Trintella V Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Trintella V is deeply intertwined with the pioneering spirit of Anne Wever and the innovative designs of Ricus van de Stadt. Jachtwerf Anne Wever became one of Europe's first shipyards to fully embrace Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction methods in the early 1960s. The Trintella V, much like its predecessors the Trintella III and IV, showcased this expertise with a solid fiberglass hull and a distinctive center cockpit design. This configuration was a hallmark of Trintella's mid-1970s offerings, often featuring a subtle aft poop deck that evoked a classic nautical aesthetic. Van de Stadt's design philosophy for these vessels prioritized robust construction and seaworthiness, aiming to create yachts capable of comfortable long-distance voyaging. The Trintella V notably featured a high-situated center cockpit, a design choice specifically implemented to allow for a more expansive and functional interior layout, particularly accommodating a dedicated galley below deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Trintella V is rigged as a masthead ketch, a sail plan well-suited for comfortable offshore cruising. This configuration offers versatility and ease of handling, especially in varying wind conditions, and contributes to better comfort and stability when sailing downwind or on a broad reach.

Interpreting its specifications reveals a vessel designed for solid, comfortable passage-making rather than outright speed. With a displacement of 41,888 pounds and a waterline length of 36.09 feet, the Trintella V exhibits a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 397.4. This high figure firmly places it in the heavy displacement category, indicating a yacht that will track exceptionally well, offer a stable and comfortable motion in a seaway, and possess significant momentum through waves. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 31.6% provides a moderate level of stiffness, which, combined with its long keel hull type, ensures good initial stability and a predictable feel at the helm.

While the reported total sail area in some databases might seem low, a more accurate sum of its ketch rig (main, mizzen, and genoa) suggests a total working sail area closer to 1050 square feet. Using this figure, the Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio is approximately 13.92. This indicates respectable performance in moderate breezes for a heavy cruiser, though it might require more wind to get moving compared to lighter, more performance-oriented designs. The long keel provides excellent directional stability, allowing the boat to hold its course with minimal helm input, a desirable trait for long-distance cruising, albeit potentially at the expense of close-quarters maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

The Trintella V's distinctive high-situated center cockpit was a deliberate design choice that significantly enhanced its interior volume and livability. This arrangement allowed for ample headroom and, critically, provided space for a comprehensively equipped galley located beneath the cockpit. While specific interior layouts might vary slightly between individual vessels or customizations, the general design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, reflecting Trintella's reputation for "sublime outfitting quality". Owners can typically expect a well-appointed interior featuring quality joinery and materials, generous storage, and good ventilation, all contributing to a comfortable living space for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trintella V consistently express a strong affinity for their vessels, often highlighting their robust construction and unique character. The existence of a dedicated and active "Trintella Vriendenkring" (Friends of Trintella) community underscores the enduring appeal and high regard owners have for these yachts, providing a platform for technical support, shared experiences, and camaraderie. Owners frequently describe the Trintella V as a vessel where "everything is big," pointing to its generous dimensions and solid feel on the water. While specific common issues are often discussed within the owner's forum and technical bulletins, the overarching sentiment points to a durable and capable cruiser that stands the test of time, a testament to Trintella's enduring reputation for quality and seaworthiness.