Bluewater 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Blue Water 24 is defined by its displacement-to-length ratio, which places it firmly in the "heavy" category. With a displacement of 7,950 pounds and a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 38%, the boat is designed for stability and momentum rather than agility. It tracks exceptionally well due to its long, traditional keel, making it a favorite for single-handed sailors who value a boat that can hold its course without constant attention to the tiller.

Under sail, the masthead sloop rig (which can also be configured as a cutter) carries 276 square feet of canvas. In light air, the boat can feel sluggish; its sail area-to-displacement ratio is relatively low, meaning it requires a stiff breeze to overcome its significant wetted surface area. However, as the wind picks up, the Blue Water 24 finds its stride. It is a "stiff" boat that heels to a point and stays there, providing a secure feeling in choppy coastal waters. The raked stem and angled transom help it shed water effectively, though like many small, heavy-displacement boats, it can be "wet" in a head sea.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of only 24 feet, the interior of the Blue Water 24 is surprisingly voluminous, boasting a headroom of approximately 6' 1" (73 inches), which is rare for this size class. The layout generally accommodates four people across a V-berth in the bow and two quarter berths in the main cabin.

The interior arrangement is a point of frequent discussion among owners. In his analysis of the model, nautical author Steve Henkel noted that the enclosed head compartment is positioned amidships, which creates a somewhat cramped standing area (roughly 18 inches) in front of the galley. Unlike more modern designs that prioritize an open-concept salon, the Blue Water 24 feels compartmentalized, reflecting its mission as a serious offshore-capable cruiser where "bracing points" are more important than wide-open floor space. In 1979, the hull was utilized for a successor model known as the Passage 24, which featured a revised coach house and an updated interior layout to address some of the original's ergonomic challenges.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Blue Water 24 with the understanding that these are aging fiberglass hulls, often nearing or exceeding 60 years of age.

• Auxiliary Power: Many original units were fitted with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While reliable if maintained, these engines often face issues with cooling jackets and exhaust manifold corrosion. Many have been repowered with small diesels, which significantly increases the vessel's value.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many early fiberglass boats, the Blue Water 24 uses a balsa or plywood core in the deck. Inspections should focus on soft spots around the chainplates and the mast step, where water intrusion is most common.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the long keel is integral, the internal ballast (often lead or iron) should be checked for signs of "smiling" or separation if the boat has suffered a significant grounding in its history.
• Rudder Bearings: The keel-mounted rudder is exceptionally sturdy, but the pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear over decades. Excessive play in the tiller often indicates the need for hardware replacement or bushing work.

Community & Resources

Owners and enthusiasts of Thomas Gillmer’s smaller designs often congregate in broader "pocket cruiser" communities. While there is no longer an active manufacturer support line, the Thomas Gillmer Design archive provides historical context for his work, which also includes the famous Allied Seawind and the Blue Moon. Technical discussions regarding the 24 are frequently found within groups dedicated to the Flicka 20 and Dana 24, as the Blue Water 24 is considered a spiritual contemporary to these heavy-built cruisers.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Exceptional seaworthiness and tracking for a 24-foot boat.
• Impressive 6' 1" headroom rarely found in this size range.
• High-quality Gillmer pedigree ensures strong secondary market interest.

Cons:

• Underpowered in light winds due to heavy displacement.
• Interior layout can feel cramped and disjointed due to amidships head.
• Original Atomic 4 engines require significant maintenance or replacement.