Ultimate 24 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Ultimate 24 dates back to 1995 when Ultimate Sailboats, an American builder founded by Jeff Canepa, commenced its production. Ultimate Sailboats had previously established its reputation through involvement with the highly successful Ultimate 20, a design that emphasized speed and competitive sailing. This philosophy carried over to the Ultimate 24, with Jim Antrim at the helm of its design. Antrim's vision for the Ultimate 24 was to create a "dry, comfortable sportboat" that could be raced effectively with a crew of just three, while also offering the practicalities of trailerability and ramp launching. The collaboration underscored a commitment to modern, efficient hull forms suitable for competitive sailing, a hallmark of Ultimate Sailboats' ethos.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With its design brief prioritizing performance, the Ultimate 24 lives up to its "sportboat" designation. Boasting a lightweight hull construction of solid fiberglass and a fractional sloop rig, the vessel is engineered for spirited sailing. The Ultimate 24's design ensures a "sporty little packet" feel on the water, with performance inherent in its lines. Its nimble nature and responsive handling make it an engaging boat for experienced sailors, while its design for a minimal crew of three speaks to its accessibility for competitive racing. The inclusion of a lifting keel further enhances its versatility, allowing for easy trailering and access to shallow waters, an ideal feature for sailors who wish to dry store or frequently transport their boats. The boat is designed to achieve a hull speed of approximately 6.17 knots, indicative of its swift performance potential.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its primary focus on performance, the Ultimate 24 also offers a surprising degree of comfort and utility below deck, considering its compact size. The interior is designed to be functional for both day sailing and brief overnight stays. It features four interior bunks, providing sleeping arrangements for a small crew. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, complemented by two relatively long quarter berths aft, creating a "cozy interior". Countertops and lockers are integrated, along with designated space for a lavatory, enhancing its suitability for short excursions. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the Ultimate 24 can serve as a capable platform for both performance racing and enjoyable weekend cruising.