Trapper TS240 Information, Review, Specs

The Trapper TS240 entered production in 1980, emerging from the lineage of a company with a strong pedigree in fiberglass yacht construction. The sailboat is a modified version of the earlier Starflash, a design also penned by Ed Dubois and initially built by Blue Water Yachts Ltd. This company was subsequently acquired by Trapper Yachts in the late 1970s, which itself was the rebranded Anstey Yachts Ltd. after its acquisition by The Granary Group in 1974. Anstey Yachts, and later Trapper Yachts, had established a reputation for collaborating with leading designers to bring well-built GRP vessels to life.

Ed Dubois, known for his ability to craft successful Grand Prix racing yachts, designed the initial lines for his creations by hand, emphasizing high-quality naval architecture. His design philosophy translated into the TS240 being a light, high-performance sailboat, reflecting a focus on speed and responsiveness for its size. The TS240 is particularly notable for its hydraulically powered lifting keel, allowing for a minimum draft of just 1.35 feet for access to shallow areas and a maximum draft of 5.5 feet for enhanced sailing performance. [5, A fixed-keel variant, known as the Trapper T250, was also available, alongside a "tandem keel" option. [4,

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trapper TS240 is characterized as a fast cruiser/racer, known for being a high-performer for its size. Owners and reviewers often describe it as a light and stiff sailboat. It boasts a fractional rig, which contributes to its lively performance and makes sail handling more manageable. The design incorporates a significant amount of sail area, giving it more rig than many comparable sailboats, suggesting good performance in lighter winds, though potentially requiring earlier reefing in stronger conditions. The TS240 is said to possess sailing capabilities akin to the excellent 1/4 ton Starflash, highlighting its racing pedigree and nimble handling. Its lifting keel system is a key feature, enabling it to excel in exploring shallow waterways by allowing the keel to be raised and lowered vertically.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Trapper TS240, while compact, is designed to offer essential cruising amenities. It typically features a single cabin providing four berths, complete with cushions. This arrangement usually includes sleeping for a small crew or family. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, some owners have noted the interior offers limited standing headroom, indicative of a boat designed primarily for performance and trailability. The layout generally incorporates a small galley area and a dedicated head compartment, making it suitable for weekend trips and coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trapper TS240 frequently praise the boat for its robust construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many express a strong fondness for the model, with one former owner fondly recalling it as a "great little boat" and "tough as they come." The active Trapper Owners Association further attests to a dedicated community.

However, common discussion points among owners often revolve around the boat's hydraulic lifting keel system. While highly valued for its shallow-draft capabilities, the original hydraulic pump motor can be prone to issues if not meticulously maintained, with corrosion being a concern. Manual pumping of the keel can be laborious, especially in adverse conditions or with an outboard engine in the well. Another minor maintenance point noted by owners includes sail slides sticking, a problem typically resolved with proper lubrication. These considerations highlight the importance of diligent maintenance to fully enjoy the versatile capabilities of the Trapper TS240.