Bristol 24 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Bristol 24 traces back to Paul Coble's design, initially produced as the Sailstar Corsair 24, with its introduction dating as early as 1964 or 1966. When Clinton Pearson's Bristol Yachts acquired Sailstar's assets, they embraced this design, incorporating it into their growing fleet. Bristol Yachts, known for pioneering fiberglass boat building in the United States, applied its reputation for "overbuilt" and durable construction to the Bristol 24. The company's commitment to solid, seaworthy vessels meant the Bristol 24 benefited from a hand-laid fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring a robust structure. While specific design philosophies from Coble are less documented, the boat's long keel and heavy displacement suggest a design intent focused on stability and tracking ability rather than outright speed. The production run under Bristol Yachts specifically occurred between 1969 and 1972, though the broader design lineage continued beyond these years, 7, 9]. Some variations in interior layout were offered, including standard and dinette arrangements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 24 is widely regarded as a solid performer for its size, offering a secure and stable ride. Despite being described by some as a "very heavy sailboat which is slightly under powered," owners generally praise its handling characteristics, noting that it "sailed pretty well and felt VERY safe". Its full, long keel contributes significantly to its directional stability, making it track well in a seaway and providing a comfortable motion, albeit at the expense of nimble maneuverability. This inherent stability makes the Bristol 24 a suitable choice for those seeking a confidence-inspiring small cruiser capable of handling various conditions. The masthead sloop rig provides a reported sail area of 296 square feet, offering a balanced sail plan for its displacement.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 24.58 feet, the Bristol 24 was designed to offer practical accommodations for its crew. Owners can expect a functional interior, often featuring satin-finished mahogany bulkheads and trim, complemented by a fiberglass headliner. The layout typically includes sleeping for four or five people, depending on whether the boat features a standard or dinette arrangement. While specific headroom can vary, some models offer approximately 6 feet, which is notable for a boat of this size. Common interior features typically include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, and a small galley area. The head compartment is usually enclosed, providing privacy. Many Bristol 24s were equipped with an outboard engine in a dedicated well, though an inboard diesel engine was also available as an option, influencing the interior's aft layout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bristol 24 consistently laud its "overbuilt" and solid construction, describing it as a "well built boat" that instills a sense of security on the water. The vessel's robust fiberglass layup contributes to its durability and longevity, making it a popular choice for those seeking an older sailboat with "good 'bones' for refurbishment". However, like many boats of its vintage, the Bristol 24 can present some common maintenance considerations. A frequently noted area of concern is the chainplate area, particularly where it connects to the bulkhead on the interior. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the keel, specifically regarding the ballast (often a mix of concrete and iron) and potential water intrusion, though this is not universally experienced by all owners. Despite these potential points of attention, the collective sentiment among owners highlights the Bristol 24 as a dependable, safe, and comfortable small cruiser that offers significant value for its enduring build quality.