Tripp 47 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Tripp 47 is characterized by its high-aspect sail plan and a deep-draft bulb keel, which together provide exceptional upwind performance and stability. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio typically hovering in the low 100s, the boat feels remarkably light and responsive for a 47-foot vessel, accelerating quickly in light air where heavier cruisers might stall. According to design notes from the Tripp Design office, the hull form was optimized for a balance of speed and "sea-kindliness," featuring a narrow entry to slice through chop and enough beam carried aft to provide power when reaching.

Owners often report that the boat tracks with precision, owing to its deep, high-aspect rudder. While the Tripp 47 is a "sailor’s boat" that rewards active trimming and rig tuning, its hull form remains forgiving enough for short-handed cruising. The deck layout was specifically engineered for efficiency, featuring a large, ergonomic cockpit that separates the working area (winches and helm) from the guest seating. Many 47s were delivered with carbon fiber masts from manufacturers like Hall Spars, further reducing weight aloft and minimizing heel and pitching in a seaway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Tripp 47’s exterior suggests a pure racing pedigree, the interior reflects a high degree of refinement and comfort. The layout typically features a three-cabin configuration: a master V-berth forward with an en-suite head, and two double cabins aft flanking the companionway. The main salon is characterized by a modern, airy aesthetic, utilizing white bulkheads with satin-finished cherry or mahogany trim to create a sense of space. Unlike the more Spartan interiors of Carroll Marine’s Farr-designed racing one-designs, the Tripp 47 incorporates a full galley with refrigeration, a dedicated navigation station, and ample storage for long-distance cruising.

Because Carroll Marine operated as a semi-custom builder, several variations of the Tripp 47 exist. Some hulls were optimized for the IMS (International Measurement System) racing rule of the era, while others were fitted with heavier cabinetry and additional tankage for extended cruising. The Tripp 47 shares a clear design lineage with its smaller sibling, the Tripp 43 (also built by Carroll Marine), which offers a similar aesthetic and performance profile in a more compact package. Conversely, the later Tripp 50 designs expanded on this concept with even more luxurious accommodations and hydraulic systems.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tripp 47 should approach the purchase with a focus on the technical maintenance of high-performance materials.

• Core Integrity: Like many Carroll Marine builds of this era, the Tripp 47 utilizes a vacuum-bagged foam core. While highly durable, it is imperative to check for moisture intrusion around deck hardware, stanchion bases, and the chainplates. If hardware was not properly bedded or re-bedded over the decades, the core can become compromised.
• Rigging and Spars: Many units are equipped with carbon fiber masts and rod rigging. These components have a finite fatigue life and require professional ultrasonic testing or replacement if they are original to the boat. The "Nitronic 50" rod rigging typically used should be inspected for cold-head cracks.
• Keel Attachment: Given the boat’s performance orientation and deep draft, the keel-to-hull joint should be inspected for "smile" cracks or signs of hard grounding, which can stress the internal floor grid structure.
• Rudder Bearings: The high loads placed on the deep, balanced rudder can lead to wear in the self-aligning bearings. Any "slop" or vibration at the helm usually indicates the need for bearing replacement.

Community & Resources

The Tripp 47 benefits from a dedicated following among performance-oriented sailors. Technical support and design archives are often accessible through the original designer, Tripp Design, which maintains a high level of engagement with their classic fleet. Owners often congregate in general Carroll Marine or high-performance sailing forums to discuss refits, such as converting older symmetric spinnaker setups to modern asymmetric sprits to improve handling.

The Verdict

The Tripp 47 remains a standout choice for the sailor who refuses to choose between a competitive racing platform and a comfortable coastal cruiser. It represents the peak of American composite boatbuilding from the late 1990s.

Pros:

• Exceptional speed and agility, particularly in light-to-moderate air.
• Sophisticated, modern interior that avoids the "dark cave" feel of traditional cruisers.
• High-quality construction using epoxy and Kevlar, offering superior strength-to-weight.

Cons:

• Deep draft can limit access to shallow-water cruising grounds and some marinas.
• Requires a more experienced crew to maximize performance compared to a heavy-displacement cruiser.
• Ongoing maintenance of high-tech components (carbon spars, rod rigging) can be costly.