Trinka 12 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Trinka 12 commenced in 1990, building upon Johannsen Boat Works' established reputation for producing well-engineered and durable small boats. The company, officially founded in 1985 by Mark Johannsen, already had a strong foundation with its highly regarded Trinka tenders, underscoring an early focus on utility and robust construction. The design of the Trinka 12 is attributed to Bruce Kirby, a designer known for creating simple, engaging, and high-performance sailing dinghies.

The Trinka 12 features a simple yet effective cat rig, also known as an una rig, which is characterized by having no standing rigging, making it easy to manage and rig. Its hull is constructed from solid fiberglass, reflecting Johannsen Boat Works' consistent approach to building durable and stable small craft. The boat's design incorporates a daggerboard, allowing for variable draft (from a minimum of 0.42 feet to a maximum of 2.83 feet) and excellent adaptability for launching, beaching, or optimizing performance under sail.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 12-foot sailing dinghy, the Trinka 12 is designed for lively performance and responsive handling. Owners frequently describe the boat as fun and easy to sail. Despite its compact size, it offers a surprisingly dry ride in various conditions. The Trinka 12 is equipped with a self-draining cockpit, a practical feature that allows the boat to be moored without accumulating rainwater, enhancing its versatility as a tender or day sailer.

While it handles well and is generally considered stable for a dinghy, like many boats in its class, it can be somewhat "tippy" or "tender" under sail, as noted by some experienced sailors. This characteristic is inherent to light displacement dinghies and contributes to its engaging and responsive feel on the water, making it an enjoyable craft for those seeking a direct connection to the elements.

Accommodations and Layout

The Trinka 12, being an open sailing dinghy, does not feature enclosed accommodations or a traditional interior layout with headroom, a galley, or berths. Instead, its design focuses on maximizing the utility and comfort within its open cockpit. The sit-in cockpit provides a secure and comfortable space for the crew while sailing or rowing. Its robust fiberglass construction ensures durability for its role as a versatile sailing or rowing tender. The open nature also allows for easy access and minimal maintenance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trinka 12 generally express high satisfaction with its performance and build quality. Many appreciate its ease of rigging and the straightforward pleasure of sailing it. Its attributes make it a popular choice for recreational day sailing and even as a compact, engaging racer.

For those considering it as a tender, owners note its robust build and reliability. However, its size and weight (225 lbs displacement) mean it might be a bit too large and heavy to serve as a tender on a boat without a powered davit system for easy launching and retrieval. While generally well-regarded for its durability, some instances of older or rental boats requiring repairs, such as hull separation, have been noted, highlighting the importance of inspecting used models. The enduring appeal of the Trinka 12 among its owners underscores its success as a well-designed, versatile, and enjoyable small sailboat.