Hughes 24 Information, Review, Specs

With a length overall of 24.5 feet, the Hughes 24 was conceived to offer accessible sailing to enthusiasts seeking a boat capable of both coastal exploration and competitive day sailing. Her design and construction reflect Hughes Boat Works' commitment during the mid-1960s to expanding into larger fiberglass sailboats, setting the stage for a diverse range of models to follow.

History and Design

The story of the Hughes 24 begins in 1966, marking its initial production by Hughes Boat Works. The builder, having relocated to Scarborough, Ontario, in 1965, embarked on producing larger fiberglass sailboats, including the Hughes 24, the Hughes 27, and the Sparkman & Stephens-designed Hughes 38. The Hughes 24, in particular, utilized tooling acquired from Tanzer Industries Ltd., leading to a strong connection with the Nutmeg 24, another William Shaw design that predates the Hughes 24 by two years. William Shaw, known for his work with Pearson Yachts, designed the Nutmeg 24 as a cruiser, suggesting a similar intent for the Hughes 24.

While precise details on William Shaw's specific design philosophy for the Hughes 24 are scarce, the shared lineage with the Nutmeg 24 indicates a focus on creating a capable, if compact, cruising vessel. The original molds were later modified to create the Hughes 25, a model that subsequently achieved greater popularity than its predecessor.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its length overall of 24.5 feet, traditional performance ratios for sail area to displacement or ballast to displacement are not typically applied to the Hughes 24 as they are more relevant for larger yachts. However, the boat's design characteristics provide insight into its on-the-water behavior. The Hughes 24 is rigged as a masthead sloop, contributing to a total reported sail area of approximately 268 square feet.

Equipped with a keel/centerboard hull type, the Hughes 24 offers flexibility in draft, ranging from a minimum of 2.75 feet to a maximum of 5.25 feet. This centerboard design allows the boat to access shallower waters while providing enhanced upwind performance when deployed. Described as a moderate-weight sailboat, the Hughes 24 is considered a reasonably good performer. It is noted for being stable and stiff, possessing good righting capabilities, making it well-suited for day-sailing activities. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 5.76 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed information regarding the interior layout and specific accommodations of the Hughes 24 is not extensively documented in available resources. However, based on its size and era, one can infer a typical arrangement for a 24-foot trailerable cruiser. These boats usually feature a forward V-berth for sleeping, a small main salon area with settees that may convert into additional berths, and a basic galley counter. A compact head compartment, often without standing headroom, would also be expected. The maximum headroom within the cabin is not specified in the available data. Generally, boats from this period by Hughes Boat Works were constructed with solid fiberglass hulls and decks, and the interiors would likely have featured a blend of fiberglass liners with some wood trim, offering a functional rather than luxurious finish. Storage would typically be found under berths and in small lockers.

Owner's Perspectives

While specific owner reviews for the Hughes 24 are limited, the broader reputation of Hughes Boat Works provides some insight into the potential experience of owning one of their vessels. Hughes sailboats, in general, are often praised by owners for their solid construction and affordability. Owners looking for a Hughes 24 today would likely appreciate its robust fiberglass construction, which has allowed many examples to endure decades of use. The design's classification as "best suited as a day-boat" suggests it offers a straightforward and enjoyable sailing experience for its size. As with many older fiberglass boats, potential owners should anticipate common maintenance requirements typical of vessels from the 1960s, such as addressing original fittings, electrical systems, or rigging that may require updating. The enduring presence of Hughes boats in sailing communities speaks to their fundamental quality and the dedication of their owners.