Achilles 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Achilles 24 dates back to 1968, marking Butler Mouldings' official transition into dedicated yacht building from its earlier work with GRP dinghies and motorcycle parts. The design originated from Oliver Lee's Ajax 23, an open cockpit day boat, with the explicit goal of creating a cruising variant. Chris Butler took this foundation, adding a coachroof and other modifications to develop the Achilles 24, effectively transforming the "Ajax with a lid on" into a capable small cruiser. This collaborative design philosophy, blending a racing pedigree with cruising practicality, became a hallmark of the Achilles range. Butler Mouldings, under Chris Butler's leadership, quickly gained a reputation for robust build quality and inherent safety in its GRP yachts, a manufacturing ethos that defined the era and the brand. The Achilles 24 was offered in two primary keel configurations: a fin keel with a maximum draft of 3.75 feet and a triple keel version with a draft of 3.51 feet, offering versatility for different sailing grounds and drying out capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its relatively small size with a length overall of just under 24 feet and a waterline length of 19.5 feet, the Achilles 24 quickly earned a reputation for being a sprightly and seaworthy vessel. Owners frequently praise its lively handling characteristics, often comparing its responsiveness to that of a dinghy, while still instilling a sense of security even in challenging conditions. Its design as a cruiser-racer enabled it to achieve moderate to good performance, making it suitable for both competitive club racing and comfortable cruising. Many Achilles 24s have undertaken significant voyages, with some even crossing the Atlantic and venturing as far as New Zealand, underscoring their robust construction and offshore capabilities. The boat is known to sail very well, offering an enjoyable experience on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Achilles 24, while compact, is designed for practicality and efficiency, offering comfortable accommodation for its size. The cabin is often described as open-plan and cozy, typical for a yacht of its era and dimensions. Grounded searches suggest a layout that generally includes a V-berth forward, a small galley area, and a saloon space, potentially with quarter berths aft, though specific configurations can vary. While exact headroom figures are not consistently available, the design prioritizes maximizing usable space within its modest beam of 7.09 feet. Construction generally involves a fiberglass solid hull and deck, often with balsa core in the deck for stiffness and insulation. The finish quality, while functional, reflects the builder's commitment to robust construction over luxurious embellishments, focusing on durability for extended use. Owners note that the design, including features like an outboard well, can impact interior stowage, necessitating careful organization.

Owner's Perspectives

The Achilles 24 enjoys a strong and dedicated following, with owners consistently highlighting its excellent sailing performance, seaworthiness, and solid construction as key strengths. Many appreciate its ability to handle like a much larger vessel, providing a secure and enjoyable experience even in demanding conditions. Its reputation for being a "tough offshore cruiser" is well-earned, with numerous accounts of successful long-distance voyages. Owners frequently comment on the boat's balance and responsiveness, contributing to a positive sailing experience.

However, like any vessel of its age, the Achilles 24 can present common maintenance considerations. A recurring theme in owner discussions involves the potential for issues with the original deck fittings leading to leaks, often requiring re-bedding. Furthermore, the choice of an outboard engine in a well, while common for boats of this size, can impact stowage and occasionally present handling challenges, though removing the engine from the well and plugging the opening is noted to significantly improve speed and handling when sailing. Despite these minor issues, the overall consensus among owners is overwhelmingly positive, fostering a vibrant community through associations like the Achilles Yacht Owners Association.