Cornish Crabber 24 Mk 5 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Cornish Crabber 24 stretches back to 1974, when naval architect Roger Dongray first conceived the original 22-foot (6.7m) gaff-rigged cutter, initially for his personal use in plywood. This pioneering design laid the foundation for Cornish Crabbers, a company dedicated to producing "modern classics" that evoke the spirit of traditional West Country working boats. The original Cornish Crabber 24 was introduced in 1975, proving to be a highly successful model that underwent several revisions over the years.

The Cornish Crabber 24 Mk 5, which commenced production in 2017, marks a significant evolution in this storied line. While previous iterations, such as the Mk 3 in the early 90s, explored deeper fixed drafts and long keel characteristics, the Mk 5 represents an entirely new design by Andrew Wolstenholme. The design philosophy behind the Mk 5 was to integrate modern technology, such as a carbon mast, with traditional elements like a timber gaff and boom, maintaining the classic Crabber identity. This approach aimed to deliver improved sailing performance without transforming it into a conventional racing boat, adhering to Cornish Crabbers' commitment to robust build quality and a unique, engaging sailing experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cornish Crabber 24 Mk 5, with its gaff-head cutter rig, is characterized by a design that prioritizes both spirited performance and stable handling. Its reported sail area of 351.12 sqft combined with a displacement of 4,960 lbs results in a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio of approximately 19.55. This figure suggests a boat that is quite capable in lighter winds, exhibiting good responsiveness and the ability to maintain momentum when the breeze is gentle.

The Displacement to Length Ratio, calculated at around 212.27 (based on a waterline length of 21.85 ft), places the Crabber 24 Mk 5 in the moderate displacement category. This indicates a vessel that is neither an ultralight flyer nor an overly heavy cruiser, striking a balance that generally translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway and a solid, reassuring feel under sail. While specific ballast figures are not provided, the hull is constructed from solid fiberglass, and the ballast is iron, contributing to its stability. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Mk 5 offers excellent sailing performance and retains the classic Crabber characteristics of being seaworthy and forgiving. With a hull speed of 6.26 knots, she is designed for enjoyable cruising rather than outright speed, offering a balanced and predictable helm.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact length overall of 24.02 ft, the Cornish Crabber 24 Mk 5 is designed to offer a surprisingly accommodating interior, making it suitable for coastal cruising and weekend adventures