S&S 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The S&S 24's production run spanned from 1968 to 1973, with approximately 20 units built. It holds a significant place in yachting history as Sparkman & Stephens design #1497-C, a keel-equipped variant of the popular Dolphin 24. The Dolphin 24 (S&S design #1497) was originally conceived in 1959-1960 with the Midget Ocean Racing Club (MORC) in mind, reflecting a design philosophy focused on combining competitive performance with practical cruising capabilities. Olin Stephens, a key figure in the firm, often emphasized a principle of continuous, subtle refinement to enhance proven designs.

The builder, Sea Nymph, was a pioneering force in fiberglass construction in New Zealand, having introduced its first GRP model in 1962. During the era of the S&S 24's production, Sea Nymph had established a reputation for producing practical, robust, and popular boats with sturdy construction and thoughtful layouts. The company's association with esteemed naval architects like Sparkman & Stephens underscored their commitment to well-engineered vessels. Following the S&S 24, a modified version, the Falcon 24, was also built in New Zealand by Sea Nymph, representing a modernized evolution of the original S&S 24 design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 24 feet and a waterline length of 19 feet, the S&S 24 exhibits characteristics of a capable small cruiser. Its sail area to displacement ratio of 19.09 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, making it responsive and enjoyable to sail. A ballast to displacement ratio of 36.21% indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heeling. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of 302.00 places it in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, hinting at a comfortable motion in a seaway. Anecdotal evidence suggests the S&S 24 possesses a "speedy hull design" and is considered a "good sea-boat for 24ft," affirming its solid handling characteristics.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications are scarce, a 24-foot sailboat of the S&S 24's vintage would typically offer a functional, albeit compact, interior designed primarily for weekend cruising. Accommodations would likely include a V-berth forward, a small salon area with settees that could serve as additional berths, and a basic galley for simple meal preparation. A marine head would also be standard. Given Sea Nymph's reputation for practical and sturdy construction, the interior would have prioritized durability and utility, likely featuring robust fiberglass finishes complemented by wood trim characteristic of the era. Storage would be modest, and ventilation would rely on deck hatches and portlights.