Cascade 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Cascade 24 aligns with a period of expansion and model diversification for Yacht Constructors, Inc. Starting in 1977, the Cascade 24 joined a growing fleet of fiberglass sailboats that leveraged the company's distinctive hand lay-up method of construction. This meticulous process, proudly detailed in original company brochures, involved laying each piece of woven roving and cloth and wetting it out with resin, then hand-squeegeeing excess resin to ensure a low resin content of approximately 50%. This approach contrasted sharply with methods yielding higher resin content, which Cascade believed compromised the strength and durability of the laminate. The enduring quality of Cascade hulls, including the 24, has solidified the builder's reputation for crafting seaworthy vessels capable of extensive voyages.

Robert A. Smith, the designer of the Cascade 24, also lent his expertise to other iconic Cascade models, such as the 29, 36, and 42. While specific design philosophies for the 24-foot model are not extensively documented, the builder's overall ethos focused on creating comfortable family cruisers and capable bluewater yachts. The Cascade 24 features a long keel, a design choice characteristic of the era, contributing to good directional stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a compact cruiser, the Cascade 24, designed by Robert A. Smith, is noted for its "speedy hull design" in comparison to many contemporary sailboats of similar size. Its relatively narrow beam, described as "slimmer than 79% of all other designs," contributes to this performance characteristic. With a total calculated sail area of 243 square feet and a displacement of 4,430 pounds, the Cascade 24 is expected to be an enjoyable boat to sail in a variety of conditions, albeit with the inherent limitations of its length. The long keel design enhances its ability to track straight, offering a stable and predictable motion, particularly valuable in a smaller vessel. Its maximum draft of 2.58 feet allows for access to shallower anchorages and marinas, adding to its versatility as a coastal cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout and accommodations of the Cascade 24 is limited in available public records. Given its 24-foot length, the interior would likely offer basic provisions for overnighting or short cruising trips. Typical arrangements for sailboats of this size from the late 1970s often included a V-berth forward, a small dinette that converts into a berth, a compact galley area with a sink and perhaps a single-burner stove, and rudimentary storage. A marine head would usually be situated either under the V-berth or in a dedicated small compartment. The overarching design philosophy of Cascade Yachts emphasized robust construction, which would extend to the interior fit and finish, prioritizing functionality and durability over luxurious appointments.

Owner's Perspectives

Specific owner reviews and detailed discussions pertaining solely to the Cascade 24 are scarce in public forums and databases. However, the broader Cascade Yacht community, encompassing models like the 29, 36, and 42, consistently praises the brand's solid fiberglass construction and the seaworthiness of its vessels. Owners of Cascade boats frequently highlight their durability, often noting that these boats are well-suited for extended cruising and have a reputation for standing up to challenging conditions. While direct feedback for the 24-foot model is not widely available, it can be inferred that it shares the robust build quality and practical design characteristics valued by the larger Cascade owner base.