Trintella 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Trintella 29 begins in 1967, during a pivotal era for Trintella Yachts. The builder, Anne Wever's Jachtwerf Anne Wever, was a pioneer in Europe, having embraced Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction methods since 1961. The Trintella 29, like many early Trintella models, benefited from the design expertise of Ricus van de Stadt, a frequent collaborator with Anne Wever who was instrumental in shaping both the early steel Trintels and the pioneering GRP Trintella lines. Van de Stadt's design philosophy for these early GRP vessels emphasized seaworthiness and robust construction, aiming to create reliable cruisers. While the boat's production continued for a significant period, notable variations between the Dutch and British-built models primarily concerned the interior finishing and layout, with Dutch versions sometimes referred to as Trintella 1 and British as Trintella 29.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella 29's design characteristics translate into a predictable and stable sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.72, the Trintella 29 suggests moderate performance in lighter winds, typical for a cruising yacht of its era focused more on comfort than outright speed. However, its high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.45 indicates a remarkably stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up well to stronger winds and providing an excellent righting capability. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 389, firmly places the Trintella 29 in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to its reputation as a "great sea boat" that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway. The long keel design of the Trintella 29 contributes significantly to its excellent directional stability, making it a steady platform even in challenging conditions. While this long keel enhances offshore capability, it does mean that maneuverability, particularly under power, is less agile compared to boats with fin keels, a common characteristic noted by owners.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just under 29 feet, the Trintella 29 offers a functional interior layout, typically arranged with two cabins. Owners often describe the interior as compact, with some taller individuals finding the space restrictive, though the saloon generally features about 6 feet of headroom. While specific details can vary, especially between the Dutch and UK-built versions, the interior often features mahogany framing, reflecting a classic approach to marine joinery. Prospective owners might find older models require attention to the interior, with some having undergone significant rebuilding.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trintella 29 consistently praise its robust construction and its ability to handle rough seas with a comfortable motion, often referring to it as a "great sea boat." The yacht is generally considered suitable and comfortable for one or two people undertaking extended cruises, with some owners having successfully sailed them in challenging areas like Shetland, Orkney, and the west coast of Norway. However, given the age of these vessels, potential buyers should be aware of common issues. Maintenance is a recurring theme, with reports of original deck fittings developing leaks and the mast step area potentially suffering from corrosion. The limited interior space, particularly for taller individuals, is also frequently mentioned. Furthermore, the long keel, while offering superb directional stability, can make handling under engine somewhat poor, a characteristic attributed to the combination of the keel type and typically low horsepower original engines. The active "Trintella Vriendenkring" (Friends of Trintella) community underscores a strong sense of camaraderie and support among owners, reflecting the enduring appeal and classic status of these yachts.