Victoire 24 Information, Review, Specs

The Victoire 24 emerged from the design office of Dick Koopmans Jr., following in the footsteps of his father, Dick Koopmans Sr., who founded Victoire Yachts in 1961. The builder established a reputation for crafting "racer/cruiser" models that balanced performance with comfortable cruising capabilities, emphasizing timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. The Victoire 24, produced for a relatively brief four-year span, showcases this design philosophy in a more compact form. Its hull construction utilized polyester for robust durability, a common practice for Victoire during that era, ensuring a strong and enduring vessel.

The design features a fin keel with a bulb and a transom-hung rudder, indicative of a performance-oriented approach even in a smaller yacht. The fractional sloop rigging further enhances its sailing dynamics, allowing for efficient sail trim and responsiveness.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to the Victoire lineage, the 24 is characterized by a design that prioritizes both spirited performance and stability. While compact, its light displacement and significant ballast contribute to a boat that is keen in light airs and surprisingly stiff when the wind picks up. The bulb keel and transom-hung rudder provide good directional stability and precise steering, allowing the boat to track well and respond readily to helm input. As a fractional sloop, the Victoire 24 offers flexibility in sail handling, making it manageable for single-handed sailing or a small crew. Its round-bilged hull form, a hallmark of Victoire designs, contributes to its excellent sailing characteristics and comfortable motion through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the detailed interior layout of the Victoire 24 is not extensively documented in publicly available sources. Generally, small cruisers of this size prioritize efficient use of space to maximize functionality. Given Victoire Yachts' reputation for quality and craftsmanship, it can be inferred that the interior, though compact, would feature durable finishes. While the maximum headroom for the Victoire 24 is not specified in the available data, it is typical for boats of this size to offer standing headroom only in select areas, or limited headroom throughout. Owners would likely find a V-berth forward, a compact salon area, and possibly a small galley and marine head, designed for weekend trips or short coastal excursions. Storage solutions would be integrated cleverly to make the most of the limited volume.