandbags and removed chandeliers. Dancer, 63, planned on staying in her room as the hurricane lashed the island.

“It was really sunny this morning, but we have outer bands coming in so it’s getting gray and darker out now,” she told USA TODAY. “I’m not taking my eyes off the weather app.”

While stocking her fridge at a Sandals resort on the west side of the island, Dancer has also been coordinating with clients whose vacations and honeymoons have been interrupted by the hurricane.

“Some of them … they're scared but you can’t leave at this point,” she said. “Some are like, ‘It's not that big a deal, we'll just kind of wing it.’”

What is rapid intensification?

Rapid intensification is a process in which a storm undergoes accelerated growth. The phenomenon is typically defined to be a tropical cyclone (whether a tropical storm or hurricane) intensifying by at least 35 mph in a 24-hour period.

"Rapid intensification occurs when a tropical storm or hurricane encounters an extremely conducive environment," Colorado State University hurricane researcher  Phil Klotzbach said . "Typically, this environment consists of very warm water, low vertical wind shear and high levels of midlevel moisture."

What are the Windward Islands?

The Windward Islands are the group of Caribbean islands in the eastern part of the Caribbean Sea. They include Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada. Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago are sometimes included in the group.

They are called "windward"  − which means upward from a given point − because they are more windward to arriving ships than the Leeward Islands.

Downgraded Tropical Storm Chris still a threat in Mexico

Tropical Storm Chris, the third named storm of the season, eased to tropical depression status after crashing across the Mexican coastline near Veracruz overnight. The storm was forecast to produce rainfall totals of 4 to 8 inches across parts of eastern Mexico earlier Monday, with maximum rainfall totals around 12 inches in higher terrain of the Mexican states of Guanajuato, Queretaro and San Luis Potosi.

"This rainfall will result in areas of flooding, with mudslides possible in areas of higher terrain," the National Weather Service said.

What is the 2024 hurricane season forecast?

Federal forecasters have predicted a hurricane season unlike any other , with as many as 25 named storms possible.

It is the most storms the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has ever predicted in a preseason outlook. "All the ingredients are in place for an active season," National Weather Service director Ken Graham said in May.

NOAA director Rick Spinrad said the Atlantic hurricane season is shaping up to be "extraordinary" − an 85% chance for an above-average year. "The forecast … is the highest NOAA has ever issued for the May outlook," he said.

Hurricane Beryl Spaghetti models

Hurricane beryl trajectory.

Contributing: Doyle Rice and Christopher Cann, USA TODAY; Reuters