Blusail 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Blusail 24 is characterized by its responsiveness and high power-to-weight ratio. With a displacement of approximately 1,250 kg (roughly 2,750 lbs) and a significant sail area, the boat is remarkably lively in light air. The hull features a modern, flat-bottomed section toward the stern, which facilitates early planing when sailing off the wind under its powerful asymmetric spinnaker. According to design notes from Vallicelli, the boat was engineered to provide a "dinghy-like" feel while maintaining the stability of a fixed-keel yacht, thanks to its 450 kg lead bulb.

The rigging is simplified for racing efficiency, often featuring a deck-stepped mast with swept-back spreaders that eliminate the need for a permanent backstay, allowing for a square-top mainsail configuration in some custom setups. Handling is described as precise, though the boat requires active weight management from the crew to keep the hull flat. In match racing contexts, the Blusail 24 is noted for its tight turning radius and ability to accelerate quickly out of tacks, making it a favorite for tactical training in European sailing centers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Blusail 24 is equipped with an enclosed cabin, the interior is strictly utilitarian and designed for "camping-style" overnighting or sail storage rather than extended cruising. The layout typically offers four basic berths—two in the V-berth area and two settees running aft—but lacks a standing headroom, galley, or permanent head. The primary function of the cabin is to provide a dry space for gear and a basic shelter from the elements.

There are few variations in the hull itself, though two distinct versions were marketed during its production run: the "Sport" version, optimized for racing with high-grade deck hardware and performance sails, and a "School" version, which often featured more robust, simplified rigging and reinforced gelcoat to withstand the rigors of daily instructional use. The use of mahogany or cherry trim is virtually non-existent, replaced by easy-to-clean fiberglass liners and marine-grade fabrics.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Blusail 24 gained significant visibility in Europe as the "official" boat for several high-profile match racing events and sailing academies. It was famously selected for use at the Lake Garda match racing circuits and has been a staple in the fleet of the Italian Naval Academy and various Yacht Clubs across the Mediterranean. Its reputation as a trainer for professional sailors has been documented in European maritime journals like Vela e Motore, which highlighted the boat's role in developing tactical skills for aspiring America's Cup or TP52 sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Potential buyers should approach the Blusail 24 as a high-performance machine that may have seen hard use in a racing or school environment.

• Keel Lift Mechanism: The retractable keel is a central feature but also a mechanical vulnerability. Inspect the lifting winch, cable, and the stainless steel guides for signs of corrosion or "slop" within the keel trunk, which can lead to vibration at high speeds.
• Deck Stress Cracking: Given the high tension of the rig and the frequent hiking of the crew, check the areas around the chainplates and the stanchion bases for spider-webbing or stress fractures in the gelcoat.
• Rudder Bearings: The transom-hung or spade rudder (depending on the specific production year) is subject to significant loads when the boat is powered up. Check for play in the bearings or bushings.
• Core Integrity: While the hulls are generally robust, some earlier models utilized balsa or foam coring in the deck. Ensure there are no soft spots, particularly around the mast step and cockpit floor.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and parts is the designer's archive at Vallicelli & C. While a formal international class association is less active today than during the boat's peak production in the mid-2000s, technical support is frequently found through Italian sailing federations and regional clubs on the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts.

The Verdict

The Blusail 24 is an uncompromising sport-boat that trades interior luxury for raw performance and transportability. It remains an excellent choice for sailors who want a "big dinghy" experience with the safety of a weighted bulb keel.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and planing potential.
• Easy to trailer and store, reducing berthing costs.
• Designed by a world-class firm (Vallicelli), ensuring sound naval architecture.

Cons:

• Minimalist interior offers no real cruising comfort.
• Requires an active, athletic crew to sail to its full potential.
• Used models from sailing schools may suffer from cosmetic and hardware wear.