Bandholm 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The journey of the Bandholm 24 began in 1971, emerging from the Bandholm Yachts shipyard in Denmark, a company founded by Knud Olsen in 1961. Olsen's overarching vision for his yachts, ranging from 20 to 35 feet, centered on creating vessels suited for practical sailing and durable performance. The Bandholm 24, as an "archipelago cruiser," perfectly embodied this philosophy, designed to navigate coastal waters with confidence and ease. Bandholm Yachts flourished during an era when fiberglass became the material of choice for yacht construction, allowing for consistent production and enhanced durability. The company built boats throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, maintaining a steadfast commitment to craftsmanship that ensured their vessels, including the Bandholm 24, would stand the test of time. Production of the Bandholm 24 continued until 1984. There is no widely documented information suggesting significant variations or MkI/MkII versions during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While compact, the Bandholm 24 has earned a reputation as a robust and dependable sailboat. Owners and reviewers often describe it as a "hard weather sailor," indicating its ability to handle challenging conditions with stability, though it may be "slow in light wind". Its fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder contributes to a solid feel and good tracking, aligning with Bandholm Yachts' design philosophy that emphasized stability, stiffness, and excellent righting capability. The vessel's robust construction and traditional lines contribute to a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it a stable and stylish small sea cruiser. These characteristics uphold the builder's motto of producing yachts that are "fast, safe and solid," providing confidence for family cruising and coastal adventures.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 24 feet, the Bandholm 24 offers a practical interior layout designed for comfortable cruising. The interior typically features four berths, a compact galley, and a marine toilet, providing essential amenities for overnight stays or extended weekends on the water. Notably, some Bandholm 24 models offer a maximum headroom of approximately 1.78 meters (around 5.84 feet), which is a commendable feature for a boat of its size, enhancing comfort below deck. While specific details on interior finishes and materials are not extensively documented, Bandholm Yachts were generally known for their quality craftsmanship, suggesting a well-appointed and durable interior for the era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bandholm 24 frequently praise its solid construction and dependable sailing characteristics. Many view it as a "classic family boat," appreciating its ability to deliver a safe and stable experience on the water. Its reputation as a "stable small stylish sea cruiser" highlights its enduring appeal for those seeking a traditional and reliable vessel. The boat's capability as a "hard weather sailor" is a recurring positive, instilling confidence in challenging conditions. While generally well-regarded, the common observation of it being "slow in light wind" is acknowledged, suggesting that its strengths lie more in its robustness and stability than in its light-air performance. The active community of owners further attests to the lasting legacy and cherished status of these classic Danish yachts.