Weekender 24 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Weekender 24 traces back to Sparkman & Stephens design number 1701-C1. It emerged as a cruising adaptation of the earlier Rainbow 24, a design originally created in 1961 for the Annapolis Sailing School. The Rainbow 24 gained a reputation as a "super safe and fast learning boat," known for its reliability and safety. The Weekender 24 specifically evolved to replace the Rainbow 24's cuddy cabin with a full cabin, aiming to provide enhanced amenities for cruising rather than just daysailing.

Tidewater Boats, the builder, was situated in Annapolis, Maryland, a region with a rich maritime tradition. The company's operational presence is noted around the mid-1960s, with records indicating its activities concluding by 1977. This suggests the Weekender 24's production likely followed a similar timeline, with construction beginning in 1965 and continuing until the builder ceased operations. Beyond the Weekender and Rainbow, another notable variant, the "Knockabout," was produced for the U.S. Naval Academy, featuring an open cockpit instead of a cabin.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Though compact with a length overall of just over 24 feet, the Weekender 24, benefiting from its Sparkman & Stephens lineage, is designed for enjoyable sailing. Its fin keel and spade rudder contribute to responsive handling, making it a lively yet manageable boat on the water. The parent design, the Rainbow 24, is often described as providing a "sporty ride" and being a "small, reliable and a safe boat to enjoy," attributes that would naturally extend to its cruising sister. With a maximum draft of 3.5 feet, which could extend to about 3.81 feet depending on the load, the boat is capable of navigating many coastal and bay waters. Its design emphasizes safety and predictability, making it a suitable choice for both new and experienced sailors looking for a nimble vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

The primary distinction of the Weekender 24 lies in its "full cabin," a significant upgrade from the cuddy found on the Rainbow 24, designed to facilitate more comfortable overnight stays. While specific interior diagrams or detailed descriptions are scarce in available records, its designation as a "cruiser" suggests a layout typical for a compact sailboat of its era. This would likely include a forward V-berth for sleeping, a small salon area, and potentially a basic galley setup for meal preparation, alongside a simple head. Given its beam of 6.25 feet, the interior spaces would be cozy and functional, prioritizing efficient use of limited volume to maximize cruising comfort.