Trintella Iia Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Trintella IIa is rooted in Anne Wever's vision for durable and reliable cruisers, a mission he pursued through Jachtwerf Anne Wever in 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands. As a pioneering shipyard in Europe, Trintella embraced Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction methods starting in 1961, a move that allowed for serial production while maintaining high standards of quality. The Trintella IIa, based on Van de Stadt's design #140, represents a refinement of earlier GRP models and reflects the builder's commitment to robust fiberglass hulls.

During its production run, the Trintella IIa evolved from its predecessor, the Trintella II. The primary distinction lies in the underwater profile: while the Trintella II featured a long keel with the rudder positioned at its aft end, the IIa introduced a shorter fin keel with a separate rudder mounted on a skeg. This modification was a significant design enhancement by Van de Stadt, aiming to improve handling characteristics. Notably, the hulls for these yachts were initially molded by Tyler Boat Building Ltd. in the United Kingdom, where they were also marketed as the Seacracker 33 and subsequently the Tufglass 33.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella IIa's design ratios underscore its identity as a stable and comfortable cruiser rather than a high-performance racer. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.75, she possesses adequate sail area for reasonable performance in a variety of wind conditions, balancing speed with ease of handling. Her high Ballast to Displacement ratio of about 0.46 points to significant stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a strong breeze with confidence and providing a stable platform for offshore passages. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of around 309.5 confirms her heavy displacement nature, indicative of a boat designed for a comfortable motion in a seaway and exceptional seaworthiness, rather than outright speed.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Trintella IIa as a "good sailing ship" that is "high against the wind and a quiet on the water". The adoption of a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder on the IIa, as opposed to the longer keel of the II, contributes to her "great sailing characteristics" and improved maneuverability. While earlier Trintella II models could be "heavy to steer" if not properly trimmed, the IIa's revised rudder configuration generally offers more balanced handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior layout from the raw data are limited, general information from owner accounts and brochures indicates a traditional and practical arrangement, typical of cruisers from her era. The Trintella IIa often features a layout that includes a forward cabin, frequently described as "huge," providing comfortable sleeping quarters. The salon typically offers seating with a table, and some configurations for the Trintella II included a couch on the starboard side and a galley positioned against the aft main bulkhead to port. A "very wide dog cage," or quarter berth, often provides additional sleeping space.

The interior finish emphasizes traditional marine craftsmanship, with a hardwood cabin top and trim complementing the fiberglass hull, cockpit, and decks. Many boats were outfitted with a narrow-planked teak deck, enhancing both aesthetics and durability. Storage is a notable feature, with the interior designed to maximize space through numerous drawers and cupboards, catering to the needs of extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

The Trintella IIa has cultivated a strong following among its owners, who consistently praise its robust construction and dependable sailing characteristics. Owners frequently commend the boat for its seaworthiness and comfortable motion in challenging conditions, making it a popular choice for those undertaking serious cruising. The enduring popularity of the model is evident in its ability to "win cups in many" sailing events, highlighting its capable performance even decades after its production. The existence of a dedicated "Trintella Vriendenkring" (Friends of Trintella) community further underscores the deep loyalty and camaraderie among Trintella owners, actively preserving the brand's heritage and offering a valuable resource for current and prospective owners, 2].