Tartan sailboats and many astronauts have several things in common, among them being symbols of American pride and originating from Ohio. The new Tartan 395, another Tim Jackett design, is a 39-footer that seems to be blasting off without forgetting where it came from. The 395 definitely looks like a Tartan with a more traditional profile that includes a long coach roof and gentle sheer line.
Like just about all Tartans, the large interior is a draw and even features a generous, old-school nav table to port across from the galley. The salon boasts seating that wraps around a foldable table built around the stepped mast. Large berths are located forward in the V and aft. Light maple, cherry, and teak finishes are all options that all look great.
Above, the deep cockpit is well sheltered by large coamings and hosts twin steering pedestals. A prominent navigation pedestal, not a crammed-in mini-bar, sits in the center. Further aft, there is a fold-out transom that can turn into a swim platform. After a step over the coamings, the walkways are wide with lifeline support up to the bow. This is a sailing yacht well suited to medium-sized groups of varying skill levels.
Below the water, the 395 comes with keel options: deep fin, standard beaver tail, or keel/centerboard. It’s interesting too that Tartans use lead ballast instead of iron.
The rig looks to be top notch with carbon fiber components used throughout. One example is that the 395 has carbon fiber double spreaders as standard.
Also notable with the rigging is the Tartan cruise control rig sail plan that utilizes two headsails; a self-tacking jib on the inner stay and code zero reacher on the outer stay. This should give the skipper plenty of versatile options that can be controlled easily from the cockpit.
All told, Tartan is a long-lived American production sailboat builder who’s still got it. The new 395 is a proper mid-sized yacht that should make for comfortable and easy sailing for family and friends. If interested, you can contact local dealer Seattle Yachts for pricing and more information.
