Oceanic 48 (Tripp) Information, Review, Specs

The Oceanic 48's genesis in 1962 coincided with a pivotal period for its builder, John Trumpy & Sons, and reflected the design prowess of William H. Tripp Jr. William H. Tripp Jr. was a respected American naval architect known for creating numerous popular wooden and later fiberglass sailboat designs, including iconic models like the Bermuda 40 and the Block Island 40. His design philosophy often centered on achieving excellent sailing qualities and seaworthiness.

John Trumpy & Sons, transitioning from the Mathis Yacht Building Company, had established an enduring reputation for crafting bespoke, hand-finished wooden yachts. Their manufacturing ethos revolved around meticulous craftsmanship and a commitment to classic wooden construction, characterized by graceful lines and lavish interiors. While their portfolio was dominated by luxurious motor yachts, the decision to produce the Oceanic 48, albeit in limited numbers, showcased their ability to apply this same high standard to sailing vessels. The year 1962 also marked a challenging time for the builder, as a devastating fire swept through their Annapolis shipyard, yet they demonstrated resilience by continuing yacht construction. The Oceanic 48's hull and deck were constructed from wood, a testament to Trumpy's traditional building methods.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Tripp Oceanic 48 was designed as a robust cruiser with admirable sailing capabilities. Her specifications translate into a qualitative understanding of her on-water behavior. With a reported sail area of 1,000 square feet and a displacement of 27,000 pounds, her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio stands at approximately 17.85. This figure suggests a boat capable of performing well in lighter air conditions, indicative of a design that balances cruising comfort with an enjoyable sailing experience.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 37.04% points to solid stability, allowing the Oceanic 48 to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind without excessive heeling, although it is slightly below the threshold often associated with exceptionally stiff offshore designs. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at roughly 367.85, categorizes her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright speed. This heavy displacement, combined with a fin keel and a masthead sloop rig, contributes to her reputation for excellent sailing and seakeeping qualities. The yacht boasts a theoretical hull speed of 7.58 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior layout are scarce, the Tripp Oceanic 48 was known for offering good volume accommodations. A notable feature of her design was a doghouse, which incorporated seating and lookout windows, giving the interior a "nearly 'decksaloon' style" feel. This design element would have provided ample natural light and enhanced the sense of spaciousness below deck, a characteristic often prized in custom yachts of her era. Given John Trumpy & Sons' reputation for lavish interiors in their motor yachts, it is reasonable to infer that the Oceanic 48's interior would have featured high-quality materials such as rich mahogany and teak joinery, creating a luxurious and comfortable living space for extended cruising.