GK 24 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

While the name "Westerly Marine" might evoke images of the high-performance, custom composite vessels crafted by Westerly Marine Inc. of Santa Ana, California, the GK 24 was, in fact, a product of a distinct British company, Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. in Waterlooville, England. This British builder was primarily known for producing sturdy cruising yachts, making the GK 24 a notable foray into the performance market for them.

The genesis of the Westerly GK 24 lies in the competitive world of IOR Quarter Ton racing. Commissioned by Westerly Marine Construction Ltd. in 1975, the design was a collaborative effort by renowned naval architects Laurent Giles and Chris Hawkins. Their brief was to create an "uncompromising sailing boat with a performance good enough to attract racing enthusiasts." The design was directly influenced by Chris Hawkins' successful cold-moulded mahogany Quarter Ton prototype, "Ebblake IV."

The GK 24 was produced over a relatively short period, from 1976 to 1981, with approximately 320 units built. While its British builder was typically associated with more traditional, comfortable cruisers, the GK 24 represented a clear intention to cater to a segment of the market seeking faster, more agile vessels. During its production run, Westerly offered the GK 24 with variations, including a standard fin keel drawing 5.0 feet and a shoal draft option at 4.08 feet. Additionally, while the standard rig was a masthead sloop, a fractional rig version was also available, offering differing sail plans for performance optimization.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly GK 24, with its IOR heritage, was designed for lively performance. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.3 suggests a boat with good all-around performance, capable of moving well in light to moderate conditions without being overly powerful in heavier air. With a ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.34, the GK 24 offers a balance between stability and agility; while it might exhibit some tenderness initially, it remains responsive and nimble.

Its displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 244, places it in a moderate category—not a feather-light racer, but certainly not a heavy, traditional cruiser either. This contributes to its reputation as a "flush-decked production cruiser/racer." Owners and reviewers consistently praise the GK 24 for its "superb speed and handling," describing it as a "true racing boat." It is often noted for being "easily handled by one" and possessing "good sailing characteristics." Despite its origins in racing, owners have found it to be surprisingly capable in a seaway, with some even describing its ability to handle heavy seas akin to a much larger vessel. Yachtdatabase.com noted that the GK 24's "relative speed performance is 66," indicating it is faster than 66% of similar sailboat designs.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary design as an IOR Quarter Ton-inspired racer, the Westerly GK 24's interior accommodations are generally considered functional rather than luxurious, often characterized by a "lack of headroom." The boat was available in different versions, including a "Budget Boat" that was "stripped out" to prioritize racing performance.

Typically, the interior layout features a V-berth forward, which often converts into sleeping for two. A marine head is commonly located just aft of the V-berth, usually without a dedicated enclosed compartment. The main salon usually consists of opposing settees that can serve as berths, with a small table, often foldable or removable. A compact galley area is usually found near the companionway, providing basic amenities such as a sink and space for a portable stove. Storage is generally adequate for weekend cruising or short races, with lockers under the settees and berths. The finish quality is typical of GRP production boats of its era, often featuring a blend of fiberglass surfaces and some wood trim. Ventilation is provided through a main companionway and often a forward hatch.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly GK 24 frequently highlight its strengths, including its "solid construction" and enjoyable sailing experience. Many praise its performance capabilities and responsive handling, leading some to affectionately dub it "Westerly's best-kept secret." Its ability to be "easily handled by one" is a recurring positive, as is its surprising composure in challenging conditions, with some owners finding it reassuringly robust in heavy seas. Owners often develop a strong fondness for the vessel, appreciating its unique blend of racing heritage and cruising utility.

The most commonly mentioned weakness or design compromise by owners is the limited headroom in the cabin, a direct consequence of its sleek, performance-oriented deck profile. While originally conceived as a Quarter Ton racer, some owners note that it wasn't consistently competitive against purpose-built designs in that class, though its sailing characteristics still made it a rewarding boat. As with any boat of its age, some older GK 24s may require significant maintenance to address wear and tear.