24 feet sailboat

9 Best Trailerable Sailboats

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

December 28, 2023

Sailing is an excellent activity for the weekends, especially in remote mountain lakes or sheltered waterways. The United States is full of small isolated waterways, inland lakes, and rivers—which make the perfect environment for an adventure in a small sailboat .

Unfortunately, many people are put off by the idea of owning a sailboat due to the associated docking and maintenance fees. Weekend sailors often don’t want to pay for a long-term slip, and there’s no question that the added expense can be a pain.

Luckily, you don’t have to permanently dock a sailboat to enjoy this great pastime.

Instead of docking a large boat, you can purchase a small trailerable sailboat. A trailerable sailboat is a perfect option for part-time sailors and people with busy lives. Trailer sailors are some of the most popular boats in the country, and they’re not limited to light winds and calm seas. Many trailerable sailboats have made some impressive passages both offshore and coastal. In this article, we’ll go over some of the top new and used trailerable sailboats that you can purchase today.

Table of contents

Best Trailerable Sailboats

1) west wight potter 15.

The West Wight Potter 15 is perhaps one of the most capable 15-foot sailboats around. This neat little vessel is as seaworthy as it is easy to handle, and it’s a great choice for all kinds of cruising adventures.

The West Wight Potter 15 is a 15-foot sloop with an aluminum mast and tiller. This tiny boat also features a small cabin, which has ideal sleeping accommodations for a cruising couple. The cabin itself is spartan compared to its larger relatives, but it’s the perfect design for the minimalist cruiser.

This small sailboat is easily trailerable and can be stored in some garages with relative ease. The West Wight Potter 15 is ideal for inland and coastal waters and sets up (and takes down) fast with minimal fuss. Don’t let the small design fool you—this craft is surprisingly seaworthy.

The West Wight Potter 15 has an impressive cruising record, including a trip from England to Sweden in the brutal North Atlantic. The West Wight Potter 15 can be purchased new from International Marine, and thousands of craft are in circulation already.

2) West Wight Potter 19

We thought it fitting to include the Potter 15’s big brother, the West Wight Potter 19, on this list of the best trailerable sailboats . West Wight Potter boats are well known for their robust design and easy handling, and the Potter 19 is no exception.

The West Wight Potter 19 boasts the seaworthiness and ease-of-handling offered by its little brother, with the benefit of greater sailing comfort and cabin accommodations. This 19-foot sailboat is constructed of fiberglass. The hull contains a liberal amount of positive flotation, which makes the boat practically unsinkable.

The cabin features generous accommodations for a boat of its size, featuring space for a vee-berth, a small stove, a sink, and a portable head. Additionally, the West Wight Potter 19’s cabin can be wired for electricity from the factory, further increasing the level of comfort in this capable trailer sailor.

Like its smaller alternative, the West Wight Potter 19 has a history of some impressive cruises. An individual sailed this craft thousands of nautical miles from California to Hawaii —a single-handed voyage usually reserved for boats twice its size.

That’s not to say that the Potter 19 is a purpose-built long-haul sailboat. This design is ideal for larger lakes, rivers, and coastal cruising. However, the design has demonstrated toughness and seaworthiness rarely found in smaller boats.

The Potter 19, like the Potter 15, is a centerboard craft. This sailboat is available new from International Marine and offers a wide range of options packages and upgrades.

3) Newport 27

The Newport 27 is a massive step-up in size and amenities compared to the other boats on this list so far. This comfortable trailerable sailboat originated in 1971—at the height of the fiberglass boat boom. The Newport 27 measures 27-feet in length and feature a flush-deck design similar to the famous Cal 20.

This sailboat, despite its trailerable size and weight, features surprisingly good handling characteristics and generous accommodations. A full 6-feet of standing headroom is available in the cabin, making this boat exceedingly comfortable for longer journeys.

This sailboat is an excellent choice for the trailer sailing sailor who dreams of longer journeys but spends much of the time just hopping around local ports.

Despite its modest size and weight, the design of this small sailboat is proven. Many people sail them long distances and enjoy the quick handling characteristics of its design.

The Newport 27 is a true pocket cruiser, if not slightly larger than most. The Newport 27 isn’t produced anymore, but there is a healthy second-hand market for the boat.

4) Cape Dory 28

The Cape Dory 28 is a legendary Carl Alberg design known for its commodious living spaces and well-rounded performance both offshore and inland. This spacious little cruiser has the styling and capability of many larger boats, featuring traditional styling and generous amounts of varnished teak and brass. This cozy boat is a great choice for traditionalist sailors.

The Cape Dory 28 features a proven, simple, and robust rig, and it functions gracefully in a variety of conditions. While a 28’ sailboat is hardly considered trailerable by many, it can certainly be hauled-out and transported with relative ease. This is the kind of sailboat that’s just as happy in the boatyard or a permanent mooring.

The Cape Dory 28 offers attractive features for long-haul voyages, plus ease-of-handling and quickness that is necessary for tighter coastal waters. The Cape Dory 28 is ideal for salt-water cruising, though it’s a bit large for small lakes and narrow rivers.

This is certainly not a shoal-draft cruiser—with a draft of 4-feet, it's primarily at home in the water.

5) Islander 24

The Islander 24 is a common fiberglass classic that makes an ideal trailer sailing setup. This 24-foot fiberglass boat features a robust design and ease-of-maintenance rarely found on boats with similar capabilities.

The design has been around for over 40 years, and it’s served weekender and cruising sailor alike. The Islander 24 is a well-rounded cruising vessel with a spacious cabin for two (or more). The cabin features a forward vee berth, space for a head, and tables for a sink, stove, or navigation.

The boat is single-handed with ease, and the rig is simple enough to be stowed without too much hassle. The Islander 24 is a relatively common trailer sailor, though many owners leave it in the water.

A vessel of this size is ideal for cruising coastal waters, though some sailors have attempted longer voyages in this vessel. The Islander 24 is available on the used market all over the country.

6) Contessa 26

The Contessa 26 is an excellent classic trailerable sailboat. Don’t let its modest size fool you—this cruising craft has a long-standing reputation for seaworthiness. The Contessa 26 is a fiberglass boat that debuted in 1965 and has since earned a bit of a cult following.

These rather innocuous looking crafts are as fun and capable as they are easy to handle. The boat features a spacious cabin, comfortable cockpit, and plenty of available cruising upgrades. The rig is well-built and resembles the rig of a much larger boat.

The Contessa 26 is an ideal pocket cruising setup for a moderately experienced sailor. The vessel has a narrow beam, which contributes to heeling. The boat is known to heel rather violently, but it stiffens up shortly after and becomes a joy to sail.

A boat like this knows its capabilities and is sure to impress anyone. The Contessa 26 is a safe, hardy, and comfortable cruising boat for minimalists, and one of the best tailorable sailboats in the mid to large-size category.

This boat is a little harder to come by than many other vessels on this list, as around 300 were built. However, if you’re lucky enough to locate one on the used market, it’s definitely worth considering. Contessa built a fine boat, and the Contessa 26 meets the standard with confidence.

7) Hunter 27

If you’ve made it this far down the list, you’re probably surprised that the Hunter 27 hasn’t come up yet. This famous little boat has quite a reputation and happens to be one of the most popular modern trailerable cruisers available.

The Hunter 27 isn’t a traditionalist’s dream, but it offers the modern amenities and capabilities you’d expect from Hunter. This capable little sailboat has the handling characteristics of a truly seaworthy boat and manages well in all kinds of conditions.

The Hunter 27 has a reputation for amazing durability, and the design is sound from keel to masthead. Now, let’s get into some of the features that make the Hunter 27 a very attractive option. The Hunter 27 is a purpose-built small cruising vessel, but the accommodations appear to be a shrunken version of a boat 10 feet longer.

Down below, the Hunter 27 features a full galley, head, a full standing shower, berths, and generous storage space. The Hunter 27 is a truly livable trailer sailor, featuring accommodations that make it suitable for extended cruising or even living aboard. The salon features over 6 feet of standing headroom, with plenty of seating and counter space throughout.

The rig is sturdy and easy to handle. And remember, the Hunter 27 is still a trailer sailor. The boat features a shoal draft of under 4-feet and a displacement of less than 8,000 pounds. The Hunter 27 is available used, and this boat is still produced and available brand-new by Marlow-Hunter.

How could we forget the little Cal 20? We didn’t—and it’s certainly worth including the famous Trans-Pac underdog on this list. The Cal 20 is reminiscent of the glory days of fiberglass sailing in the 1960s and 1970s.

This flush-deck racer is a fantastic trailer cruiser for anyone wanting big-boat handling and speed in a compact package. The accommodations on this boat leave something to be desired, but many people find them cozy and acceptable.

The cabin features sitting headroom and a berth, along with small tables for a stove or sink. The Cal 20 has a history of impressive voyages and was a popular choice for daring sailors on long offshore journeys. However, the boat is designed to be quick, safe, and fun on inland passages and coastal cruises.

The Cal 20 is common on the used market and makes a great entry-level cabin sailboat. The Cal 20 features an enormous cockpit, making it ideal for a day on the bay with friends or family.

The boat is easy to handle, and upgrades abound. The Cal 20 is a great little sailboat with a fun history and a massive fan base. This stout little yacht makes an excellent weekender too, and the cabin makes overnighting comfortable.

9) Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20

One of the most legendary small trailerable cruisers is the full-keel Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. A limited number of these boats were produced by Pacific Seacraft during the 20th century, and they have a reputation for incredible seaworthiness and long-range voyaging.

These sailboats have the hull shape of boats twice their size, with a long, deep, full keel running the length of the hull. The boat can handle some serious offshore cruising and features the capabilities of other full-keel sailboats.

The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 is an amazing find on the used market, as owners tend to cling to them due to their incredible characteristics. There aren’t many trailerable offshore cruisers available, which is because it’s not easy to design a small boat with offshore capabilities.

However, Pacific Seacraft did just that and built one incredible trailer sailor. This vessel is not really designed for shallow lakes and rivers.

The Flicka 20 is known to be a truly seaworthy ocean-going sailboat, which happens to be small enough to fit on an average-sized boat trailer.

Wherever you choose to sail, a trailerable sailboat is often a great choice. The boats listed here are by no means the only options—in fact, there are dozens of excellent trailerable sailboat models on the market. If you enjoy sailing but want to avoid the hassle of a permanent mooring, or if you travel to sail, a trailer sailor is a great choice.

Many sailors pick trailerable sailboats to sail multiple oceans. Many people would agree that it’s a lot more practical to haul your boat from the Pacific to the Atlantic, especially when the alternative option is the Panama Canal .

A trailerable sailboat can give you access to a multitude of sailing adventures—the lake one weekend, the coast the next, and perhaps an offshore voyage or island hopping in the delta.

And with this list of the best trailerable sailboats, you can find the boat that fits your needs (and your budget) and hit the water in no time.

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender

By Mark Pillsbury
Updated: August 4, 2021

In order to go cruising, most of us require a sailboat with a head, a galley, and bunks. The boat, likely a 30-footer and more often a 40-footer, will have electronics for navigation and entertainment, refrigeration if the trip is longer than a coastal hop, an engine for light wind, and, depending on our appetites for food and fun, perhaps a genset to power our toys and appliances.

To go sailing , however, all we really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail. To experience the pure joy of sheeting in and scooting off across a lake, bay, or even the open ocean, there’s nothing better than a small sailboat – we’re talking sailboats under 25 feet. You can literally reach out and touch the water as it flows past. You instantly feel every puff of breeze and sense every change in trim.

Some of the boats in this list are new designs, others are time-tested models from small sailboat manufacturers, but every one is easy to rig, simple to sail, and looks like a whole lot of fun either for a solo outing on a breezy afternoon or to keep family and friends entertained throughout your entire sailing season. This list is made up of all types of sailboats , and if you’re looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats for beginners, you’ll find exactly that here.

Any one of these popular boats could be labeled as a trailerable sailboat, daysailer, or even a weekender sailboat. And while most would be labeled as a one or two person sailboat, some could comfortably fit three or even four people.

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

If you have an eye for elegant lines and your heart goes pitter-patter over just the right amount of overhang beneath a counter transom, the Marblehead 22 daysailer, designed by Doug Zurn and built by Samoset Boatworks in Boothbay, Maine, will definitely raise your pulse. Traditional-looking above the waterline and modern beneath, the cold-molded hull sports a deep bulb keel and a Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast with a wishbone rig and square-top main. The 11-foot-9-inch cockpit can seat a crowd, and a small cuddy forward will let you stow your friends’ gear for the day. samosetboatworks.com

Catalina 22 Sport

Many a harbor plays host to an active fleet of Catalina 22s, one of the most popular small sailboats over the years, given its basic amenities and retractable keel, which allows it to be easily trailered. Recently, the company introduced the Catalina 22 Sport, an updated design that can compete with the older 22s. The boat features a retractable lead keel; a cabin that can sleep four, with a forward hatch for ventilation; and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. Lifelines, a swim ladder, and an engine are options, as are cloth cushions; vinyl cushions are standard. The large cockpit will seat a crowd or let a mom-and-pop crew stretch out and enjoy their sail. It’s clear why the Catalina 22 is one of the best sailboats under 25 feet. catalinayachts.com

With its large, open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, the Hunter 22 makes a comfortable daysailer for family and friends. But with its cuddy cabin, twin bunks, optional electrical system, opening screened ports, and portable toilet, a parent and child or a couple could comfortably slip away for an overnight or weekend. Add in the optional performance package, which includes an asymmetric spinnaker, a pole, and a mainsheet traveler, and you could be off to the races. The boat features a laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Mount a small outboard on the stern bracket, and you’re set to go. marlow-hunter.com

Not sure whether you want to race, cruise or just go out for an afternoon sail? Since 1958, sailors have been having a ball aboard the Uffa Fox/George O’Day-designed Daysailer. Fox, who in the 1950s was on the cutting edge of planning-dinghy design, collaborated with Fall River, Massachusetts boatbuilder O’Day Corp. to build the 16-foot Daysailer, a boat that features a slippery hull and a small cuddy cabin that covers the boat roughly from the mast forward. Thousands of Daysailers were built by various builders, and they can be found used for quite affordable prices. There are active racing fleets around the US, and new Daysailers are still in production today, built by Cape Cod Ship Building. capecodshipbuilding.com

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

Easy to rig and trailer, the BayRaider from England’s Swallow Yachts is a relative newcomer to the small-boat market in the United States. Nearly all of its 19 feet 9 inches is open cockpit, though a spray hood can be added to keep the forward sections dry. The BayRaider is ketch-rigged with a gunter-style mainmast. The topmast and mizzen are both carbon-fiber, which is an option for the mainmast as well. The BayRaider can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter conditions or with 300 pounds of water ballast to increase its stability. With the centerboard and hinged rudder raised, the boat can maneuver in even the thinnest water.

$28,900, (904) 234-8779, swallowyachts.com

Big fun can come in small packages, especially if your vessel of choice happens to be the 12 ½-foot Beetle Cat. Designed by John Beetle and first built in 1921, the wooden shallow draft sailboat is still in production today in Wareham, Massachusetts at the Beetle Boat Shop. With a draft of just 2 feet, the boat is well-suited for shallow bays, but equally at home in open coastal waters. The single gaff-rigged sail provides plenty of power in light air and can be quickly reefed down to handle a blow. In a word, sailing a Beetle Cat is fun. beetlecat.com

West Wight Potter P 19

With berths for four and a workable galley featuring a cooler, a sink, and a stove, West Wight Potter has packed a lot into its 19-foot-long P 19. First launched in 1971, this is a line of boats that’s attracted a true following among trailer-sailors. The P 19′s fully retractable keel means that you can pull up just about anywhere and go exploring. Closed-cell foam fore and aft makes the boat unsinkable, and thanks to its hard chine, the boat is reportedly quite stable under way. westwightpotter.com

NorseBoat 17.5

Designed for rowing and sailing (a motor mount is optional), the Canadian-built NorseBoat 17.5—one of which was spotted by a CW editor making its way through the Northwest Passage with a two-man crew—features an open cockpit, a carbon-fiber mast, and a curved-gaff rig, with an optional furling headsail set on a sprit. The lapstrake hull is fiberglass; the interior is ply and epoxy. The boat comes standard with two rowing stations and one set of 9-foot oars. The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form.

$19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com

Montgomery 17

Billed as a trailerable pocket cruiser, the Montgomery 17 is a stout-looking sloop designed by Lyle Hess and built out of fiberglass in Ontario, California, by Montgomery Boats. With a keel and centerboard, the boat draws just under 2 feet with the board up and can be easily beached when you’re gunkholing. In the cuddy cabin you’ll find sitting headroom, a pair of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore and DC power, and an impressive amount of storage space. The deck-stepped mast can be easily raised using a four-part tackle. The builder reports taking his own boat on trips across the Golfo de California and on visits to California’s coastal islands. Montgomery makes 15-foot and 23-foot models, as well. If you’re in search of a small sailboat with a cabin, the Montgomery 17 has to be on your wish list.

With long overhangs and shiny brightwork, the CW Hood 32 is on the larger end of the daysailer spectrum. Designers Chris Hood and Ben Stoddard made a conscious decision to forego a cabin and head in favor of an open cockpit big enough to bring 4 or 5 friends or family out for an afternoon on the water. The CW Hood 32 is sleek and graceful through the water and quick enough to do some racing, but keeps things simple with a self-tacking jib and controls that can be lead back to a single-handed skipper. A top-furling asymmetrical, electric sail drive and Torqeedo outboard are all optional. The CW Hood 32 makes for a great small family sailboat. cwhoodyachts.com

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Shallow U.S. East Coast bays and rock-strewn coasts have long been graced by cat boats, whose large, gaff-rigged mainsails proved simple and powerful both on the wind and, better yet, when reaching and running. The 17-foot-4-inch Sun Cat, built by Com-Pac Yachts, updates the classic wooden cat with its fiberglass hull and deck and the easy-to-step Mastender Rigging System, which incorporates a hinged tabernacle to make stepping the mast a one-person job. If you want a personal sailboat ideal for solo sailing, the Sun Can is a great choice. Belowdecks, the twin 6-foot-5-inch berths and many other features and amenities make this cat a willing weekender.

$19,800, (727) 443-4408, com-pacyachts.com

Catalina 16.5

The Catalina 16.5 sits right in the middle of Catalina Yachts’ line of small sailboats, which range from the 12.5 to the 22 Capri and Sport, and it comes in both an easy-to-trailer centerboard model and a shoal-draft fixed-keel configuration. With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. catalinayachts.com

No roundup of best small sailboats (trailerable and fun too) would be complete without a mention of the venerable Hobie 16, which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969. The company has introduced many other multihulls since, but more than 100,000 of the 16s have been launched, a remarkable figure. The Hobie’s asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam hulls eliminate the need for daggerboards, and with its kick-up rudders, the 16 can be sailed right up to the beach. Its large trampoline offers lots of space to move about or a good place to plant one’s feet when hanging off the double trapezes with a hull flying. The boat comes with a main and a jib; a spinnaker, douse kit, trailer, and beach dolly are optional features. hobiecat.com

Novice sailors or old salts looking for simplicity could both enjoy sailing the Hunter 15. With a fiberglass hull and deck and foam flotation, the boat is sturdily built. The ample freeboard and wide beam provide stability under way, and the heavy-duty rubrail and kick-up rudder mean that you won’t have to worry when the dock looms or the going grows shallow. Both the 15 and its slightly larger 18-foot sibling come standard with roller-furling jibs.

$6,900/$9,500 (boat-show prices for the 15 and 18 includes trailers), (386) 462-3077, marlow-hunter.com

Super Snark

Under various owners, the Snark brand of sailboats, now built by Meyers Boat Co., has been around since the early 1970s. The Super Snark, at 11 feet, is a simple, easily car-topped daysailer that’s fit out with a lateen rig and sail. Billed as unsinkable, the five boats in the company’s line are built with E.P.S. foam, with the external hull and deck vacuum-formed to the core using an A.B.S. polymer. The Super Snark weighs in at 50 pounds, and with a payload capacity of 310 pounds, the boat can carry two.

$970, (800) 247-6275, meyersboat.com

Norseboat 21.5

Built in Canada, the NorseBoat 21.5 is a rugged looking craft that comes in a couple of configurations: one with an open cockpit and small doghouse, and another with a smaller cockpit and cabin that houses a double berth for two adults and optional quarter berths for the kids. Both carry NorseBoat’s distinctive looking carbon fiber gaff-rigged mast with main and jib (a sprit-set drifter is optional), and come with a ballasted stub keel and centerboard. Because of its lightweight design, the boat can be rowed and is easily trailered.

$36,000 (starting), 902-659-2790, norseboat.com

Flying Scot

Talk about time-tested, the 19-foot Flying Scot has been in production since 1957 and remains a popular design today. Sloop rigged, with a conventional spinnaker for downwind work, the boat is an easily sailed family boat as well as a competitive racer, with over 130 racing fleets across the U.S. Its roomy cockpit can seat six to eight, though the boat is often sailed by a pair or solo. Hull and deck are a fiberglass and balsa core sandwich. With the centerboard up, the boat draws only eight inches. Though intended to be a daysailer, owners have rigged boom tents and berths for overnight trips, and one adventurous Scot sailor cruised his along inland waterways from Philadelphia to New Orleans.

Known primarily for its line of racing dinghys, RS Sailing also builds the 16-foot, 4-inch Venture, which it describes as a cruising and training dinghy. The Venture features a large, self-draining cockpit that will accommodate a family or pack of kids. A furling jib and mainsail with slab reefing come standard with the boat; a gennaker and trapeze kit are options, as is an outboard motor mount and transom swim ladder. The deck and hull are laid up in a fiberglass and Coremat sandwich. The Venture’s designed to be both a good performer under sail, but also stable, making it a good boat for those learning the sport.

$14,900, 203-259-7808, rssailing.com

Topper makes a range of mono- and multihull rotomolded boats, but the model that caught one editor’s eye at Strictly Sail Chicago was the Topaz Taz. At 9 feet, 8 inches LOA and weighing in at 88 pounds, the Taz is not going to take the whole crowd out for the day. But, with the optional mainsail and jib package (main alone is for a single child), the Taz can carry two or three kids or an adult and one child, and would make a fun escape pod when tied behind the big boat and towed to some scenic harbor. The hull features Topper’s Trilam construction, a plastic and foam sandwich that creates a boat that’s stiff, light, and durable, and shouldn’t mind being dragged up on the beach when it’s time for a break.

$2,900 (includes main and jib), 410-286-1960, topazsailboats.com

WindRider WRTango

WRTango, a fast, sturdy, 10-foot trimaran that’s easy to sail, is the newest portable craft from WindRider International. It joins a line that includes the WR16 and WR17 trimarans. The Tango features forward-facing seating, foot-pedal steering, and a low center of gravity that mimics the sensation of sitting in a kayak. It weighs 125 pounds (including the outriggers and carbon-fiber mast), is extremely stable, and has single-sheet sail control. The six-inch draft and kick-up rudder make it great for beaching, while the hull and outriggers are made of rotomolded polyethylene, so it can withstand running into docks and being dragged over rocks.

$3,000, 612-338-2170, windrider.com

More: 21 - 30 ft , Boat Gallery , day sailing , dinghy , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats , under 20 ft
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24′ Double-ended voyager CAROL

QUEEN BEE hails from Australia. Her owner lives aboard.

QUEEN BEE was built in Sydney, Australia.

FOR A VIDEO that shows the CAROL’s sailing qualities, click here:

CAROL is in many ways my favorite pocket cruiser— a scaled-down and flatter-deadrise version of my popular FRANCES . She evokes an adventurous spirit that prevailed in the happy times of the late ‘70s when I designed her. At 24 feet she’s as small as a prudent sailor would ever think of taking to sea. CAROL is the ultimate in making do with less. Her hull is stable and easily driven, and her rig is simple and powerful. She can sail close to her hull speed of six knots when conditions are favorable, making for good sailing in moderate conditions. While no boat of this size can truthfully be termed comfortable in the open ocean, CAROL ‘s crew are at least free of great concern for her safety, or their own. With her small self draining cockpit well, raised deck, centerline hatches and strong self-righting tendency she is as seaworthy as the proverbial corked bottle. Her clear decks make it easy to handle her gear, and the recessed deck forward offers the crew security where it is needed most.

I designed CAROL in 1979 and something like twenty have been built so far all over the world. Thanks to her beautifully crafted building plans, anyone willing to work hard and with good carpentry skills can aspire to sailing over the horizon in something of high intrinsic value that they built themselves. With her very high quality of specified construction and perfected double-ender aesthetics she is a true legacy yacht, whose appeal will endure for generations. She’s neither easy nor cheap to build, though— fair warning.

HARRIET ROSE sails out of Chichester, UK.

JEANNETTE was built and sails near Victoria, BC.

JEANNETTE was built near Victoria, BC. Now she sails on Monterey Bay, CA.

The interior arrangement is intended for two persons. They may share the double berth forward in harbor, or the off-watch partner can choose the leeward quarter berth when at sea. There is just the minimum sitting headroom in this design― indeed this was the pivotal factor that determined the overall size of this minimalist yacht. The design provides a place for the cook to sit, and a toilet to avoid having to go on deck for this necessity. A sea hood fitted over the companionway provides a place to stand up for pulling on one’s pants, at least when the weather permits you to open the hatch.

CAROL as originally designed had no auxiliary power, a pair of oars being shown for getting her home in a calm or maneuvering through a quiet anchorage. Quite a few have been fitted with small diesels, though, an idea that can be life-saving in difficult conditions and a lot easier than rowing when the wind fails.

A CAROL hull under construction.

You laminate the cold- molded hull upside down. The deadwood is added once it is finished.

CAROL is narrow enough to trailer legally over the road in the USA, though at her weight she requires a lift or railway to haul and launch and a crane to step her mast. She was engineered to be built in WEST system cold-molded construction. She was designed in the hippie years, with many young people seeing the wonders of the world living in a tent. Quite a few more, who thought it fun, bought books on WEST system construction and saw the wonders of the sea living in a CAROL. You could too!

Note the varnished seatbacks, which make the cockpit very comfortable.

There’s lots of laminating to do.

Many variations have been built. JUNO LUCINA hails from the UK, and has been fitted with a small trunk cabin.

Bee fits very nicely into the cabin of her eponymously named yacht.

This design is featured in both of my recent books; MY YACHT DESIGNS and the Lessons they taught me, and THE BOATS I’VE LOVED— 20 Classic Sailboat Designs by Chuck Paine. Both are beautiful, full colored, first class books which give you lots more information on this design, and can be purchased on this website.

Study plans are available emailed to you in pdf format for US$ 25.00, Full printed plans including a full-size mylar hull lofting and right to build for US$ 3000.00

PDF Study Plans: $25

no shipping, sent via email

Further information may be obtained from:

CHUCKPAINE.COM LLC P. O. Box 114

Tenants Harbor, Maine 04860-0114 [email protected]

Yachting World

Digital Edition

The fast, innovative and affordable Bente 24 is arguably the most exciting new project of 2015 – one that could ‘rescue the world’

Toby Hodges
February 19, 2015

Designed to attract a new generation of sailors, Bente is a new dynamic company that has produced one of the most economical, small, fast cruisers ever seen. The Bente 24 is positively brimming with fresh ideas.

Sporty, spacious and ultra versatile, the economic Bente 24 could stimulate a younger generation back into boat ownership

What is it? Many visitors would may not have noticed the Bente 24 is an exciting new sailing boat

There was one yacht many visitors to the world’s biggest boat show in Düsseldorf would have walked straight past in the sailing boat hall, not knowing what they were missing – and probably assuming it was a motor boat. Actually, this grey, bare, rig-less, chined hull with a bright orange cuddy was the new prototype of what is the most exciting and engaging project I’ve seen in years.

There is so much new energetic thinking surrounding the Bente 24 – a stimulating platform to encourage a younger generation of sailors back into yacht ownership – that once drawn into the stand, I found it difficult to leave.

The result is a unique, utterly refreshing 24ft cruiser-racer with a base price of just €25,000. It is spacious and well thought-out for cruising, yet is quick, light and fun. For that price you get an empty, but solid shell, to which you can add removable galley, beanbags, etc – but more on the spec later. This is a racy, affordable boat to bridge the gap between dinghy and cruiser – a gap that often means young sailors give up on boat ownership. The Bente 24 is also offered in a performance version (with square-top main, bowsprit, stainless steel fin, etc) for racing.

And it’s struck a chord – over 20,000 people have been following the project on Facebook.

Note the forward rocker, hard chine and fixed sprayhood on the Bente 24

Bente is the brainchild of Stephan Boden, a sailing writer and filmmaker, and designer Alexander Vrolijk, son of prolific naval architect Rolf from judel/vrolijk & co. It’s a dynamic collaboration, mixing innovative design with the medium of translating the project to a social media-savvy audience. The founders, both from Hamburg, are far from the traditional brokers or yard reps who typically frequent boat show stands. Their look – young, energetic, bearded, with baseball caps – represents their target market. “Sailors are becoming older and older every year and nobody changes a thing,” says Boden. Well Bente is out to address that.

Bente 24 founders Stephan Boden and Alexander Vrolijk

Boden has had two books published about cruising aboard his Varianta 18 with his dog Polly, and his sailing blog is one of the best read in Germany. That four-month voyage changed his life. He discarded materialistic things to be more like his yacht: small, flexible and low-cost.

Boden’s desire to go long-term liveaboard cruising drew him to the Düsseldorf boat show last year, which he toured with Vrolijk, looking for a 24-footer. “Every boat I saw had nearly the same problem: I had to pay for stuff that I don’t want,” he told me. They decided the solution was to develop their own boat: “A modern, good sailing boat – sexy, innovative, with a good price. After that we called our project: ‘Rescue the world’.” From discussions over a bottle of Bordeaux, it took just nine months to the joining of hull and deck, and the birth of a new approach to economic fun sailing.

“We wanted to produce something young and affordable, to encourage young people to go sailing again,” says Alexander Vrolijk, who is acutely aware that the industry needs to attract a new market if it’s going to survive. On their stand was a ‘wall of fame,’ a giant clipboard showing how the project had developed.

A clipboard of design ideas to tell the story of the Bente 24’s creation at the Dusseldorf Boatshow

It shows how Boden and Vrolijk were invited by sailor and professor Michael Adlkofer to work with 18 industrial design students at the Hannover University of Design. “We decided to show them no briefing, no mood boards – nothing,” Boden explained. “We were aiming for what we call ‘mind freedom’.” Each student came back with different design details for the Bente, from furniture to safety gear. With an impressive, growing Facebook following, the Bente team had live feedback to these ideas and were already engaging a young generation of supporters.

An example of using out-of-the-box thinking on the Bente 24, this novel locker solution prevents contents falling out

Check out this Flexi Rack solution for example, an open locker with flexible/latticed mesh to keep items safe at all angles. This picture was taken of a prototype they had worked up from an Ikea cupboard. Vrolijk demonstrated it by pulling it out of its frame, as if it were a locker that had come open, and shaking it, showing how the contents remained completely captive yet easily accessible.

The Bente project had become an online collaboration.

The Bente 24 = KISS philosophy

Note the offset companionway for standing room within – and simple hard lines for ease of construction

The boat itself is simple, minimalist, but well thought out. There’s no timber on board, no real furniture in fact. The curved backrests to the saloon benches are the hull-sides. Beanbags are designed to go here or in the cockpit – or even on the dock. “Sailing is about social happenings,” Vrolijk told me as we sat in the stark interior. “You put the beanbag on the pier, with the removable pantry, and all cook together.”

If you do want to cook on board, it is possible to have full standing headroom under the cover of the cuddy, thanks to the asymmetric companionway design. A fixed sprayhood, chosen because “people don’t put sprayhoods down”, allows you to sit in protection to control the pit winch.

The hulls are being built in Poland at Yacht Service, a company that produces hulls for X-Yachts among others. Vrolijk told me that they are planning to produce the hulls in 200 hours and that they only started building this first boat 36 days before the Düsseldorf show! (You can see the timelapse videos on Bente’s website ). This helps to explain why the design comprises predominantly straight lines, so the hull can be quickly fabricated from CNC-cut, ready-laminated panels. The whole boat is designed to be stitched and glued to form one monocoque structure. It takes just three hours to join hull and deck.

The mast is deck-mounted to keep the hull watertight for offshore racing. The bilge has some curvature, and there is significant rocker forward – Vrolijk wants the Bente to be good upwind. The freeboard forward also allows for seated headroom on the forward berth.

The stark but spacious inteior of the new Bente 24 – note the wide benches for sleeping and sitting comfort

“I designed the interior on a calculator,” says Vrolijk, “I didn’t want to use a computer for styling”. The result offers low, long benches for proper seated comfort and there is surprising volume aboard – room for five in the cockpit and five below.

Designer and co-founder of Bente, Alexander Vrolijk on the forward berth of the Bente 24

Innovative solutions include the sink and galley solution, which retract on rails. These will stow away above the long (2.6m) aft berths, to be pulled-out like drawers when required. The sink drains straight into the heads for simplicity.

Bente went to Torqeedo to develop a 4kW retractable electric engine; this weighs just 60kg. It uses a lithium ion battery that weighs 23kg, yet has the same capacity as 100kg of lead acid batteries. Vrolijk concedes that this is an expensive option at €10,000, but similar to installing a diesel inboard and the tank required.

The hull looks stiff, with ringframes and longitudinal stringers – it has been engineered to last at least 30 years. “It’s the only fully cored small cruiser in the world,” says Vrolijk. “Yes, it’s cheap because it’s minimalist. We want to keep it bloody simple and make it easy to upgrade.” Hence Bente’s ‘fighting price’ of €25,000 including rig, sails, and lead bulb keel.

The new fun, affordable Bente 24

The Bente 24 will be offered with a 1.5m or 1.8m fixed keel or a swing version. It can be rotated on a trailer to 2.55m beam for road trailing. Indeed, Alexander Vrolijk is trailing the Bente to Sweden this summer for his honeymoon! Boden and his dog, Polly, meanwhile plan to go off cruising on a Bente for three or four years from 2017.

And the name? Bente is the name of the wife of one of the judel/vrolijk design team, who said she wouldn’t come on the boat if there was no heads. So from then on each idea had to pass the ‘Bente’ test.

Fast-talking Vrolijk says they’re not out to make money and that he wants to encourage others to build the boats all around the world. “`You can’t live off this, it’s not why we’re doing it. Sailing is fun sport, but people don’t understand it. For example, you have to pay €100 extra to get white sails, because we hate white sails!”

Boden agrees that sailing should be fun. “But mostly, the branch does not behave like a fun sport. And we want to communicate it, with our story, with our stands and with our boats. Bente is not only a boat; it is an event.”

The pair envisage new types of low-cost boat shows, with young like-minded partners, social events and regattas, even a Bente 24-hour race. The Bente team will go into stealth mode this spring, a hardcore test phase during which they will try to break everything.

The Bente 24 team from left to right: Stephan Boden, Margo Petrova, Max Minarek, Alexander Vrolijk, Paul Schirmer

“And we did rescue the world,” says Boden. “A guy visited us in Düsseldorf. He had a powerboat. And on that boat, he was reading my book. After he finished it, he decided to sell his powerboat and buy a yacht. And now, guess what, he is going to buy a Bente 24!”

See more at Bente24.com – but be warned, it makes surprisingly addictive reading.

Hard lines and a novel shape, the Bente 24 creates a stir at Dusseldorf

About the Bridges Point 24 Fleet

The Bridges Point 24 (BP24) is a 24-foot sloop rigged sailboat, designed by Joel White and built in Brooklin, Maine by Wade Dow at the Bridges Point Boatyard. Since 1984, over 80 were built by Wade and his son Forrest. A few years ago, Wade sold the mold for the hull to The Bridges Point Boat Company of Bar Harbor, Maine. Click Here to reach Bill Wright about a new BP24 sailboat.

The Bridges Point 24 Sailing Club is an informal group of sailors dedicated to the preservation of the fleet and the sailing and maintenance of this beautiful boat. Most of the sailboats are still their home waters of the Gulf of Maine. These fine boats can also be found coast to coast and in places like Colorado, Minnesota, Vermont and Canada. You are welcome to join our club .

BP24 Sailing Club Members can access the Bridges Point 24 Fleet Directory . It’s a great way to identify boats and meet your fellow BP24 sailors. Our Club Directory is password protected. It’s for BP24 club members only and is not published online. Names and email addresses are updated occasionally.

This website and BP24 Fleet activities are not-for-profit, volunteer run and just for fun. We sponsor the annual “homecoming regatta” in or near Brooklin, Maine on last Sunday of July.

We’re always looking for more history, stories and pictures about the Bridges Point 24 sailboat. We are hoping to locate some of the articles published in magazines, newspapers and books about this boat, its’ creators, builders and sailors. Or write your own story and send it to us! You can submit stuff here . We will archive everything and put lots of it up on this website.

We love receiving photos or videos of Bridges Point 24 sailboats! Ask questions, get directions, post pictures and stories of your adventures on our Forum for other sailors to see, enjoy and respond to.

Please let us know how we can improve this website and Happy Sails To You!

From your BP24 Sailing Club volunteers,

Alan Chesney , Commodore

Joel White Design No. 24 (1984)

LOA: 24’0” LWL: 18’8” BEAM: 7’6” DRAFT: 3’5” LEAD: 2100 lbs. DISPL: 3944 lbs. SAIL AREA: 278 sq. ft. Main: 178 sq. ft. Jib: 100 sq. ft.

“If a man must be obsessed by something, I suppose a boat is as good as anything, perhaps a bit better than most.”

– e.b. white.

Oceanis 30.1
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Oceanis Yacht 54
Oceanis Yacht 60
FIGARO BENETEAU 3
Heritage sailing yacht
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Flyer 8 SUNdeck
Flyer 8 SPACEdeck
Flyer 9 SUNdeck
Flyer 9 SPACEdeck
Antares 7 Fishing
Antares 8 Fishing
ANTARES 11 FLY
Gran Turismo 32
Gran Turismo 36
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Gran Turismo 45
Swift Trawler 35
Swift trawler 41 Sedan
Swift trawler 41 Fly
Swift Trawler 48
Grand Trawler 62
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*Recommended retail price. Value-Added Tax is subject to change, according to the country of purchase. For pricing information, availability and product characteristics, thank you to contact your dealer.

Description
Main Points

Specifications

A smart pocket cruiser fun day-sailer or an exciting club racer all-in-one, she keeps the First promise of modern performance sailing. She can easily sleep up to 4 persons but at the same time still delivers fun, exciting and modern sailing experience. A completely retractable keel gives you access to cruising spots you missed so far and a possibility to launch and recover your 24 on an ordinary slipway, opening new opportunities. She will take you on relaxed family cruising and exciting day-sailings and bring home trophies from club races.

NAVAL ARCHITECT : Samuel Manuard INTERIOR DESIGN : Sito Concept & R&D : Seascape

WHY FIRST 24 ?

Advanced GRP vacuum infusion, very light structure, modern hull shape, deep keel and twin rudders define the boat's character and sailing experience – stable, fast and easy-to-control modern planing sailing boat.

Interior is one ample open space with enough comfort and all key living onboard elements. She can comfortably sleep 4 adults and has a foldable indoor/outdoor table and even dedicated place for a chemical toilet.

Retractable keel makes road transport, winter storage and slip launching easier than ever. Provisional mast crane makes you independent of on-land facilities. On the water, she enables you to discover the most hidden and shallow places.

Despite being modern and fast, she is very safe. Insubmersibility chambers make her unsinkable, the swinging keel will save the structure in case of grounding and a well-balanced twin rudder system gives you full control.

SAILING EXPERIENCE

First 24 will show her true nature under the sails. A flat, modern planing hull and a deep ballasted keel deliver a fast and fun sailing experience. The hull shape and the deep swinging keel result in high boat stability, and the twin rudders ensure complete control in any conditions. Because of the very light hull, she'll move and keep moving even in the slightest wind breezes. Thanks to a spacious cockpit design, you'll enjoy easy handling in a solo, double-handed or fully crewed setup whether you are relaxing on an afternoon sailing, battling on a club race, or cruising with your family. In any setup, she will surprise you with fun, comfortable and relaxed sailing.

LIVING ONBOARD

Interior welcomes you with one big open-space saloon that can easily accommodate up to 4 adults, 2 on the bow V-berth and 2 on smart extendable side berths. It provides all essential amenities you can expect on a modern 7,30 m boat – crew bags for personal belongings, storage under the benches, indoor/outdoor tables and a dedicated place for the chemical toilet in the back of the saloon. For technical storage, there is a big space under the cockpit area, which is accessible from the outside. The sizeable and clean open-cockpit area offers an excellent ratio between comfort and sailing experience. Wide side benches, together with a stern bench, provide a great relaxing place; they also keep you connected and close to nature as the cockpit can easily welcome 4 or 5 sailors.

WALKTHROUGH

A connected boat.

The mobile application, Seanapps , and its onboard unit lets you view the status of the boat's various systems (battery charge, fuel or water tank levels, maintenance scheduling) via your smartphone, as well as planning your route or reviewing your sailing status using your mobile phone.

Length Overall

Beam overall

Lightship Displacement

2425,09 lbs

Draught Min

Draught Max

CE Certification

Claus, owner of a First 36

“Cruising suddenly became more fun“

Introducing newcomers to the wonders of sailing

Denis Kotlyarov and Vera Konashenok have created a new way for people from any background to taste the beauty of sailing.

Big boats bring the glory, but small boats make the sailors

Beneteau services.

With teams for sea trials, financing, customization, events, an after-sales service, and a network of dealers worldwide, BENETEAU delivers the help and expertise every boat owner needs throughout his boating life maintaining an enduring customer relationship.

Other boats from the range

4.3 m / 14’1’’

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7.99 m / 26’ 3’’

2.54 m / 8’ 4’’

10.97 m / 36'0"

3.8 m / 12'6''

14.65 m / 48’1’’

4.25 m / 13'11''

17.12 m / 56’2’’

5 m / 16’5’’

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Better Sailing

Best Small and Trailerable Sailboats

Cruising with a trailerable sailboat means that you can voyage in a small and comfy sailboat with the advantage of saving some serious costs. Having a trailerable sailboat saves you money for storage fees, boatyard haulout, and boat insurance, among others. There are two main categories of trailerable sailboats; performance-oriented boats and all-round pocket cruisers. So, if you’re a part-time sailor but still want to experience the joys of sailing continue reading this article so as to find out which are the best small and trailerable sailboats on today’s market. Know that there are many decent trailerable sailboats that managed both offshore and coastal cruising. So, keep reading and find the one that suits you best!

Catalina 22 Sport – The Best Trailerable Sailboat

Catalina brand is one of the most constructed sailboats in the US and has manufactured a great deal of capable and robust sailboats. The Catalina 22 Sport is one of the most preferred pocket and race cruisers since 2004. The model pioneers for the one-piece hull liner that has become standard in most high volume small boats. Furthermore, it has enough trim along with a well-proportioned rig and a hand-laid fiberglass hull construction. Other great features include a retractable lead keel, a roomy cabin, a spacious cockpit, and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. You can get a used Catalina 22 for as low as $5,000 and a brand spanking new one for around $40,000.

>>Also Read: Beneteau vs. Catalina: Which Is a Better Sailboat?

West Wight Potter 15

The West Wight Potter 15 is one of the best small trailerable and seaworthy 15-foot sailboats of all time. It’s easy to handle and great for both coastal and offshore cruising. She has an aluminum mast and tiller, a small cabin that comfortably sleeps a couple and also we can’t miss referring to her elegant design. Furthermore, it can be easily stored, it’s relatively cheap to buy and can be purchased both as a new or used boat, as many sailors prefer it for stepping up from a dinghy to a pocket cruiser.

>>Also Read: Best Pocket Cruisers Under 20 Feet

This small trailerable boat features a modern design and can be a top choice for many sailors, both for beginners or even for experienced ones. She surprisingly manages well in different weather conditions and she’s also relatively easy to handle. As a result, she has earned by right the title of a truly seaworthy small cruising vessel. Moreover, her robust design from the masthead to keel design is proven to be highly durable and comes with a mainsail and 110% genoa. A great feature of this model is the comfy and interior layout that offers a great amount of space for her size.

And that’s why the Hunter 27 is a great liveable sailboat having enough storage space, 6ft of standing headroom, berths, as well as plenty of counter space and seatings. Lastly, as a true trailer sailor, she has a shoal draft of under 4ft and a displacement of less than 8,000lbs. You can find her in today’s market as a used or brand-new model with a price ranging from $20,000 to $45,000.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

BayRaider

The BayRaider from UK’s Swallow boats is a somehow newcomer to the small trailerable boat market in the US. She features a large and open cockpit, is ketch-rigged, and has a gunter-style mainmast. As for the topmast and mizzen, they’re both carbon-fiber; you can also apply this to the mainmast. This model can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter weather conditions or if you want to maximize its stability you can do so by removing the 300lbs of water ballast. The water ballast offers great performance in light to medium winds and makes the boat suitable for different sailing or weather conditions and levels of experience. Lastly, as she has the centerboard and hinged rudder raised she can be maneuvered even in the thinnest water. She has a self-tacking rig and is easy to trailer; all these features make her a great choice for novices.

>>Also Read: Most Popular Sailboats

Contessa 26

The Contessa 26 is an all-time-classic and small trailerable sailboat. Even if this vessel is quite small she has proven her seaworthiness and is still preferred as an ideal pocket cruiser. She has a roomy cabin and comfortable cockpit, so there’s no need to worry about below deck space. As for the rigging, it’s quite easy to handle and is rigged as a masthead sloop. Also, her construction comprises of a deep keel and hull-mounted rudder; and that’s why she was also used as a racer. The main downside is her narrow beam which contributes to heeling although she stiffens up quickly and becomes easy to sail. In any case, there are many who admit that she’s one of the most reliable sailboats in the mid-size category.

The Hunter 22 is a great daysailer and features an open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, making her the ideal choice for friends and family outings. Moreover, the considerable amount of below-deck space has twin bunks, a roomy cabin, and a portable toilet. Rigging also includes an asymmetric spinnaker and a mainsheet traveler in case you’re keen on racing. Her construction is made out of laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Last but not least, she’s fast, stable, responsive, and is, therefore, an ideal starter-boat for novices.

Islander 24

The 24-foot Islander is a classic choice in the small trailerable sailboat market. This fiberglass model features a sturdy design and has proven her seaworthiness for coastal and family-day cruising. This model was first built in 1961 but is still available on the used market. She has a masthead sloop rig, simple overall rigging, and is appropriate for single-handing. As for below-deck space, she has a spacious cabin for two with a V-berth, and space for a head. Last but not least, many sailors admit that she’s a lot more capable than many of the later model boats in this size range.

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

Macgregor 25

This trailerable cruising sloop is a safe, easy-handling, and robust sailboat for 2 persons; perfectly suitable for coastal cruising. The boat has a spacious cabin and great safety features like foam flotation as well as the ability to self-right. Its innovative design features a retracting keel, pop-up rudder, and an easy mast-stepping system that enhances its cruising performance. Moreover, it has a large foredeck and cockpit and its lifelines and shrouds are equipped with handholds. You can easily find a Macgregor 25 on the used market with just $9,500.

>>Also Read: Best Small Sailboats To Sail Around The World

Cape Dory 28

The Cape Dory 28 is a popular trailerable sailboat known for its great performance both offshore and inland. Even though it has a small size it offers comfortable living spaces below the deck. In addition, she has proven to be more capable than other larger sailboats. It’s designed with a well-balanced deck arrangement along with a full-length keel with an attached rudder, a low freeboard, and a well-proportioned traditional trunk cabin. These sailboats were originally rigged as sloops with self-tending and club-footed jibs. This sail plan is really great for stiff weather conditions. Lastly, it can be easily hauled-out and transported regardless of its 28ft size. Ideal for salt-water cruising and for tighter coastal waters you can find a used model for $12,900.

>>Also Read: How Much Do Sailboats Weigh?

The Newport 27 is an all-time-classic that was first built in 1971 and is still considered a common choice for small sailboats amongst sailors. Although it has a small size it doesn’t lack interior space. The standing headroom is just over 6ft, there’s a V-berth, a head, and a hanging locker forward of the bulkhead. Also, settees measure 6ft in length and extend to either side of the saloon. Some variations include a fixed dinette with raised seating fore and aft, a starboard quarter berth, and an aft-placed head. You can find them on the used market from $10,000 to $18,000, depending on their condition and any possible upgrades. Even though it’s not a really robust offshore cruiser, the Newport 27 is still a capable trailerable sailboat and if upgraded and equipped accordingly it can definitely offer decent coastal cruising to a singlehander or a couple.

>>Also Read: What Are The Best Beginner Sailboats?

Trailerable sailboats are a great choice for beginner sailors as well as for couple and family outings. Keep in mind that the aforementioned boats are not the only options on today’s market. I recommend these boats because they’re easy to handle, small but roomy, easy to trailer, and have an overall robust design. Generally, a trailer sailor will save you costs for purchasing but also for marina fees. Keep in mind that many sailors choose to sail overseas with a trailerable sailboat, so there are suitable models for a long-passage voyage. Lastly, small sailboats can offer different kinds of sailing adventures; weekend cruising, coastal cruising, island hopping, and sometimes an offshore voyage. I hope that you enjoyed reading this article and that it will help you out in order to pick the right trailerable sailboat for your needs.

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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THE CATALINA 24

Pilot house views, premium is what we do, the chris-craft way to entertain.

A patent-pending reversible helm seat unique to the Catalina 24. In its forward position, the seat is raised for optimal captain visibility. When converted to face aft, the seat creates a comfortable social zone. Integrated into the helm seat are storage pockets on both starboard and port sides, as well as custom upholstery with accents finished in varnished mahogany and stainless steel. Just below the helm seat, a 65-gallon Yeti cooler slides to accommodate the seat's position.

STARTING AT

*Our authorized dealer establishes the final selling price. Prices exclude delivery, sales tax, registration, dealer prep and where applicable, import duty and fees.

Specifications Overview

25'2" 7.68 m, 8'5" 2.57m, 5,905 lbs 2,678 kg, specifications.

Length Overall

25'2"

Length Watterline

19'9"

Maximum Beam

8'5"

Maximum Beam @ LWL

7'3"

Maximum Hull Draft

1'6"

Freeboard @ Midship

3'7"

Transom Angle

Bridge Clearance

7'6"

Fuel Capacity

Fresh Water Capacity

Black Water Capacity

Maximum Persons

Loaded Displacement

Standard Features And Equipment

Synthetic Teak - Foredeck and Anchor Locker

Synthetic Teak - Footpad / Footrests

Synthetic Teak - Helm Console / Windshield Accents

Black Teak Caulk Color

5 Year - Component Warranty

3 Year - Canvas/Upholstery Warranty

5 Year - Transferable Warranty

Anchor - Bow Locker

Bow Scuff Plate - Stainless Steel

Certifications and Standards - NMMA, ABYC, USCG

Color Selections - Boot Stripe, Multiple Color Selections

Color Selections - Hull Side, Gelcoat Ivory Cream

Deck Fill Plates - Stainless Steel

Deck - Diamond Pattern Non-Skid, Fiberglass

Flag/Pennant - Embroidered Chris-Craft and US Flag Kit w/ Stainless Steel Magnetic Pole and Base

Gunnel Trim Rubrail - Molded PVC w/ Stainless Steel Insert

Hardware - Stainless Steel Bow and Stern Eyes

Hardware - Stainless Steel Bow Light Cover

Hardware - Chrome Plated Stainless Steel Fasteners

Hardware - Stainless Steel Flush Mount Mooring Cleats

Hardware - Stainless Steel Thru-Hull Fittings

Hull – Chris-Craft Trademark Tumblehome Design

Hull - Deep V Bottom w/Flared Bow

Hull - Deck Joint - Mechanically, Chemically Bonded

Hull - Stringer System and Liner, 1 Piece Fiberglass Foam Filled for Flotation and Noise Reduction

Ladder, Swim Platform - Pull Out Aluminum

Ladder, Side Door

Ladder, Swim - Stowaway

Lighting - Bow Docking Lights, LED

Lighting - Navigation Lights, Stainless Steel and International Compliance

Outboard Engine Stainless Steel Chris-Craft Logo Plates

Self Draining Cockpit

Swim Platform - Integral

Swim Platform Grab Handle - Stainless Steel

Top - Pilot House w/LED Lighting and Speakers

Trim Tabs - Lenco w/ Indicators

Beverage Holders/Rod Holders - Stainless Steel

Bolsters - Padded Gunwale

Canvas - Console Cover

Canvas - Helm Seat Cover

Coaming Bolster - Forward and Aft

Door - Cockpit Side Entry (Side Boarding Door with Ladder)

Drains - Stainless Steel

Fishing - Fish Box, In-Floor Storage

Fishing - Live Well, w/Light

Fishing - Rod Storage

Fishing - Transom Rod Holders

Fishing - Gunwale Rod Holder Cup Holders

Fishing - Fish Package (Includes Livewell Plumbing, Fish Box Pump Out, Raw Water Washdown, and Additional Rod Holders)

Grabrails - Stainless Steel

Helm - Dash Mounted Compass

Helm - Dash and Switch/Silver Perforated Panels

Helm - Electronics Package, Garmin 12” Multifunction Display (w/Chart Plotter, DF & VHF, Engine Data and Stereo)

Helm Electronics Garmin VHF Radio

Helm - Engine Controls Binnacle Mount Controls

Helm - Engine Controls, Electronic Control - DTS/DEC

Helm Flush Mounted Electronics

Helm - Electric Single Trumpet Horn

Helm - Ignition Safety Switch(es)

Helm - Stainless Steel Model Designator

Helm - Mahogany Steering Wheel

Helm - Steering, Tilt w/Power Assist

Helm - Stereo Remote, MP3/USB Inputs w/ Fusion Bluetooth Enabled

Lighting - LED Courtesy

Outlets/Input - 12v Accessory Outlet(s)

Outlets/Input - USB Auxiliary Input

Seating - Aft Fold Out Bench

Seating - Forward Console Bench, Flip-Up w/ Porta-Potti Head

Seating - Helm Seat With Live Well and Slide Out Cooler

Shower - Transom

Stereo Speakers - JL Audio Sound System

Stowage - Aft Deck Compartments

Stowage - Bow, Port and Starboard Recessed

Stowage - Helm Underseat

Stowage - Helm Footrest w/Battery Switch

Stowage - Cooler, Slide Out Below Helm Seat

Transom Entrance - Gate - with Stainless Steel Latch

Upholstery Construction - High Density Foam with Antimicrobials and Open Cell Mesh for Drying

Vinyl - Heavy Duty, Stain/UV Resistant

Vinyl - Multiple Design/Color Selections

Windscreen Wipers

Dockside Pumpout

Door - Lockable Entry

Fiberglass Lined Floor w/Headliner

Fittings - Stainless Steel Hardware

Lighting - LED Overhead

Sink - Cold Water

Toilet - Porti-Potti

Battery Charger

Battery Switch w/Breakers

Battery Tray(s)

Bilge Pump - Forward and Aft w/Autofloat System

Electric Wiring - Color Coded and Labeled w/Duetch Connectors

Electric Wiring - Tinned Copper

Electric Bonding System

Electronics Panel - Aluminum, Powder Coated

Fuel System - Aluminum Tanks w/Anti-Siphon Valves and Electric Sending Units

Fuel System - EPA compliant

Pump - Freshwater, Pressurized

Seakeeper Ride - Vessel Attitude Control System

Edition Selection

Standard Edition - Synthetic Teak

Heritage Trim Edition

Heritage Edition

Top Selection

Pilot House

Engine Type

Mercury Verado - Single (300 PSHP) DTS

Mercury Verado - Single (V-10 350 PSHP) DTS

Mercury Verado - Single (V-10 400 PSHP) DTS

Engine Options

Active Trim

Custom Painted Engine Accent Panel

Custom Color Painted Outboard

Ivory Cream Painted Outboard

Ivory Cream - Gelcoat

Midnight Blue - Gelcoat

Macadamia - Gelcoat

Midnight Blue - Paint

Frozen Blue (Metallic) - Paint

Portofino Blue (Metallic) - Paint

Port Red (Metallic) - Paint

Fountain Blue (Metallic) - Paint

Deep Sapphire (Metallic) - Paint

Silver Bullet (Metallic) - Paint

Blue Crystal (Metallic) - Paint

Champagne (Metallic) - Paint

Zeus Bronze (Metallic) - Paint

Charcoal (Metallic) - Paint

Black Pearl (Metallic) - Paint

Stripe Color

Riviera Red

Midnight Blue

Cockpit Base Vinyl Color

Cockpit insert vinyl color, contrast stitching colors, electronic voltage selection, helm seat configuration.

Helm Seat with Live Well and Slide Out Cooler

Additional Options

Air Compressor - 12V w/ Storage Rack

Battery Charging System

CE Certification

Cover - Outboard

Fender Clips (4)

Garmin VHF Radio w/ Antenna

Mediterranean Storable Aft Sun Shade

Mediterranean Storable Bow Sun Shade

Ocean Shipping Cradle

Painted Underside of Pilot House Top

Pillows - Weighted (Qty: 4)

Premium Audio System

Raw Water Washdown

Seakeeper Ride System

Sirius Satellite Radio - USA & CAN Only (no subscription)

Ski Pylon - Pop Up in Aft Coaming

Teak Table w/ FWD and AFT Bases

Tecma Head System (includes dockside pumpout)

Underwater Lights (2)

Macerator w/ Overboard Discharge

Water Ready - Includes Batteries

Windlass - Stainless Steel Anchor & Approx. 200' Line

Windlass Prewire

Cover - Mooring

Flooring - woven seagrass.

Rod Holders/Hardtop Mounted

Canvas Color

Gallery / catalina 24, video / catalina 24.

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Sailboat Guide

Pacific Seacraft Dana 24

Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 is a 27 ′ 3 ″ / 8.3 m monohull sailboat designed by William Crealock and built by Pacific Seacraft between 1984 and 1999.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
LOA: Length overall in feet
Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

From BlueWaterBoats.org :

Penned by the late great Bill Crealock and introduced by Pacific Seacraft in 1984, the Dana, at only 24 feet on deck, is perhaps the consummate pocket cruiser. The boat combines traditional styling with the kind of keen craftsmanship and solid construction upon which Pacific Seacraft built its reputation.

Like all good boats, the Dana 24 is well balanced, fast for her size and seakindly. Her shallow draft allows for exploration in cruising grounds larger yachts cannot, and her design, now over 25 years old, is well proven with a number of ocean crossings to her credit. Yet for all her offshore capabilities she is one of a select few that can go home on a trailer.

Although the Dana 24 has never been a cheap boat to buy, owners can console themselves with the lower maintenance bills from a blue water cruiser of diminutive size. Perhaps Crealock best sums it up, “It’s a wonderful entry level, genuine go anywhere cruising boat”.

It could be said that the Pacific Seacraft of yesteryear had an affinity for pocket cruisers. Right from the get go, the company introduced the Pacific Seacraft 25 and later the Orion 27 , both strong and capable offshore cruisers designed by one of the co-founders himself, Henry Morschladt. However it’s the Flicka 20 that we remember most when we think of small and capable. Pacific Seacraft acquired the Flicka 20 around 1977 and became a hit for the company. By the early-1980s the company was looking to augment Flicka with a larger boat of similar style.

It was Bill Crealock, well respected for his seaworthy designs, who got the commission for the new boat and by 1984 the Dana 24 was introduced. She was fairly well received, in fact a respectable 222 boats were sold in the subsequent fifteen years before a booming mid-1990s economy shifted interest to bigger boats.

“The taste went to bigger boats for a while and smaller boats just got put aside… The size of boats people get seems to vary with the square root of the Dow Jones average” – Bill Crealock

Pacific Seacraft ceased production of the Dana 24 in 1997, but after a three year hiatus interest was reignited as the economy slowed. The company recommenced limited production in 2000 however only a few were sold.

In 2007, Pacific Seacraft entered receivership before changing hands to its new owner, Stephen Brodie. Interestingly, the Dana 24 molds were not part of Brodie’s acquisition. Instead the molds passed to a dealership in Seattle called Seacraft Yachts who have made the boat available once again (starting with hull number #351).

In total at least 250 boats have been built. In this time there’s been little to improve upon the little Dana 24, the boat remains almost unchanged, a true testament to the quality of Crealock’s original design.

Configuration and Layout

The Dana 24 is a moderate displacement cruiser, below the waterline you’ll find a full keel with a forefoot cutaway and a keel-hung rudder. Her sheerline is elegant and she has a memorably plumb bow with a teak bowsprit platform. Compromise on her size means that she is lacking the distinctive Crealock double-ended stern in favor of a wide and almost vertical transom.

The boat retains the signature cutter rig, that’s so popular among the blue water fraternity. Some have optionally been setup for single handing with sheeting and halyard lines led back into the safety of the cockpit.

The cockpit provides good protection from the elements and there are two generously sized cockpit drains. The two cockpit seats are long enough to sleep on at 6′ 3″ in length, and have large lockers are below. There’s a watertight hatch on the cockpit sole to provide access to the engine.

Down below you’ll find of 6′ 1″ of headroom and it’s apparent that 8′ 7″ of beam has been plenty for Crealock to play with. The interior layout demonstrates excellent functionality and clever use of space. Her interior space is around 50% larger than other boats of similar length, making her feel like a much bigger boat.

She has an open plan interior with hand rubbed oiled teak cabinetry, and a teak-and-holly sole that gives her a beautifully warm and inviting feel. As you descend the companionway, on the port side is a full galley with a gimballed two-burner propane stove, a large insulated icebox and a 10-inch-deep sink with hand-pump. A flip down cover over the stove provides extra counter space to work with, as does another in the seating area. To starboard there is an enclosed head are with head, integral shower pan, hanging locker and sink with hand pump.

The four available berths are generous and comfortable a v-berth berth that is 6′ 8″ long and 6′ 9″ wide, as well as two 6′ 6″ settees with cleverly placed foot room that tucks beneath the v-berth.

Beneath the forward berth are two large drawers and a drop locker. The cabin shelving has removable fiddles and the hanging locker is louvered for extra ventilation. The dining table slides out from underneath the v-berth, above the two drawers, and is a particularly clever feature, having a hinged center which fits around the interior metal post and can be fully or partially extended.

Construction

True to Pacific Seacraft tradition, the hull and deck are solidly constructed from hand laminated fiberglass. The innermost layers are polyester and the outermost layers have utilized osmosis resisting vinylester resin since 1989. The deck is balsa cored with plywood core in high load zones. The hull to deck joint is a double flange bedded in high tensile polyurethane adhesive compound and through-bolted with stainless bolts. The interior module is also of vinylester resin and is bonded to the hull with fiberglass mat and woven roving.

The interior fittings are white matte below counter height and teak above. Lead is used as ballast and is encapsulated in fiberglass. All through-hull fittings are solid bronze. Chainplates are through-fastened to the hull with stainless steel bolts and full backing plates.

Since 1989 the boat has had eight rectangular bronze port lights in place of the original round bronze ports.

Like all Crealock designs, the Dana 24 integrates a good deal of comfort in a well controlled and balanced hull. She’s seakindly boat with a mellow motion through the water and her high ballast ratio (nearly 40%) no doubt helps her ultimate stability. The Crealock philosophy being comfort and stability translates to lower crew fatigue and faster, safer passages.

Light air performance is not her strength, unless set up particularly well and skillfully sailed, don’t expect too much boat speed, she is after all a heaver displacement boat on the grand scheme of things. In a breeze the Dana comes to life, she points well to windward and sails her best on a reach, while downwind her keel and hull form tracks well without a hint of squirming and with less roll than most.

One acknowledged weakness is her inability to hove-to, her high freeboard in her bow sections coupled with a big forefoot cutaway on her keel means her nose is too easily knocked away.

Expect a top speed around 6.5 knots, and we’ve heard reports that well set up examples can top 120 mile days under during long passages. Not bad for a boat her size and displacement.

Buyer’s Notes

The Dana 24 is a well proven boat and to date no significant weaknesses in her construction have been found. For further research, it’s recommended buyers consult the active community of Dana 24 owners who have an email list running at Yahoo Groups (see below for a link).

In the used boat market the Dana 24 has enjoyed popularity and prices reflect this. As at 2010 the asking price for a used Dana 24 is in the range of $40k-90k USD. A new Dana will set you back in the region of $150k USD for the basic model without any of the large range optional and extras.

Links, References and Further Reading

» Dana owners group on Yahoo » An owner’s in-depth review of the Dana by Benjy » Article on the Dana by Heather Frickmann » Review of the Dana from 48 degrees North by Richard Hazelton » Dana 24 video review by Lattitudes and Attitudes, Seafaring Magazine » Twenty Small Sailboats to Take You Anywhere by John Vigor , (Ch11, p65-70) an in depth look at the Dana 24. ISBN:978-0939837328

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Sailboat Reviews

Corsair F-24 Boat Test

The corsair f-24 mk i cooks up a budget-friendly taste of fast..

In May 1999 Practical Sailor reviewed the then-new Corsair F-24 Mark II trimaran. Nearly 20 years later, were here to follow up with a focus on the Corsair F-24 Mark I, a boat that can represent a good value today since many newer designs have entered the market.

The late Ian Farrier (1947-2017) designed fast, trailerable trimarans for more than 40 years. A New Zealander, his first production success was the 18-foot Trailertri. His 19-foot Tramp was Boat-of-the-Year in Australia in 1981. In 1983 John Walton (of the Wal Mart family) founded Corsair to build high-performance multihulls, lured Farrier to Chula Vista, California, and the result was the very popular F-27 ( PS September 1990 ). Almost 500 have been sold since it went into production in 1985. It has since been superceded by the F-28.

In 1991, Corsair added the F-24 Sport Cruiser. This abbreviated version of the F-27, with a starting price more than 30 percent lower than the F-27, was designed to be affordable.

While she remained sharp in the performance department, her accommodations were even more spartan. We spoke with Ian Farrier several times about anchoring and cruising; it was pretty clear that his heart was in racing and he even suggested we were probably better in tune with the needs and practicalities of small multi-hull cruising than he was. Still, he designed a cabin that can handily do both, if you can accept the compromises.

The deck layout is similar to the typical 24-foot monohull, except that it is wide-18 feet-with wing trampolines on both sides. In addition to providing stability, this gives lounging space in fair weather and greatly increases safety in rough weather. Though lacking railings and lifelines-other than a pulpit and wrap-around stern rail-its hard to fall off the F-24 if jacklines and tethers are used. A single large Lewmar foredeck hatch provides ample ventilation. The cockpit will easily seat six, but three is more comfortable for vigorous sailing.

The cockpit is equipped with four Lewmar 16 winches (the jib winches are one-speed self-tailers, the reacher winches are standard two-speed), two multi-line jammers, and ten cam cleats. All essential sail controls, including halyards, are accessible from the cockpit, making for easy single-handed sailing.

The mainsail furls by winding around the boom; fast, convenient, and very gentle on the typical Mylar/carbon laminate sails. Reefing requires a quick trip to the mast to crank the boom around and attach the down haul, but that is it. The set up makes a vang impractical but few multihulls use them anyway, preferring to control the boom with the traveler.

The bow anchor locker holds two anchors and two rodes, so long as they are folding designs. Trimarans are best anchored using a bridle; the test boat uses a 20-foot Dyneema bridle that is retracted onto the wing nets when not in use.

The typical 6 horsepower outboard delivers about 5.3 knots at 1/3 throttle and about 6.5 knots wide open. The side mount provides decent performance in chop, pitching less than transom-mounted engines.

The portable fuel tank is protected from the sun and solar heating in an under-seat locker. It is wide is open for venting (but sealed from the cabin) and drains out through the open transom, safe and out of the way.

Since the emphasis was fast cruising and racing, storage and amenities are sparse. In the cabin there is storage behind the seat backs. The large rectangular top-opening lockers in the galley counter and under the seats can be fitted with hanging bags for easier access.

The head compartment has sufficient space for toilet paper and cleaning supplies. There is a large bottomless locker in the cockpit that also provides access to under cockpit areas. Lockers in the amas (outriggers) can hold light, bulky items.

There is sitting head room and ample seating for four on the starboard settee. An Origo alcohol stove and sink with rocker pump provide a minimal galley. A large cooler slides easily under the companionway. The forward V-berth is quite long, though a little pinched at the foot. The settee converts into a twin-sized bed using filler boards that slide neatly into storage slots under the companionway.

A portable head sits in a well behind a curtain, and is typically moved into the cockpit at bedtime for better privacy. Some owners rate the interior as poor, but most call it camping-out comfortable, suitable for an overnight or weekend.

Performance

Everyone wants to know how fast the little trimaran will go. To windward it points as well as most monohulls, thanks to a deep centerboard. Shell tack through less than 90 degrees if you pinch, though it’s faster if you bear off just a little. Keeping up with 40-foot cruisers is easy on any point of the sail, and you quickly chase them down on a reach.

With the wind free, expect to match true wind speed up to about 12 knots, after which you may reef or bleed power, depending on your mood. In lighter winds, pop out the reacher and you’ll get a whole new gear, easily exceeding wind speed.

In stronger winds, bear off until the true wind is on the quarter, and you’ll see 14 knots or more, although handling requires sharp attention if you haven’t reefed.

Compared to the Stiletto 27 (see PS July 2016), it is more weatherly, tacks faster, can safely handle more wind, but is slightly slower off the wind (though not as scary).

Upwind reefing begins at about 15 knots true for those who like fast sailing, but there is no reason not to reef a little earlier and enjoy more relaxed, but still spirited sailing. Maximum angle of heel is about 15 degrees.

With two reefs and the jib rolled up a little, shell take quite a lot of wind, perhaps 30 knots, without much excitement. Upwind in 20 knots is fun with the right reefs in, and that’s pretty good for a 24-foot boat. Farrier designed these conservatively, with windy conditions in mind. They are quite popular on San Francisco Bay, an area known for strong breezes.

The Mark II was touted as the new and improved version of the Mark I. By replacing the centerboard with a daggerboard, weight was reduced, and a rotating mast increased power, making the Mark II noticeably faster. The Mark I has more usable cabin space, since the centerboard case is hidden inside the settee, and the Mark I cockpit is also several feet longer, a boon to fun daysailing.

The centerboard is also a blessing in shoal water, automatically pivoting up if it smells the bottom, instead of breaking things when you find a sandbar at 15 knots. The Mark I has a kick-up rudder fitted into a cassette, keeping it under the boat, while the Mark II has a transom hung rudder. The Mark I works as a day sailor and weekender, while racers prefer the Mark II.

As with any multihull, there is always the capsize canard. Sailed poorly, any sailboat can capsize, says Farrier. My designs are not immune to this. With over 1,000 Farriers now sailing, even a low 1 percent capsize ratio would mean 10 capsizes a year. However, the capsize rate actually appears to be averaging .03 percent.

Large ocean-going monohull yachts are foundering annually, sometimes with loss of life. The basic safety difference is that the monohulls ultimate stability is resting on the bottom, while the multihulls is floating on top.

Reef appropriately and the risk is truly small. F-27s have completed successful transpacific and transatlantic crossings, and even the first circumnavigation of the North Pole under sail. Finally, the F-24 can’t sink. Built-in foam flotation, light construction, and multiple crash tanks in the amas and foam-filled akas (cross beams) make this impossible.

The F-24s main hull is fine, with a V-entry forward, U-sections mid-ships, and a relatively flat transom to damp pitching and provide lift for planing. Going to weather, most of the weight is on the amas, with fine V-sections that cut nicely through waves. Powering through short chop is not a strong suit among multihulls, but she has demonstrated considerable ability in choppy waters such as San Francisco Bay and the Chesapeake.

The heart of Farriers designs is the patented Farrier Folding System. Refined over the years, the mechanism allows the akas to fold-up, which reduces the F-24s beam from 17 feet 11 inches to 8 feet 2 inches.

We kept our F-24 in a small boat marina for a time, folding after every sail; we did this while motoring in the channel, requiring only a few minutes of light effort by one person.

While the claim of trailering to sailing in 20 minutes may be true for seasoned crews that race every weekend, allow two hours for the transition if you do this only occasionally.

Although no single step is physically difficult for a single person, there are many steps and a second pair of hands makes for safer work. The engineering has proved very reliable, and now that the patents have expired, copies abound.

Construction

Performance multihulls built to their designed displacements are hardly ever built on production lines. Corsair has been the exception to that rule. Light weight is an essential if you want a cat or trimaran to sail up to its speed potential, but you’re not likely to achieve it with normal materials and common construction techniques.

Turning out an F-24 that weighs 1,800 pounds (1,650 pounds for the Mark II) is no simple matter. It involves almost 50 separate molded parts, considerably more than same-length monohulls.

Carbon fiber and Kevlar reinforcement, vacuum-bagging, double-biased fabrics, acrylic-modified epoxy resin, and NPG gelcoat are all elements you’d expect to see in a custom shop. They all go into the F-24.

Glass/resin control, published laminate schedules, a computer-generated production protocol, universally bonded top hat joints between hull and deck, barrier coats of vinyl ester resin, isopthalic resin throughout the rest of the laminate, and bulkheads tabbed in seven places to the hull makes for a light but sturdy boat.

The akas appear to be held in place by the anchor bolts inserted when unfolding, but the sailing forces are actually carried by strong pivot arms connecting the akas to anchor points near the waterline, anchored deep within the hull, and by compression blocks where the arms meet the hull at deck level.

After 20 years we’ve had a few minor issues related to failed bedding and damage to the balsa core, but nothing affecting the main structural elements.

Conclusions

Whether you’re downsizing from a cruising cat, or upsizing from the family Hobie, the F-24 offers the sports car of youthful dreams, on a budget.

Is it worth paying three times as much as you would for a 24-foot mono-hull with more room? Not if you’re looking for cabin space and need an enclosed head. On the other hand, if fun sailing is the goal, the dollar-to-grin ratio is very high. Market demand is dependable and you will get your money back. It’s not the best beginners boat.

You can’t just sheet-and-forget, and getting the best from her requires experience and attention. But if you have a beach cat or fast dinghy background, it’s a great way to gain weekender capability without losing any of the fun. If you need a little more comfort or more speed, look at the Corsair F-27. And if money is no object there’s a world of Farrier designs to choose from.

Cruising in an F-24 is a tiny step above camping, but for the bare-bones cruiser who wants to cover some ground quickly, it fits the bill quite handily.

1. An alcohol stove and a small sink serve the micro-galley. 2. The V-berth is tight, but the convertible settee in the main cabin makes a twin-sized bed. 3. The porta-potty sits under the V-berth. It is often moved to the cockpit at night while sleeping. 4. A folding table seats one for dining.

Fast, weatherly, and quick to tack.
Stable. Only 15 degrees heel.
Reefing starts at about 18 knots apparent.
Easy to fold from 18-foot beam to
8-foot in about two minutes.
Roomy cockpit. Tramps are fun in the summer.
Eighteen-foot beam makes it hard to fall off.
Well-built with stout rigging.
Cramped cabin. No standing headroom and few amenities.
Limited storage space.
Portable head and no head compartment.
Quick motion.
Slow under power.

Corsair Marine

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2024 PONTOON / TRITOON TRAILER 24-26 FT - $5,500 (Fort Lauderdale)

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2024 PONTOON / TRITOON TRAILER 24-26 FT - boats - by owner - marine...

New trailer for 24-26 FT tritoon. No brakes.

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Best Bluewater Sailboats Under 24 Feet
The best bluewater sailboats under 24 feet are the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24, Norseboat 21.5, Catalina 22 Sport, Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, and West Wight Potter 19. These sailboats have ample space for a couple and even a moderately-sized family along with all the amenities you may need. A roomy cabin, galley, and settees are necessary to go ...
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The First 24 SE is a modern high-tech sport cruiser, capable of delivering thrilling performance in a versatile package that is easy to use and maintain.She is of course trailerable, and her smart mast-raising system allows a single user to launch and go, giving you access to a wide variety of cruising and racing grounds, from international one-design regattas to coastal adventure races.
9 Best Trailerable Sailboats
This 24-foot fiberglass boat features a robust design and ease-of-maintenance rarely found on boats with similar capabilities. The design has been around for over 40 years, and it's served weekender and cruising sailor alike. The Islander 24 is a well-rounded cruising vessel with a spacious cabin for two (or more). The cabin features a ...
J/24- World's Largest One-Design Sailboat Class
Recognized as an international class by World Sailing, the J/24 has been selected for use in nearly every major international championship, including the PanAm Games, World Sailing Games, and Nations Cup. The J/24 is the world's most popular keelboat class, with over 5,500 boats built and over 50,000 people actively sailing in more than 150 ...
20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender
The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form. $19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com.
24′ Double-ended voyager CAROL
324 sq ft. D/L RATIO. 319. SA/DISP RATIO. 18.0. CAROL is in many ways my favorite pocket cruiser— a scaled-down and flatter-deadrise version of my popular FRANCES. She evokes an adventurous spirit that prevailed in the happy times of the late '70s when I designed her. At 24 feet she's as small as a prudent sailor would ever think of ...
C&C 24
24.00 ft / 7.32 m: LWL: ... Like the LWL, it will vary with the weights of fuel, water, stores and equipment. A boat's actual draft is usually somewhat more than the original designed or advertised draft. For boats with adjustable keels (centerboards, daggerboards, lifting and swing keels), Draft (max) is with the board down. ...
The fast, innovative and affordable Bente 24 is arguably the most
The Bente 24 = KISS philosophy Note the offset companionway for standing room within - and simple hard lines for ease of construction The boat itself is simple, minimalist, but well thought out.
About the Bridges Point 24 Fleet
The Bridges Point 24 (BP24) is a 24-foot sloop rigged sailboat, designed by Joel White and built in Brooklin, Maine by Wade Dow at the Bridges Point Boatyard. Since 1984, over 80 were built by Wade and his son Forrest. A few years ago, Wade sold the mold for the hull to The Bridges Point Boat Company of Bar Harbor, Maine.
First 24
First 24 will show her true nature under the sails. A flat, modern planing hull and a deep ballasted keel deliver a fast and fun sailing experience. The hull shape and the deep swinging keel result in high boat stability, and the twin rudders ensure complete control in any conditions. Because of the very light hull, she'll move and keep moving ...
Best Small and Trailerable Sailboats
The 24-foot Islander is a classic choice in the small trailerable sailboat market. This fiberglass model features a sturdy design and has proven her seaworthiness for coastal and family-day cruising. This model was first built in 1961 but is still available on the used market.
Catalina 24
The Chris-Craft Way To Entertain. A patent-pending reversible helm seat unique to the Catalina 24. In its forward position, the seat is raised for optimal captain visibility. When converted to face aft, the seat creates a comfortable social zone. Integrated into the helm seat are storage pockets on both starboard and port sides, as well as ...
Beneteau First 24 boats for sale
2024 Beneteau First 24. US$96,225. ↓ Price Drop. US $753/mo. Ancasta International Boat Sales | Delivery Spring 2024, United Kingdom.
Morgan 24/25
However, with ballast placed relatively high due to the shallowness of its keel, the Morgan 24/25 is a bit on the tender side in heavy air. On Deck. The cockpit is eight feet long, but underway it comfortably seats just two on each side of a long (4-1/2′) low tiller that extends within 22 inches of the companionway.
Bristol 24
Bristol 24 is a 24′ 6″ / 7.5 m monohull sailboat designed by Paul Coble and built by Sailstar Boat Co. and Bristol Yachts between 1966 and 1983. ... LOA: Length overall in feet; Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet; 28.42 <20: lightweight racing boat. 20-30: coastal cruiser.
Shark 24
190 sq ft (18 m 2) Class is a member of World Sailing. [ edit on Wikidata] The Shark 24 is a Canadian -designed 24 ft sailing yacht which has earned itself a reputation of extraordinary reliability and longevity among sailors both in North America and Central Europe. Having been designed by George Hinterhoeller back in 1959 to cope well even ...
BRISTOL 24
24.58 ft / 7.49 m: LWL: ... Like the LWL, it will vary with the weights of fuel, water, stores and equipment. A boat's actual draft is usually somewhat more than the original designed or advertised draft. For boats with adjustable keels (centerboards, daggerboards, lifting and swing keels), Draft (max) is with the board down. ...
Pacific Seacraft Dana 24
Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 is a 27′ 3″ / 8.3 m monohull sailboat designed by William Crealock and built by Pacific Seacraft between 1984 and 1999. ... LOA: Length overall in feet; Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet; 27.92 <20: lightweight racing boat. 20-30: coastal cruiser.
Saffier SE 24 Lite
The Saffier SE 24 is a 24-foot sailboat and daysailer that is propelled by wind and electricity. An electric propulsion system charges the integrated solar panels 24/7. Moreover, This sailboat is a 24-foot and can be rigged up or down in a blink of an eye. Therefore, the Saffier SE 24 Lite is easily transportable and can be launched off a ...
24 foot Sailboats for Sale
24 foot Sailboats for Sale (1 - 15 of 16) $57,500 1980 AC Cat 30 Boston, MA. Custom Re-Fit! Over 6' Headroom Below! Power Winch! Half-Dodger! Battenless Mainsail! ... Wyle Wabbit 24' sailboat. Excellent condition, ready to sailRoad ready trailerNew professional hull awlgrip, sails in good conditionVery fun light weight trapeze speedster. Tools
Corsair F-24 Boat Test
Refined over the years, the mechanism allows the akas to fold-up, which reduces the F-24s beam from 17 feet 11 inches to 8 feet 2 inches. We kept our F-24 in a small boat marina for a time, folding after every sail; we did this while motoring in the channel, requiring only a few minutes of light effort by one person.
NEPTUNE 24 CB
24.00 ft / 7.32 m: LWL: ... Like the LWL, it will vary with the weights of fuel, water, stores and equipment. A boat's actual draft is usually somewhat more than the original designed or advertised draft. For boats with adjustable keels (centerboards, daggerboards, lifting and swing keels), Draft (max) is with the board down. ...
2024 PONTOON / TRITOON TRAILER 24-26 FT
2024 PONTOON / TRITOON TRAILER 24-26 FT - $5,500 (Fort Lauderdale) ‹ image 1 of 3 › boat type: other. length overall (LOA): 26. propulsion type: power. year manufactured: 2024. QR Code Link to This Post. New trailer for 24-26 FT tritoon. No brakes. post id: 7729316552. posted: 2024-03-21 08:29.
RAINBOW 24
24.00 ft / 7.32 m: J: 8.80 ft / 2.68 m: P: ... 1997), states that a boat with a BN of less than 1.3 will be slow in light winds. A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing", International Marine, Camden, Maine, 1991, states that a BN of 1 is ...

Best Trailerable Sailboats

2) West Wight Potter 19

3) Newport 27

4) Cape Dory 28

5) Islander 24

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The fast, innovative and affordable Bente 24 is arguably the most exciting new project of 2015 – one that could ‘rescue the world’

About the Bridges Point 24 Fleet

“If a man must be obsessed by something, I suppose a boat is as good as anything, perhaps a bit better than most.”

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THE CATALINA 24

STARTING AT

Specifications Overview

Standard Features And Equipment

Edition Selection

Top Selection

Engine Type

Engine Options

Stripe Color