Trintella II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The narrative of the Trintella II began in 1966, building upon the successful foundation laid by earlier Trintella models. E.G. van de Stadt, a pioneer in Dutch yacht design, was instrumental in shaping the Trintella lineage, including the Trintella II and IIa. Van de Stadt's design philosophy was rooted in innovation and practicality, aiming to create seaworthy vessels that also offered good performance. He was also a proponent of industrial yacht building, streamlining production while maintaining high standards.

During this era, the Anne Wever Shipyard was making a strategic transition to Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, allowing for more efficient "mass production" while strictly adhering to their stringent quality benchmarks, a move that defined their reputation for meticulous yet efficient yacht construction. The Trintella II exemplifies this shift, featuring a solid fiberglass hull and deck material, ensuring durability and ease of maintenance for owners.

A notable variation during its production run was the Trintella IIA. This evolved version incorporated significant changes below the waterline, most notably a shorter keel, which altered the boat's trim, causing the aft section to sit higher above the water. These modifications aimed to refine the boat's characteristics, reflecting the shipyard's continuous effort to improve their designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella II, with a length overall of 31 feet and a waterline length of 24.01 feet, is characterized by its long keel hull type, a design choice known for promoting directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a reported sail area of 550 square feet and a displacement of 9,590 pounds, her Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 19.5 suggests a capable performer in lighter airs, without pushing into the realm of high-performance racing yachts.

The vessel's Ballast to Displacement ratio of nearly 46% is relatively high, indicating a stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a breeze and inspire confidence in challenging conditions. Furthermore, her Displacement to Length ratio of around 309.5 firmly places her in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, consistent with the Anne Wever Shipyard's reputation for building robust and exceptionally seaworthy yachts.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Trintella II is generally a good sailing boat, though proper trim is essential as a poorly trimmed vessel can feel heavy to steer. Owners appreciate its good handling under sail, long-term comfort at sea, and the reduced risk of crew fatigue on extended passages, qualities inherent in its long-keel design. The design allows it to perform competitively, sometimes even surpassing larger vessels of its era.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior layout details for the Trintella II are not extensively documented in the provided data, the Anne Wever Shipyard was renowned for producing luxurious yachts with exceptional workmanship. Trintellas of this era typically featured well-appointed interiors, often characterized by quality wood trim and thoughtful layouts designed for comfortable cruising.

For a 31-foot long-keel cruiser of its time, a common arrangement would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is generally ample on cruising boats of this type, designed to accommodate provisions and gear for extended trips. The overall finish quality would have reflected the builder's commitment to high standards, with sturdy, well-crafted joinery and durable materials.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Trintella yachts, including the Trintella II, consistently praise the solid construction and comfortable motion of these vessels, particularly in a seaway. The enduring quality of these Dutch-built cruisers is a frequently mentioned strength, contributing to their appeal as durable yachts that offer long-term comfort at sea. The active Trintella owners' community, the "Trintella Vriendenkring," further attests to the shared pride and support among owners of these classic yachts.

While generally well-regarded, some common considerations for older vessels like the Trintella II might include maintenance of original deck fittings, which can occasionally develop leaks requiring re-bedding. Additionally, as noted earlier, optimizing trim is important to ensure the boat handles at its best, preventing a heavy helm. Overall, the Trintella II remains a respected classic, valued for its robust build and capable cruising characteristics.