Trintella Iii Information, Review, Specs

The Trintella III entered production in 1969 and continued until 1979, with approximately 135 units built. This period marked a crucial era for fiberglass yacht construction, with Tyler Boat Co. Ltd. establishing itself as a leading supplier of high-quality GRP hulls and decks to numerous builders worldwide. The Trintella III was a departure for the Anne Wever Shipyard, being their first 35-foot centre cockpit design, characterized by a distinctive high freeboard and a flush deck. E.G. van de Stadt's design philosophy for the Trintella III focused on creating a "real cruising ship" that offered ample, well-conceived space, intended for "sailing far and often." This emphasis on long-distance capabilities underscored a commitment to seaworthiness and comfort. The model was offered in both sloop and ketch configurations, providing owners with options for sail plan and handling characteristics. A later version, the Trintella IIIa, maintained largely similar interior layouts and was predominantly ketch-rigged.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 16,535 pounds and a waterline length of 28.21 feet, the Trintella III possesses a Displacement/Length ratio of approximately 329. This figure places it firmly in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, indicating a yacht designed for a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed. Her sail area to displacement ratio of around 14.24 suggests that while capable, she is not intended as a light-air performer and will likely excel when the wind builds, maintaining a steady course and comfortable speed. The ballast-to-displacement ratio of 37.3% provides reasonable stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze and offer a secure feel under sail. Equipped with a long keel, the Trintella III is known for its excellent directional stability, making it a predictable and easy-to-manage vessel for long passages, particularly when windvane steering systems are employed. The combination of its robust build and design for sailing far and often contributes to its reputation for seaworthiness.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Trintella III prioritizes comfort and practicality for extended cruising, a reflection of its "real cruising ship" design ethos. Characterized by a centre cockpit layout, the design allowed for a spacious aft cabin, a desirable feature for privacy and comfort on longer voyages. Over its production run, the Trintella III and IIIa were offered with at least two, and possibly three, distinct interior layouts. Common arrangements included a galley positioned either along the length of the ship or in a U-shape, often accompanied by a chart table opposite or a dinette. Owners sometimes had the flexibility to customize aspects of the interior, further highlighting the boat's adaptable nature. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the high freeboard and flush deck design suggest a generally generous interior volume. The finish quality and materials used for the interior could vary, with some owners opting for bespoke solutions.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Trintella III frequently praise its solid construction and its suitability for extensive cruising. Many appreciate the long-lived Perkins engines commonly found in these vessels, although some have noted issues with the original hydraulic Paragon inverter system. The strong community of Trintella owners, particularly evident in groups like the Dutch Trintella Owners Circle, underscores the enduring appeal and loyalty these boats inspire. These forums and reviews often highlight the Trintella III's capabilities as a reliable and comfortable long-distance cruiser, a testament to the quality of its Tyler-molded hull and Anne Wever's finishing. Modifications and improvements by owners are common, reflecting a committed ownership base dedicated to maintaining these classic yachts.