Trintella 35 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Trintella 35 in 1978 marked a significant step for Jachtwerf Anne Wever into the 35-foot segment of the yacht market. Anne Wever, who pioneered the use of Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction in Europe from 1961, continued this legacy with the Trintella 35, building it with a solid fiberglass hull and deck. The design of the Trintella 35, by Ricus van de Stadt, followed in the footsteps of previous popular Trintella models, such as the Trintella III, which was also a 35-foot center cockpit design. While Trintella introduced more contemporary aesthetics with the Trintella 38 in 1976, the 35, launched shortly thereafter, maintained the brand's commitment to seaworthy cruising yachts. The Trintella 35 was primarily built with a long keel, which is characteristic of designs focused on directional stability, particularly beneficial for offshore passages. Notably, the model also saw variations, with twin keel and keel/centerboard versions available, offering flexibility for different cruising grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella 35, with its long keel and ketch rig, is primarily designed for comfortable and stable cruising rather than high-performance racing. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.75 suggests a moderate performer, capable of handling a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavy winds. The ballast to displacement ratio (Ballast/Disp) of around 0.366 indicates a respectable level of initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its canvas reasonably well.

With a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 332.4, the Trintella 35 falls into the heavier displacement category, characteristic of traditional cruisers. This robust build contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, often praised by owners of Trintella yachts. The long keel provides excellent directional stability, meaning the boat will track a straight course with minimal effort, a desirable trait for long-distance cruising. However, this design choice also implies that the Trintella 35 may be less agile in tight maneuvering situations compared to boats with fin keels and spade rudders. Handling under power, especially in reverse, can also require some adjustment due to the influence of the long keel. Overall, the Trintella 35 offers a safe, predictable, and comfortable sailing experience, well-suited for extended voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior layout of the Trintella 35 necessitate grounded search, the vessel is recognized for its spacious accommodations, particularly for a boat of its era and size. Trintella's general design philosophy prioritized comfortable living spaces, and models from this period often featured a well-appointed interior finished with quality materials, though variations in finishing could exist between different examples. Typically, these cruisers would offer a traditional layout, often including a V-berth forward, a main saloon with opposing settees and a central table, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. The design emphasis on seaworthiness meant interiors were generally practical and secure, with ample handholds and storage for offshore living. The maximum headroom, while not precisely specified in the provided data, is generally considered adequate for a boat of this length, contributing to the overall sense of volume below deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Trintella yachts, including the 35, frequently commend the brand for its solid construction and the comfortable motion of the boats at sea. The robust build quality instilled confidence, particularly for those undertaking longer passages. Forum discussions among Trintella enthusiasts often highlight the enduring nature of these vessels. While direct owner experience specific to the Trintella 35 can be less common in certain regions, the collective sentiment across the Trintella community points to a design that prioritizes safety, stability, and comfortable liveability. As with many boats of its vintage, potential owners should be mindful of common maintenance items associated with older vessels, such as the potential for original deck fittings to require re-bedding over time to prevent leaks.