Trapper 500/501 Information, Review, Specs

Originating from a proven Canadian hull design, the Trapper 500/501 earned a reputation as a well-engineered and practical sailboat, appealing to both burgeoning sailors and those seeking a reliable and enjoyable cruiser.

History and Design

The story of the Trapper 500/501 begins with its roots in North American design excellence. Its hull is identical to the Canadian-designed C&C 27 Mark I, a popular and performance-oriented design. However, while the C&C 27 typically featured lead keels, the Trapper versions were built with cast iron keels, contributing to a slightly lighter displacement for the British-built boats. Production of the Trapper 500 commenced in 1977, with Deacons Boat Yard taking over the successful Trapper line in 1972 after acquiring Anstey Yachts in Poole, who initially produced fiberglass yachts under license from C&C.

The Trapper 501 emerged in 1981, built on the same tried-and-tested hull as the 500 but featuring a re-designed coach roof and updated inner moldings. Notably, later models of the Trapper 500 also incorporated these improved 501 interior moldings, blurring the lines between the two versions in the later years of production. Deacons continued to build the Trapper 500/501 until 1987, producing approximately 600 units in total, cementing their role as a significant fiberglass yacht builder during this period. Powering these vessels, early models were fitted with 12hp Dolphin gasoline engines, while later iterations saw a transition to more reliable 10 hp Yanmar diesel engines.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trapper 500/501 boasts a well-balanced design that translates into capable and responsive sailing characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.4, she exhibits good performance, particularly in lighter air, allowing her to move efficiently even when the wind is soft. Her ballast to displacement ratio, around 48.5%, is notably high, indicating a stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a breeze, resisting excessive heel and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio, at about 212.5, places her firmly in the moderate displacement category, suggesting a design that balances cruising comfort with a respectable turn of speed, leaning more towards performance than a heavy, traditional cruiser.

Owners frequently praise the Trapper 500/501 for its sailing prowess, noting its good performance across various conditions and its commendable ability to sail to windward in strong winds. While some owners have noted that the boat can be a bit wet in certain conditions, its overall speed and handling are considered very good on most points of sail. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Trapper 501, with its different rudder design, may have addressed some handling characteristics, potentially improving upon the original 500's behavior.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length of 27 feet, the Trapper 500/501 is noted for providing good accommodation, with the later 501 interior considered particularly effective. The generous beam contributes to a comfortable and attractive living space below decks, typically featuring a largely open-plan layout designed to sleep up to six individuals. While precise details can vary between individual boats due to owner modifications and factory options, a common arrangement would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is generally considered adequate for coastal cruising, and ventilation would typically rely on deck hatches and portlights. For a boat of its size, the Trapper 500/501 offers a practical and functional interior, suitable for short cruises and weekend trips for a couple or small family, though the cockpit has been described as a bit cramped for extended stays.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trapper 500/501 generally hold their vessels in high regard, describing them as "fine cruising boats for their size" that sail commendably well. The robust construction and seaworthy feel are frequently highlighted as significant strengths. Many owners have enjoyed their Trappers for extended periods, some for over two decades, attesting to their enduring appeal and reliability.

However, common recurring issues identified by owners often center around original fittings and deck integrity. A frequently noted weakness involves the stanchion bases, which were often considered poor from the factory and typically require beefing up by owners to prevent issues. Furthermore, the balsa-cored deck, while offering stiffness and light weight, can be susceptible to water ingress, with seepage through areas like chainplates being a primary concern for many owners. These issues, while common, are generally considered manageable and correctable, with the consensus being that the Trapper 500/501 is fundamentally a "well-designed, well-built boat with a few disappointing superficial features, mostly ones that can be corrected."