Laguna 24 S Information, Review, Specs

Embodying the builder's philosophy of solid, albeit simple, construction and user-friendly designs, the Laguna 24 S offered an entry point into boat ownership for many, reflecting the enduring utility that defined Laguna Yachts' offerings during its operational years.

History and Design

The Laguna 24 S was introduced by Laguna Yachts in 1980, part of a production run that continued until 1987. This period saw Laguna Yachts, founded by Bill Downing, focus on delivering functional and accessible fiberglass sailboats. The company's design philosophy, often shaped by W. Shad Turner's expertise, centered on creating comfortable family cruisers and daysailers known for their stability and ease of handling.

As a cruiser, the Laguna 24 S followed this ethos, providing a compact yet capable platform for recreational sailing. Notably, the Laguna 24 S shares its fundamental design with the Balboa 24, with the Balboa 24 recognized as a subsequent development of the 24 S. While the Laguna 24 S features a fractional sloop rig, a notable variation, the Laguna 24 ST, was later introduced, distinguished primarily by its taller masthead rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length, the Laguna 24 S is described as a light sailboat offering spirited performance, a characteristic often attributed to its generous sail plan. Designed with cruising in mind, it is considered stable and stiff, providing a confident feel on the water. Its fractional sloop rig generally contributes to easier sail handling and good upwind performance, making it appealing for a broad range of sailors. The boat is well-suited for day-sailing, though its design as a cruiser also makes it appropriate for short-term trips.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 24-foot trailerable cruiser, the Laguna 24 S offers accommodations designed for practicality and efficiency. While specific interior diagrams are not widely available, boats of this size and type typically feature a basic interior arrangement, suitable for weekend cruising. Owners considering the Laguna 24 S often look for a vessel capable of spending a few nights aboard, implying the presence of a V-berth forward, a small convertible salon area, and potentially a basic galley and head compartment. The general construction quality from Laguna Yachts was solid, reflecting their focus on functional vessels rather than luxury.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Laguna 24 S generally appreciate its enduring design and utility as an accessible small cruiser. The boat is often sought after by those looking for an affordable entry into boat ownership or a reliable vessel for weekend adventures and lake sailing. While detailed anecdotal reviews specifically for the Laguna 24 S regarding common strengths and weaknesses are not extensively documented, the builder's reputation suggests a vessel built with solid fiberglass construction and simple systems that contribute to its longevity. However, it is noted that while the boat offers good initial stability, its righting capability if capsized is considered low, a characteristic common to many lighter displacement designs. Dedicated owner communities for Laguna models often serve as valuable resources for maintenance and shared experiences, highlighting the lasting appeal of these classic boats.