Tripp 40 MH Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Tripp 40 MH entered production in 1990, a product of the collaboration between celebrated naval architect William H. Tripp III and Carroll Marine, a builder established in 1984. Carroll Marine, founded by Janice and Barry Carroll, quickly earned a reputation for constructing high-performance racing yachts using cutting-edge materials and innovative techniques. William Tripp III, who founded Tripp Design Naval Architecture in 1984, developed a design philosophy centered on creating "highly efficient yachts" and a belief that "boats are always getting better".

The Tripp 40 MH specifically designates a masthead-rigged version of the Tripp 40, as the model was also available with a fractional rig. Carroll Marine consistently partnered with leading designers, including Tripp, to ensure their vessels were not only fast but also aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. While the production run continued for some years, Carroll Marine ceased its sailboat manufacturing operations in 2003, making the Tripp 40 MH a testament to their influential period in performance yacht construction. Forum discussions indicate there may have been variations such as a "Tripp 40 (mark 2)".

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tripp 40 MH's design translates into an exhilarating sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 22.3, she exhibits excellent light-air performance, a characteristic often noted by owners who say the boat "flies upwind, especially in light winds". This high ratio suggests that the Tripp 40 MH can efficiently harness minimal breeze, providing lively performance even when the wind is light.

Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.449 points to a stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a significant amount of wind without excessive heeling. This attribute contributes to both comfort and performance, particularly when sailing in choppier conditions or higher winds. SailboatLab describes the Tripp 40 as "very stable / stiff" and a "very high performer".

The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 290.38, positions the Tripp 40 MH as a moderately heavy boat for her length, indicative of a solid, well-built performance cruiser rather than an ultra-light displacement racer. This robust construction contributes to her "excellent seakeeping" abilities, making her a capable vessel for ocean passages. The Tripp 40 MH, with her fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for responsive handling and precise control.

Accommodations and Layout

The Tripp 40 MH is a substantial yacht designed to offer "spacious accommodations" for a vessel of her size. While specific interior layouts can vary, a 40-foot performance cruiser of this era typically features a well-appointed interior suitable for comfortable cruising. Essential amenities like a 25-gallon water capacity are standard, supporting extended time aboard. The interior design would generally emphasize functional living spaces, providing comfortable berths, a practical galley, and a dedicated head compartment, all while maintaining the robust finish expected from Carroll Marine.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Tripp 40 MH frequently commend its strong sailing performance, particularly its prowess upwind. Many appreciate its dual nature as both a competitive racer and a comfortable cruiser. The solid construction and stable motion in a seaway are often highlighted as significant strengths, fulfilling Carroll Marine's reputation for robustly built yachts. However, like many boats of its vintage, discussions among owners in forums occasionally touch upon potential issues such as "osmosis", suggesting that prospective buyers should consider a thorough survey, although detailed specifics regarding prevalence or severity are not widely documented.