[1][3][4] The Tartan Ten is a recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with aluminum spars.

It has a 7/8 fractional sloop rig, a raked stem, a reverse transom, an internally mounted spade-type rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed fin keel.

The galley is located amidships and includes a manual pump sink and a portable ice box.

[3] Lacking any cabin windows, ventilation is provided by a large deck hatch on the foredeck, which is also used to pass sails below for storage.

The citation, written by Josh Adams of Sail Magazine, noted, "Tartan Marine’s effect on the racing community with the T10 went beyond the boat.

The all purpose mission of the Tartan Ten: ready for offshore, good around the buoys, and fun for the small-family cruise or daysail.