Bristol 24 Corsair (Sailstar) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Bristol 24 Corsair is intertwined with the foundational years of fiberglass boat manufacturing. The vessel first emerged in 1964 as the Sailstar Corsair, designed by Paul Coble who was tasked with creating a 24-foot plan. That same year, Clinton "Clint" Pearson, fresh from co-founding Pearson Yachts and recognizing the transformative potential of fiberglass, purchased the struggling Sailstar Yachts. This acquisition marked the beginning of Bristol Yachts, and the Corsair design was integrated into their new fleet.

During its nearly two-decade production run, the Bristol 24 Corsair saw over 750 units built, a testament to its popularity. While generally celebrated for its robust construction, the manufacturing process, materials, and standards could vary across its production span. Some models featured balsa-cored decks, while others had solid fiberglass construction. Similarly, the ballast material evolved, with some boats utilizing lead (typically referred to as the Bristol 24) and others employing iron set in concrete (often associated with the Corsair designation). Notably, the intended ballast weight consistently remained 3000 lbs throughout its production. The design also offered two alternate interior arrangements: a standard layout and a dinette version.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 24 Corsair, with its traditional long keel and masthead sloop rig, is widely regarded as a seaworthy and stable vessel, particularly for its size. Owners have reported feeling secure even when offshore in challenging conditions, specifically in 3-6 foot seas with 15-20 knot winds. With a hull speed of approximately 5.7 knots, the boat is generally characterized as a solid, if not exceptionally fast, performer. Its long keel design contributes to excellent directional stability, allowing the boat to track well, though this characteristic typically means it is less nimble than boats with fin keels.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Bristol 24 Corsair was designed to offer practical accommodations for cruising. Depending on the specific interior layout, the boat can typically sleep four or five people. Grounded search indicates that the interior often features satin-finished mahogany bulkheads and trim, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by a fiberglass headliner. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior arrangements, which included both standard and dinette options, were designed to maximize usable space. Basic cruising amenities, such as a 15-gallon water capacity, were standard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Bristol 24 Corsair for its solid and "overbuilt" construction, describing it as a sturdy and safe pocket cruiser. Many appreciate its overall reliability and its ability to handle various sea conditions with a sense of security, making it a good choice for those seeking a dependable smaller cruiser.

However, common maintenance considerations and potential weaknesses have been noted by owners. A recurring issue often cited is the design of the chainplates, which pass through the deck and attach to the mahogany bulkheads in the forward cabin. These areas are prone to developing leaks, often requiring diligent re-bedding to prevent water intrusion and potential structural issues with the bulkheads. Additionally, some owners have expressed a desire for more stowage space, a common challenge in many smaller sailboats. While known for its seaworthiness, the Bristol 24 Corsair is generally considered a slower boat, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing performance over stability and comfort. The variations in construction materials, such as balsa-cored versus solid fiberglass decks and different ballast types, are also points that potential owners often investigate.