Stortriss Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Stortriss Mk II commenced in 1969 and continued until 1977, forming part of ABC Fabrikerna's diverse output from their facility in Ytterby, Sweden. ABC Fabrikerna, or AB Bröderna Claesson, was a significant Swedish manufacturer known for its wide array of sports and leisure products. Their design philosophy for boats, including the Stortriss series, was rooted in practicality and accessibility, catering to the general leisure market with open boat models focused on ease of use and family recreation.

The Stortriss Mk II built upon the success of its predecessor, the Stortriss Mk I. The primary distinction of the Mk II lies in its cabin design, which extends to the full width of the hull, offering increased interior volume compared to the Mk I's standard trunk cabin with side decks. This model was also made available with an optional lifting keel, providing versatility for shallower waters. The hull itself features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a configuration chosen for balanced handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 17.22 feet and a waterline length of 15.42 feet, the Stortriss Mk II is designed for nimble performance in various conditions. Designer Per Brohäll aimed for an average hull design, striking a balance between performance and stability suitable for a small recreational craft. Owners often use the Stortriss Mk II for sailing in the archipelagos, fjords, and inland lakes of Scandinavia, suggesting its suitability for sheltered to moderately exposed coastal waters and day-sailing excursions. Its fractional sloop rig provides a manageable sail plan, contributing to its ease of handling for both novice and experienced sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on the interior layout are limited, the Stortriss Mk II is recognized for its cabin design that utilizes the full beam of the hull, distinguishing it from the narrower cabin of the Mk I. This design choice maximizes the available interior space for a boat of its size. The interior typically features mahogany finishes, contributing to a classic marine aesthetic. For a boat of its length, the accommodations are generally spartan, geared towards day-sailing or simple overnight trips rather than extended cruising. Prospective owners would find basic facilities, with emphasis on functional use of space. Grounded search indicates that discussions among owners often revolve around making the most of the limited interior for sleeping or storage, implying a compact but functional arrangement.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Stortriss Mk II frequently praise its solid construction and suitability for recreational sailing in popular Swedish waterways. Discussions in online forums highlight its appeal as a robust and reliable small cruiser or day-sailer. While specific common problems related to the boat's inherent construction are not widely cited as recurring issues, general maintenance topics like engine performance and questions about structural integrity (such as watertight bulkheads) do appear in owner discussions, reflecting the typical concerns of maintaining an older fiberglass boat. The Stortriss Mk II holds a special place for many as a gateway to sailing, appreciated for its simplicity and the opportunity it provides to explore diverse coastal and inland waters.