The Tartan 34-2 is an exceptionally well-built boat.   The T-34-2 sails easily in light air and can handle a blow.  It is very sturdy and goes to weather well. The boat is considered tender by some, heeling to about 15-20 degrees, but settles easily and is very stable.  Many recommend reefing at 15 knots and above.  
    With the Scheel keel the boat tracks exceptionally well, but does sacrifice some pointing ability.  The ballast is 40% of the displacement weight.
    The cockpit is very spacious and comfortable, with the traveler just ahead of the helm for easy single-handing, and easy for the crew.  A dodger over the front of the cockpit, and bimini over the helm, make for comfortable and dry sailing.
    Deck layout is very good. All halyards and control lines are led aft.  Winches are well located for single handling, easily reached by the helmsman.  Only the leach reefing line is  led aft.  You must go to the mast to hook the reefing cringles on the luff to the reefing horn.  Non-slip surfaces are effective.
    The anchor is stored in a deck locker on the port side in the 84-85 model, and in a bow anchor locker in the 86-89 model.  Both models often came with an anchor roller.  



   

    The engine is responsive, easily pushing the boat at 6+ knots at under 2000 RPMs.  It is relatively quiet and light on maintenance requirements.
    The boat has exceptional ventilation, with 8 opening portlights, forward and mid-ship hatches, a solar vent in the head, and 2 cowl vents over the nav station and galley.
     The interior has a comfortable and efficient layout, with a beautifully finished teak interior.  It has 2 full-length settees, one of which is a pull-out double.  The galley has an icebox, and a CNG oven with 3 burner stove.   The head is outfitted with a sink, toilet, and shower.  It is spacious and convenient.
    The T34-2 could be ordered with aluminum or teak toerails.  We prefer the aluminum as they require less maintenance, are convenient for clipping on the harness, and easily take snatch-blocks and bumpers.  They are not as beautiful as teak.
    Handrails are teak and are properly placed on the cabin top, and the side decks are very wide.
    Double lifelines create a sense of security, and they are interrupted on both sides by a entry/exit gate for easy access.
    The starboard lazarette is very large and can store lots of gear, including the CNG tank.