Sovereign 24 Information, Review, Specs

The Sovereign 24 emerged from a period of innovation at Sovereign Yachts, a company founded by Dan Steeg in Port Richey, Florida, in 1978. The builder aimed to create practical and versatile fiberglass sailboats for the cruising market. Interestingly, the Sovereign 24 shares the same hull mold as the Sovereign 23 and Sovereign 7M, with distinctions primarily arising from variations in deck and interior configurations. This approach allowed Sovereign Yachts to streamline production while offering a range of options to buyers.

Arthur Edmunds is credited as the primary designer of the Sovereign 24, with the design first built in 1981. The Sovereign 24, also referred to in some contexts as the Sovereign Princess 24, was conceived as a cruiser. During its production run, which extended through various ownership changes of Sovereign Yachts until 1996, a version with a deeper keel (3.67 feet) was also available, offering an alternative to the standard 2.58-foot fin keel. The hull and deck were constructed from solid fiberglass, a common practice for durable construction in that era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sovereign 24 is equipped with a masthead sloop rig, providing a total sail area of approximately 241 square feet. While performance ratios are less directly applicable to smaller vessels like the 24-footer, the design's characteristics suggest a sailboat well-suited for its intended purpose. Owners generally describe the Sovereign 24 as a boat that handles well, particularly for day sailing and overnight trips. Its generous sail plan is noted for delivering good light-air performance, making it an ideal choice for recreational cruising and club racing.

The Sovereign 24 features a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, a common configuration for sailboats of its type. Anecdotal evidence from owners suggests it offers good room below deck and handles capably in various water conditions. While the hull is described as round and having less initial stability than some designs, its overall sailing performance is considered good for a boat of its size, designed for coastal and lake cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact 24-foot length overall, the Sovereign 24 is designed to offer a surprising amount of space below deck, making it suitable for weekend cruising and overnight stays. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main cabin with a salon area, and often a galley and a marine head. Owners frequently praise the ample storage available, which is a significant advantage for a boat of this size. The design prioritizes practicality and comfort for its class, reflecting its role as an accessible cruiser. Information regarding the general finish quality and specific materials used in the interior, such as wood trim versus fiberglass, would typically require detailed owner reviews or older sales brochures.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Sovereign 24 frequently highlight its solid construction and suitability for coastal cruising and lake sailing. The boat is often considered an excellent choice for new sailors due to its manageable size and forgiving characteristics. Common strengths reported by the ownership community include its spacious interior for a 24-foot vessel, offering good room and ample storage below deck. The masthead rig and fin keel contribute to its respectable sailing performance, especially in lighter winds.

While specific common weaknesses or recurring maintenance issues are not widely detailed in public forums, the robust and enthusiastic owner community for Sovereign sailboats serves as a valuable resource for information and support. This dedicated network helps maintain the existing fleet and ensures the continued enjoyment of these enduring American-built cruisers.