Vivacity 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Vivacity 24 emerged from Russell Marine Ltd.'s successful lineage of small cruisers, commencing production in 1969. The builder, under the leadership of Des Pollard, had transitioned early to Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, a move that defined their efficient and consistent production ethos. Russell Marine was renowned for producing practical, robust, and affordable cruising yachts, a philosophy clearly embodied by the Vivacity 24. This model followed the earlier Vivacity 20 and 21/650, demonstrating a continued commitment to accessible yachting.

The design of the Vivacity 24 is credited to Alan Hill, a naval architect known for other popular cruisers such as the Trident 24 and Tomahawk 25. Hill conceived the Vivacity 24 as a balanced cruiser, aiming to strike a harmony between performance and comfort through a generous sail plan. In line with Russell Marine's versatile offerings, the Vivacity 24 was available with both a fin keel, drawing 3.67 feet, and a twin bilge keel version, which reduced the draft to 2.5 feet. This twin keel option was particularly popular in the UK and Europe, allowing boats to stand upright on drying moorings and facilitating exploration of shallow waters. Some production models also featured a cut-out transom designed for outboard engines.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Vivacity 24 is designed for pleasant, secure sailing, particularly suited for coastal cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 13.82, she is moderately powered, suggesting a boat that performs adequately in light airs but truly comes into her own with a bit more breeze, without being overly demanding to sail.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.417 (41.7%) indicates a relatively stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a good amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio contributes significantly to her reputation for good seakeeping and safety. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 210.4, places her firmly in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. This suggests a boat that offers a good balance between speed and comfort, capable of covering distances steadily without being sluggish, yet robust enough to handle varied conditions. The Vivacity 24 boasts a theoretical hull speed of 6.1 knots, a respectable figure for a boat of her length. Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises her predictable handling and balance, making her a confidence-inspiring choice for new and experienced sailors alike.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact length overall of 23.5 feet and a beam of 8 feet, the Vivacity 24 is noted for offering remarkably good and well-laid-out accommodations for her size. The interior is typically configured to maximize space and functionality, often equipped with up to five berths.

While specific details vary by individual boat and owner modifications, common layouts typically include a V-berth forward, a main salon area with settees that can convert to berths, and often a quarter berth aft. Headroom, though not explicitly stated for all models, is generally considered adequate for a boat of this size from the era, with early Vivacity models having limited but functional standing room under the main hatch. A galley area, often simple but functional, usually incorporates a sink and space for a stove. Storage is typically found beneath berths and in various lockers, providing sufficient capacity for weekend trips or extended coastal cruising. The hull is constructed from solid fiberglass. The Vivacity 24 carries a water capacity of 20 gallons, suitable for her intended use.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Vivacity 24 consistently laud its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics, often describing their boats as robust and dependable. The ability to choose between fin and bilge keel options is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, with bilge keel owners appreciating the flexibility for drying moorings and exploring shallow anchorages. Many owners praise the Vivacity 24 for its comfortable motion in a seaway and its stable sailing performance, making it an ideal platform for coastal family cruising.

However, like any older vessel, common maintenance points are often discussed within the owner community. While the hull is known for its durability, original deck fittings may occasionally require re-bedding to prevent leaks over time. Some owners discuss engine conversions, indicating that the original auxiliary engines, if still present, may be past their prime, leading to upgrades to modern outboards. For bilge keel versions, owners note the importance of inspecting the keel bottoms, as repeated grounding on hard surfaces can lead to wear. Despite these considerations, the collective sentiment among owners is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the Vivacity 24's enduring appeal as a practical, safe, and enjoyable small cruiser.