Dolphin 24 (S&S) Information, Review, Specs

The Dolphin 24's narrative begins in April 1959, when Sparkman & Stephens finalized design #1497. The design brief for the Dolphin was to create a boat that excelled on the water, blending performance with seaworthiness suitable for coastal and offshore adventures. While William Shaw, an employee of Sparkman & Stephens at the time, is credited as the designer, the manufacturing was a more distributed effort. O'Day Corporation, under George O'Day, contracted out the construction of complete Dolphin 24s to various firms. Notable builders included Lunn Laminates (a precursor to Allied Yachts), Marscot Plastics (an O'Day subsidiary), and a few units, including one reportedly built as a wedding present, were constructed by J.J. Taylor and Sons Ltd. in Canada.

J.J. Taylor and Sons Ltd., a company with a long history of transitioning from traditional wooden boatbuilding to modern fiberglass construction, demonstrated their versatile manufacturing ethos by producing these Sparkman & Stephens designs. During its production run, the Dolphin 24 saw some variations; notably, a number of boats were built with a wooden deck and coachroof after a fire destroyed the fiberglass deck molds. Later, Yankee Yachts in California also built another iteration of the design, known as the Yankee Dolphin 24, which featured an updated interior plan.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 24 feet (24.16 ft) and a waterline length of 19.0 feet, the Dolphin 24 exhibits characteristics of a well-proportioned cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.16 suggests a boat that is capable of performing well in lighter air conditions. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 39% indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze without excessive heel. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 277 positions it as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, offering a comfortable motion rather than outright speed. The theoretical hull speed is calculated at 5.84 knots.

Owners have noted that the Dolphin 24 sails upright when reefed, effectively maintaining speed without becoming uncomfortable. While some owners suggest that without larger sails, the light-air performance may not be optimal, the boat is generally regarded as sailing well in flat water when not pushed to its hull speed limits. The boat's design as a "pocket cruiser" underscores its balanced characteristics for comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Dolphin 24 offers a practical and functional interior layout. Although the maximum headroom is not explicitly listed in all specifications, original Sparkman & Stephens drawings (design #1497) indicate approximately 57 inches (4.75 feet) of headroom. The typical interior arrangement features a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A convertible dinette table in the main salon can be dropped down to create an additional double berth, maximizing sleeping capacity.

While specific details on finish quality and materials vary, especially given the multiple builders, reviews suggest a practical rather than luxurious finish. Owners often engage in restoring and updating the interior, implying a functional, often wood-trimmed, layout that provides basic cruising comforts. Storage is typically adequate for a boat of this size, and ventilation would likely rely on deck hatches and companionway opening. The Yankee Dolphin version notably offered an updated interior plan, potentially providing improvements or variations on the original layout.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Dolphin 24 frequently praise its classic Sparkman & Stephens design and solid construction, which has contributed to its enduring popularity and a strong owner community. Many appreciate the "less-is-more" philosophy it embodies, offering a straightforward and capable sailing experience.

However, like many older vessels, the Dolphin 24 is not without its common maintenance considerations. A recurring issue noted by owners is the potential for water intrusion and deterioration of the deck on older boats, making thorough inspection crucial for prospective buyers. Some configurations, particularly those with an outboard motor well, have presented challenges such as the propeller being located behind the rudder, limiting maneuverability and making turning the motor difficult. While generally a good performer, owners suggest that optimal light-air performance often requires larger sail plans, as the boat may feel sluggish without them.