Tripp Invicta II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Invicta II is a classic heavy-displacement cruiser that reflects the design priorities of the Cruising Club of America (CCA) era. Its most defining technical feature is the keel-centerboard configuration, which allows for a modest draft of approximately 4 feet 6 inches with the board up, extending to over 7 feet when lowered. This versatility makes the Invicta II an exceptional coastal cruiser for thin-water regions like the Chesapeake Bay or the Bahamas, while maintaining the windward performance necessary for offshore passages.

In terms of handling, the boat is known for its "sea-kindly" motion. The heavy displacement and narrow beam prevent the jarring movement found in modern, flat-bottomed designs. While the large wetted surface area means it is not a light-air flyer, the Invicta II thrives when the breeze refreshes, tracking remarkably well due to its long keel. As noted in editorial evaluations of the Pearson Invicta 38, the design provides a sense of security in heavy weather that modern production boats often lack, though it requires a proactive approach to sail changes to maintain optimal heel angles.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The primary distinction between the original Invicta and the Invicta II lies within the cabin. By raising the coachroof, William Tripp Jr. successfully addressed the "cramped" complaints associated with the Mark I. The Invicta II offers full standing headroom (approximately 6'2") throughout the main salon, a significant upgrade for a boat of this vintage.

The layout is traditional: a V-berth forward followed by a head and hanging locker. The main salon typically features a U-shaped or linear settee that can be converted into berths, often accompanied by pilot berths situated high and outboard. This "stacking" of berths was a hallmark of the era, maximizing sleeping capacity for racing crews. The joinery is predominantly teak or mahogany, which, when well-maintained, gives the interior a warm, ship-shape aesthetic. Because these boats were built during a transitional period in marine manufacturing, the cabinetry is often bonded directly to the hull, contributing to the vessel’s overall structural rigidity.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Invicta line’s cultural footprint is inextricably linked to the yacht Burgoo. Its victory in the 1964 Newport-Bermuda Race was a watershed moment that silenced critics who believed fiberglass hulls were structurally inferior to wood for ocean racing. This specific victory is frequently cited in maritime history texts as the "death knell" for wooden hull dominance in competitive offshore sailing. While the Invicta II was marketed more toward the "performance cruiser" than the pure racer, it inherited the prestige of this racing pedigree.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tripp Invicta II should approach the vessel with an understanding of its 1960s-era construction. While the hulls are famously thick, several specific areas require scrutiny:

• Centerboard Assembly: The centerboard trunk and the pennant (the cable used to raise and lower the board) are critical fail points. Corrosion in the pivot pin or a frayed stainless steel cable can lead to a jammed board or, in extreme cases, water ingress.
• Deck Delamination: Like many Pearson models of this era, the Invicta II used a balsa-cored deck. Any unsealed hardware installations over the decades can lead to water intrusion, resulting in soft spots that require expensive "surgical" repair.
• Chainplates and Bulkheads: The load-bearing bulkheads where the chainplates attach should be inspected for rot. Leaking chainplate covers are a common source of freshwater intrusion that can compromise the structural integrity of the rig's anchoring points.
• Original Atomic 4 Engines: Many Invictas were originally fitted with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While reliable if maintained, many owners prefer modern diesel conversions for safety and fuel efficiency. Buyers should check the age and service records of the powerplant carefully.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Invicta II benefit from the deep institutional knowledge of the Pearson Yachts community. The most prominent resource is the Pearson Yacht Owners Association, which maintains technical archives and provides a forum for discussing restoration projects. While not exclusive to the Invicta, the "Pearson Yachts Portal" serves as a primary hub for sourcing original blueprints and hardware specifications that are otherwise difficult to locate for vessels of this age.

The Verdict

The Tripp Invicta II is a "sailor's sailboat" that offers a bridge between the classic aesthetic of the 1960s and the practical requirements of modern cruising. It is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who values heavy-weather capability and the ability to explore shallow anchorages.

Pros:

• Exceptional offshore pedigree and structural "over-build."
• Keel-centerboard design provides a versatile shallow draft.
• Classic, timeless lines that stand out in a sea of modern "bleacher-style" yachts.

Cons:

• High maintenance requirements for the centerboard and aging deck core.
• Interior volume is significantly less than modern 38-footers due to the narrow beam.
• Slower performance in light wind conditions.