Trintella 38 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Trintella 38 began in 1975 and continued until 1985, with approximately 45 units built. Its design marked a significant evolution for Trintella, ushering in a more contemporary aesthetic with a near-flush deck and a modernized hull profile, departing from the distinctive center cockpit configurations of earlier Trintella models., 10] The design drew its inspiration from Van de Stadt's "Zeehond" (Seal) concept.

Anne Wever's shipyard, a pioneer in Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction in Europe since 1961, applied their commitment to "superyacht quality" and a "pursuit of perfection" to the Trintella 38. The yacht was offered in both masthead sloop and ketch rig configurations, providing versatility for various sailing preferences. Its robust fiberglass solid hull construction and fin keel further underscored its design as a sturdy and seaworthy vessel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella 38 is characterized by its substantial build and excellent sailing capabilities. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.25, she exhibits good performance, especially in lighter air. Her impressive ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.42 contributes to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a significant amount of wind and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway.

Classified with a displacement to length ratio of approximately 402, the Trintella 38 is a heavy, traditional cruiser, emphasizing stability and comfort over outright speed. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the Trintella 38 as "sturdy built, safe and seaworthy" and an "ideal long-distance blue water cruiser." While her fin keel provides enhanced maneuverability compared to full-keel designs, some may find she has slightly less directional stability. Overall, her design ensures she is a reliable and capable performer for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Trintella 38 is designed for comfort and practicality, reflecting Trintella's reputation for luxurious cruising yachts. While specific dimensions like maximum headroom are not universally documented, reviews frequently highlight the ample space both on and below decks.

Typically, the layout features a forward V-berth cabin, a well-appointed salon, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. The design emphasis on a modern, near-flush deck translates to generous interior volume. The build quality, a hallmark of Trintella yachts, suggests a high standard of finish, likely incorporating quality wood trim and robust materials throughout, consistent with the builder's ethos of "superyacht quality." Notable features often include well-sized cabins and generous storage, such as a substantial bow locker.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trintella 38 frequently commend its exceptional build quality and its inherent safety and seaworthiness. The vessel is often praised for its solid construction and comfortable motion, particularly when undertaking longer passages. The active "Trintella Vriendenkring" (Friends of Trintella) community further reinforces the strong sense of camaraderie and support among owners, who consistently uphold the brand's heritage and reputation. While specific, widespread common problems are not extensively documented in general reviews, ongoing maintenance typical of a vessel of this age, such as potential teak deck refits, are part of ownership. The collective sentiment points to the Trintella 38 as a highly regarded, dependable yacht for those seeking a robust and comfortable cruising experience.