Warrior 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Trident Warrior 40 began production in 1988, continuing Trident Marine's legacy of crafting sturdy vessels designed to tackle challenging seas. While the exact end year of its production is not definitively documented, examples have been noted as late as 1997, with MkII versions appearing in the mid-1990s. Trident Marine, founded in 1968 by John Brown in Portchester, Hampshire, United Kingdom, built its reputation on solid, reliable cruising yachts, prioritizing durability and low maintenance through fiberglass construction. This philosophy carried through to the Warrior 40, which was conceived as a classic offshore cruising boat. The design collaboration between Angus Primrose and Bill Dixon aimed to create a vessel known for its rugged build and comfortable offshore handling, aligning perfectly with Trident Marine's focus on stability, comfort, and safety over outright speed. While there were no widely documented alternative versions beyond the standard model, the existence of a "Warrior 40 Mk II" suggests refinements were made during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trident Warrior 40 is characterized by its substantial build and emphasis on seaworthiness. With a displacement of 18,739 lbs and a waterline length of 31.27 ft, the boat has a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 273.7, placing it firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This weight contributes significantly to its stable and comfortable motion at sea. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 0.44 (8,267 lbs ballast in a 18,739 lbs displacement) indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to a considerable amount of wind and maintaining a comfortable heel angle.

While specific total sail area figures are not consistently documented, the Warrior 40 is noted for its "generous sail plan" which reportedly delivers excellent light-air performance. Owners and reviewers often describe the Warrior 40 as a stable, seaworthy, and comfortable ship, praised for its rugged build and offshore handling. It is considered a weatherly boat, capable of carrying a good amount of sail, though it might not offer "thrills on the wind" in terms of outright speed. The long fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to its proven blue-water capabilities, ensuring good tracking and control in various sea states. Some observations suggest that despite its theoretically high form stability, the 5-foot draft for its size might present some nuanced handling characteristics, but overall, it remains a highly regarded vessel for its sea-keeping abilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Trident Warrior 40 is designed for extended cruising comfort, often praised for packing substantial accommodation into its 40-foot length. While specific headroom figures vary and are not readily available, the layout typically features a functional and practical arrangement. Common configurations include a spacious V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, and a well-appointed galley. The interior finish generally reflects Trident Marine's focus on robust, quality construction, often incorporating warm wood trim alongside durable fiberglass elements. Storage is typically ample, catering to the needs of long-distance cruisers. Depending on the specific build and any owner modifications, the Warrior 40 can feature one or two heads, with an aft head configuration visible in some examples. The design aims to provide a comfortable and protected living space, suitable for challenging conditions and extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trident Warrior 40 consistently praise its solid construction and reliable performance as a blue-water cruiser. Many have reported clocking significant mileage with "virtually trouble-free" experiences, highlighting the boat's enduring quality and robust engineering. Owners often express delight with their vessels, some having owned them from new for over a decade and accumulated tens of thousands of miles without major defects. The Warrior 40 is generally regarded as a forgiving platform, offering a comfortable motion at sea and instilling confidence in its ability to handle demanding conditions. The community of owners values the boat's seaworthiness, comfortable offshore handling, and overall build quality. While no widespread "common problems" are frequently cited, the general consensus among owners points to a boat that lives up to its reputation for durability and capability in serious voyaging.