Invicta (Tripp) Information, Review, Specs

The Pearson Invicta's production run spanned from 1960 to 1965. Its design emerged from the drawing board of William Tripp Jr., an American naval architect known for creating numerous popular wooden and later fiberglass sailboats. Tripp's design philosophy for the Invicta reportedly followed the concept of the acclaimed Finisterre, suggesting an emphasis on performance while maintaining offshore capabilities. Pearson Yachts, as the builder, was a pioneer in the adoption of fiberglass as a primary boatbuilding material, known for its robust construction and commitment to making sailing accessible through innovative designs. Pearson's ethos during this period centered on producing high-quality, yet affordable, auxiliary sailboats for a broad market.

Throughout its production, the Invicta saw a significant variation: the initial flush deck version was superseded in 1964 by the Invicta II, which featured a more conventional coach roof. This alteration aimed to provide more interior volume and standing headroom, a common preference for cruising yachts, compared to the original flush deck configuration which prioritizes a clean deck for racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pearson Invicta's specifications translate into a distinctive sailing profile. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.66, the Invicta is not optimized for light-air performance but is likely to excel as the wind builds, indicating a robust and powerful rig for its displacement. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 37.66% suggests a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind before excessive heeling.

Perhaps most indicative of its heritage and design philosophy is its high Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 428.5. This classifies the Invicta as a heavy, traditional cruiser for its waterline length, implying a comfortable and stable motion, particularly in a seaway. This substantial displacement contributes to a feeling of solidity and capability offshore, aligning with its reputation as an ocean racer. The boat's triumph in the Newport-to-Bermuda Race serves as direct evidence of its strong performance capabilities, especially in challenging offshore conditions. The Invicta also features a centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft between 4.5 feet minimum and 7.7 feet maximum, which offers flexibility for accessing shallower waters while still providing significant draft for upwind performance when needed.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior schematics are limited in available public information, the Pearson Invicta, particularly the later coach-roofed Invicta II, was designed to balance its racing pedigree with cruising comforts. The original flush-decked version was characterized by its sleek, uncluttered exterior, which might have implied a more spartan interior focused on racing efficiency. However, the introduction of the Invicta II with its standard coach roof in 1964 would have significantly improved interior volume and headroom, a common advantage of such designs., 21]

Typical for yachts of its era and class, the Invicta would likely feature a traditional interior arrangement, possibly including a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a salon with settees that could convert into berths, and a galley. Pearson Yachts generally utilized fiberglass for the hull and deck, often complemented by warm wood trim throughout the interior, which was characteristic of the period's boatbuilding practices. Owners of classic Pearson models often appreciate the durable construction and functional layouts, designed for practical use whether racing or cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Pearson Invicta frequently engage in online forums and communities, discussing various aspects of the boat's design, construction, and sailing characteristics. While owners generally praise the overall quality and enduring performance of these classic yachts, a recurring topic in owner discussions pertains to potential maintenance items. One specific issue sometimes noted by owners is the tendency for the prop shaft to become bent, often attributed to lines or debris fouling the propeller. This highlights the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of the running gear for owners of these venerable vessels. The active owner community underscores the Invicta's lasting appeal and the shared commitment to preserving these historic fiberglass pioneers.