Perry Design Review: Tripp 26

Bill Tripp, Jr. has risen to the top of the IMS world, and his boats are accumulating wins at a rapid pace. The Tripp 26 puts all his experience into a portable package with a lifting keel and removable outboard rudder.

The Tripp 26.

Let's start with the hull. In profile, it shows the now-typical bow knuckle clear of DWL and the minimal forward overhang associated with the IMS. Aft, the counter is lifted clear of the waterline with rounded sections. The keel is a deep, high-aspect-ratio fin with a bulb. There appears to be little planform to this fin but, as aspect ratio increases, efficiency of the keel increases, reducing the need for planform area. The D/L ratio is 122. With the beam in the stern, the cockpit is huge with molded-in foot braces running down each side. The mainsheet is located where the helmsman can easily grab it or adjust the traveller.

This is not a cruising boat, but there are accommodations. With the addition of the optional V-berth, you could sleep four. The Porta Potti is located adjacent to the keel trunk. There is an Igloo ice box cooler that doubles as a companionway step.

With a SA/D ratio of 27.06, the Tripp 26 will keep you on your toes. Running backstays are needed to get the most out of the rig. The mast is tabernacled for easy stepping. Note the extra long spinnaker pole that is carried attached to the mast to minimize changes in weight distribution when racing. Given the keel configuration and the powerful hull shape, the 26 is quite stiff despite the big rig. The hull of the 26 uses a E-glass layup with Baltek, and all the exterior resin is Hydrex, to prevent blistering.

A 26-foot Tripp design that couples the horsepower of a big rig with the speed potential of a clean and sensible hull shape.

Boat Specifications

LOA	26'8"
LWL	22'
Beam	8'8"
Draft	6'
Displacement	2,700 lbs.
Ballast	1,000 lbs.
Sail Area	410 sq. ft.
SA/D ratio	27.06
D/L ratio	122
BM/BT	1.13
Auxiliary	4 hp longshaft
Fuel	3 gals.
Water	2 gals.