TARTAN 34 C

About the TARTAN 34 C

S&S Design No. 1904. The letter "C" has been adopted on the used boat market, "classic", identifying it as the first 34 from Tartan. The second TARTAN 34, which is also a S&S design, is commonly referred to as the TARTAN 34-2. There was an option (rarely selected) to substitute a pilot berth for the cabinet storage to port, over and outboard of the dinette. The foot of the mainsail was shortened from the original design at least twice to improve balance and/or to lower it's IOR rating. Hull 125 and later: E = 12.0' Hull 200 and later: E = 10.5' (displayed here) A yawl rig was advertised as an option.

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens and built by Tartan Marine (USA) from 1968–1978, the Tartan 34 C is a robust cruising sloop with a production run of 525 hulls. Its heavy displacement of 11200.0 lb and full keel design reflect the classic, seakworthy ethos of late-1960s American yachtbuilding.

Best for:

This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and those seeking a stable, comfortable passage maker, as evidenced by the high frequency of dodger and cockpit canvas upgrades aimed at enhancing liveaboard comfort. Its moderate performance ratios suggest it prioritizes safety and ease of handling over speed, making it ideal for relaxed weekend cruising or extended coastal passages.

Bluewater capability:

With a displacement of 11200.0 lb, a capsize ratio of 1.82, and a full/long keel, the Tartan 34 C possesses strong inherent stability and seakeeping ability suitable for offshore passages, provided the hull integrity is maintained.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include the Tartan 34 (non-C) and other Sparkman & Stephens designs from the same era, such as the Cal 34 or O'Day 35, which share similar displacement, full-keel characteristics, and a focus on traditional cruising comfort. These vessels appeal to buyers seeking proven, conservative designs with ample interior volume and proven offshore heritage.