Frequently Asked Questions
This page evolves based on questions and feedback from our community. If you have additional questions, please submit them through our contact page, and you may find the answers here in the future.
Power or Sail?
As Jere Lull once said: "A powerboater gets in his boat to go someplace; a sailor steps onboard and is already there." With rising fuel costs and the growing desire to go green, sailing appears to be the way to go.
Water ballast versus fixed lead or cast iron ballast - Is the boat tender without a typical keel?
The answer can be broken down into three key aspects:
1. The centerboard allows for minimum draft – a significant advantage when exploring shallow waters. The centerboard can be partially dropped according to the water depth.
2. For proper seaworthiness, in-hull ballast must be firmly secured to prevent movement between the ballast and hull. It should be positioned as low as possible to maintain the lowest center of gravity (water is less effective compared to lead pellets at a ratio of about 9.5:1, and cast iron blocks at 8:1).
3. When combined with a canoe-like hull cross-section rather than a V-shaped power hull, this results in the remarkable stability that TES sailboat owners admire. This design makes Fine TES Sailboats seaworthy shallow draft cruisers with CE "B" certification.
Why do TES sailboats use a swing centerboard instead of a vertically dropped dagger board?
While a dagger board uses less cabin space, it won't automatically lift when hitting shallow water, potentially causing damage to either the board or hull.
In contrast, TES boats feature a pivoted swing centerboard that can retract completely into the hull upon hitting shallow water. The board, made of ½-inch solid zinc-plated or stainless steel, uses its weight to slow the boat when dragging against the bottom.
The semi-flat central hull portion allows the boat to sit level on tidal waters at low tide. Additionally, the centerboard lifting line is concealed inside the centerboard trunk above the water level.
How do TES sailboats lower their masts on the water with the A-frame on their front decks?
The A-frame is part of an easy mast raising system that allows a single person to lower/raise the mast from the cockpit without external assistance. While popular in Europe, this system is relatively new to North American sailors. Inside stays secure the mast laterally to prevent side-to-side movement. This system is essential for clearing bridges while underway. We encourage you to ask TES owners about their experience or contact our dealers for more information.
How long will the balsa core last?
TES Yachts don't use balsa core in their manufacturing process. The hull is constructed of multi-layer solid fiberglass core, while the deck features Airex core, which resists moisture deterioration.
Is a crane required to launch a TES Yacht?
No, due to their shallow draft, all swing-keel versions of TES Yachts can be launched anywhere a speedboat can be launched.
Will my new boat be custom-built to order, or is it from inventory?
Your new boat will be custom-built to order specifically for you.
Do I need to worry about freezing water or algae growth in the water-ballast compartments during winter?
TES Yachts use solid weighted ballast rather than water-ballast. Therefore, there's no risk of freezing in winter or algae growth.