Nutmeg 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Nutmeg 24 is rooted in earlier designs, specifically the wooden-hulled "Oriental Mercy" from 1955, and subsequently the "Shaw 24." William Shaw, a respected naval architect, refined these concepts into the fiberglass Nutmeg 24, which debuted in 1964. This timing aligned with the rapid growth of Tanzer Industries, founded by Johann Tanzer, who brought his passion for boat building to Canada. From the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s, Tanzer Industries became one of Canada's largest sailboat manufacturers, renowned for producing a range of durable, fiberglass vessels. The company's ethos, centered on robust construction and sailability, is clearly reflected in the Nutmeg 24, which was among Tanzer's early fiberglass offerings, leveraging the material's durability and ease of maintenance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a 24.5-foot masthead sloop with a keel/centerboard hull type, the Nutmeg 24 is designed for versatility. Its relatively narrow beam of 7.58 feet for its length and its centerboard configuration allow for a minimum draft of 2.75 feet when the board is up, making it suitable for exploring shallow anchorages or for trailering. When the centerboard is deployed, the maximum draft extends to 5.25 feet, providing improved upwind performance and stability. The Nutmeg 24's sail plan, featuring a masthead sloop rig, suggests a balanced and easily managed sail inventory for a boat of its size, making it suitable for recreational sailing. It is often described as best suited for day-sailing, offering an enjoyable experience for its crew. The solid fiberglass hull and lead ballast contribute to a sturdy feel on the water, providing a comfortable motion for a boat of this class.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its classification as a trailerable sailboat and a day-boat, the Nutmeg 24's interior accommodations are generally considered basic, designed to provide essential comfort for short trips rather than extensive offshore cruising. While specific detailed layouts are not widely documented, a vessel of this size and type typically features a simple cabin arrangement. This would likely include a V-berth forward, possibly convertible into a seating area, and perhaps two settees in the main cabin that could serve as additional berths. A basic galley area, potentially with a small sink and space for a portable stove, and limited storage are common features for boats in this category. Headroom, though not explicitly detailed in publicly available information, would be modest, as is typical for 24-foot sailboats of its era.