Islander 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the fiberglass Islander 24 traces back to Joseph H. McGlasson's successful 24-foot wooden sloop, the "Catalina Islander." Recognizing the transformative potential of fiberglass, McGlasson collaborated with Glas Laminates in 1961 to transition his design to this new material. 2, 4, 8, This collaboration was pivotal, with Glas Laminates, a company previously focused on manufacturing shower stalls and portable toilets, using one of McGlasson's wooden boats as a plug to create the fiberglass mold., 4 A distinctive feature of these early fiberglass Islander hulls, believed to stem from this transition, was the meticulous preservation of the seams from the original wooden planking in the fiberglass molds, creating a subtle visual signature.

The Islander 24 was in production from 1961 until 1967. While the initial trunk cabin model, characterized by its traditional superstructure, was the pioneering fiberglass version, it was ultimately overshadowed in popularity. The market showed a greater preference for a subsequent "raised deck Bahama version," which led to the discontinuation of the trunk cabin model after its relatively brief production period., 14] Joseph H. McGlasson, a prominent figure in early fiberglass sailboat development, aimed to create accessible and successful cruising boats, a philosophy evident in the Islander 24's foundational role.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 24 is characterized by a full keel, a design choice common for cruisers of its era. This full keel typically contributes to excellent directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway, making the boat track well on a course. While a full keel might result in a slightly larger turning radius compared to boats with fin keels, it generally provides a forgiving and stable platform for cruising, particularly in moderate conditions. As a masthead sloop, the Islander 24 carries its largest sail area aloft, offering efficient performance particularly on upwind courses. Anecdotal evidence from owners of the broader Islander 24 lineage often speaks to them being capable small boats, suited for coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Due to its compact 24-foot length and traditional trunk cabin design, the interior accommodations of the Islander 24 are modest, typical for a vessel of its size and vintage. Specific details on the maximum headroom are not widely available. While exact layouts can vary slightly between individual boats due to owner modifications over decades, a typical arrangement for a small cruising sailboat of this type would generally include a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, and potentially a small head compartment. The salon would likely consist of settees that could serve as berths. Interior finish would commonly feature a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, reflecting the prevalent building practices of the early 1960s. Storage would be practical but limited, primarily relying on under-berth and locker spaces. Ventilation would likely be provided by a forward hatch and possibly a few portlights. Reviews and discussions suggest that, like many older boats, the interior often requires maintenance and updates to restore its full potential.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Islander 24 models, including the later Bahama variants, generally hold a positive view of these boats, often referring to them as "great" foundational vessels for sailing. Many are cherished project boats, receiving considerable "TLC" (tender loving care) to maintain or restore them. Common discussions among owners frequently revolve around typical maintenance concerns for boats of this age, such as engine options for the outboard well and general upkeep of aged components. While specific issues like compression post problems have been noted on later Islander 24 designs by other naval architects, the general sentiment for the Joseph H. McGlasson models points to their inherent robustness and suitability as capable small cruisers, appealing to those seeking a classic and reliable sailboat.