Columbia 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Columbia 24 begins in 1961 with Joseph McGlasson, an American boat builder and designer renowned for his contributions to early fiberglass production sailboats. McGlasson sought to create a fiberglass iteration of his popular wooden Catalina Islander 24. Glas Laminates, founded by Richard "Dick" Valdes and Maurice V. Thrienen, took on the task of manufacturing this new design. While drawing directly from McGlasson's wooden Islander 24 hull, Glas Laminates modified the design for the Columbia 24, notably adding more freeboard and incorporating a new deck and coach roof that lacked the faux planking imprint characteristic of McGlasson's original Islander line. This design decision signaled a move towards a smoother, more modern fiberglass aesthetic.

Produced from 1962 to 1964, the Columbia 24 was instrumental in establishing Columbia Yachts as a major player in the fiberglass market. The immediate and substantial demand for these early fiberglass boats highlighted the material's immense potential for durable, efficient mass production. The Columbia 24 also served as the foundational hull for other models in the series, including the Columbia 24 Contender and the Columbia 24 Challenger, the latter featuring a raised deck configuration. This early period defined Columbia's ethos of delivering well-designed, robust fiberglass sailboats, a commitment further solidified by their later collaborations with esteemed naval architects like Sparkman & Stephens.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 24.33 feet and a waterline length of 18.0 feet, the Columbia 24 was designed to offer competent performance for its size. Weighing approximately 4,050 pounds with 1,800 pounds of ballast in a fin keel, she possesses a solid feel on the water. The fin keel design, distinct from full keels, typically allows for better maneuverability and pointing ability upwind. While specific anecdotal reviews for the Columbia 24 are limited, owners of similar Columbia models from this era frequently praise their solid construction and comfortable motion. One owner, when comparing their Columbia 24 Challenger to a Catalina, noted an absence of "rounding up problems," suggesting a well-balanced helm. This indicates that the Columbia 24, as a masthead sloop, is generally well-behaved and manageable in various conditions, making it suitable for coastal cruising and day sailing. Its hull speed is estimated at 5.69 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Information on the specific interior layout of the Columbia 24 is less widely documented than its overall history, with detailed diagrams or photos being somewhat difficult to find. However, for a boat of its length, the Columbia 24 typically offers a practical layout designed for weekend cruising or short trips. Based on available owner descriptions and common practices for boats of this size and vintage, the interior likely includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. The main cabin would feature basic amenities, potentially including a small galley area with a sink and space for a portable stove, and a compact dinette that may convert into additional sleeping berths. Many examples have been updated by owners, including additions of new V-births, bunks, and heads. An enclosed head compartment is generally present, offering privacy. While maximum headroom details are not consistently available, it would be modest, typical for a 24-foot monohull of the era. The construction materials would largely consist of fiberglass for the hull and deck, with wood trim and accents providing warmth and finish, consistent with Columbia's focus on comfortable interiors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Columbia 24s and other Columbia models from the era often commend the marque for its robust, solid construction, a hallmark of early fiberglass boatbuilding by Glas Laminates/Columbia Yachts. These vessels are frequently described as possessing a durable build that has stood the test of time, making them appealing to those seeking an affordable and reliable classic. Common maintenance considerations, typical of boats of this age, include addressing issues like original deck fittings developing leaks or replacing older through-hulls and cockpit drains, which owners have proactively undertaken in restorations. While not immune to the wear and tear of decades, the fundamental soundness of the Columbia 24's hull and design is a recurring positive sentiment among its owners, solidifying its place as a cherished small cruiser in the sailing community.