Cornish Crabbers 24 Mk V Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 24 Mk V is characterized by its remarkable stability and forgiving nature, largely due to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio that ensures the vessel remains upright and composed when gusts catch the generous gaff mainsail. In an editorial test by Yachting Monthly, the vessel was noted for its surprising agility; the use of a carbon fiber mast—now standard on many new builds—significantly reduces weight aloft, minimizing the hobby-horsing motion common in traditional heavy-displacement hulls.

Tracking is exceptional thanks to the long keel, yet the inclusion of a lifting steel centerplate allows the Mk V to point higher into the wind than traditional gaffers of this size. While it is not a racing machine, the Mk V carries its momentum through a chop with a "steamroller" effect that provides a sense of security in the English Channel or the North Sea. The handling is intentionally heavy but communicative, providing a physical connection to the elements that modern fin-keel yachts often lack.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 24 Mk V is a masterclass in utilizing limited volume. Unlike the earlier Mk I and Mk II models, which featured a more compartmentalized and somewhat dark cabin, the Mk V utilizes a light-colored headliner and strategic glazing to create an airy atmosphere. The layout typically features four berths: two in the main saloon and a large double V-berth forward. A significant upgrade in the Mk V is the dedicated heads compartment, which is positioned to maximize privacy without compromising the flow of the saloon.

The galley is compact but functional, featuring a two-burner stove and a sink with pressurized water, making it a viable weekending platform. Materials have transitioned from the dark, heavy timbers of the 1970s to lighter oak or cherry finishes. Sibling models built on the same 24-foot heritage include the original Mk I (often plywood or early GRP with a more cramped "pipe-cot" arrangement), the Mk II with its modified coachroof, and the Mk IV, which introduced more modern build techniques but lacked the refined cockpit ergonomics of the Mk V.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Cornish Crabber 24 series has a storied cultural footprint, famously appearing in various maritime literatures as the quintessential British coastal cruiser. While the Mk V is the newest iteration, the lineage of the Crabber 24 is celebrated in the works of nautical writers who prize the "slow sailing" movement. The model is frequently featured in Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly as a benchmark for the "modern classic" category.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Mk V is a relatively new model with many units still under or recently out of warranty, potential buyers should focus on the specific complexities of the gaff rig and the lifting keel system.

1. Lifting Keel Mechanism: The winch and cable system for the centerplate require annual inspection. Any stiffness in the operation usually points to marine growth in the keel box or a frayed wire, which can be a difficult fix if the boat is not hauled out.
2. Gaff Rig Hardware: The wooden or carbon spars and the leather-bound gaff jaws should be checked for chafe. The complexity of the rigging (peak and throat halyards) means there are more points of failure than a standard Bermudan rig.
3. Engine Access: While the Yanmar inboard is generally bulletproof, the tight engine box can make checking the raw water impeller and oil seals a nimble-fingered task. Buyers should look for signs of salt spray around the alternator, which can occur if the cooling hoses are not properly seated.
4. Chainplate Sealing: Like all Crabbers, the traditional chainplates are bolted through the hull/deck join. Ensure there is no evidence of water ingress or "tea-staining" (rust streaks) on the interior cabinetry.

Community & Resources

The most vital resource for any owner is the Cornish Crabbers Club, a highly active association that hosts rallies and maintains a deep technical archive for all generations of the 24. Additionally, the Shrimper Owners Association provides a wealth of knowledge on gaff-rig maintenance that is directly applicable to the 24 Mk V, as many owners transition from the Shrimper 19 to the larger Crabber 24.

The Verdict

The Cornish Crabber 24 Mk V is a refined, soulful cruiser that offers a bridge between the romanticism of the past and the reliability of the present.

Pros:

• Aesthetic Brilliance: One of the most beautiful production boats on the water, retaining high resale value.
• Shallow Draft: The lifting keel allows for creek crawling and drying out on sandy bottoms.
• Build Quality: Modern vacuum-infusion techniques result in a stiff, durable hull with fewer osmotic risks.

Cons:

• Rigging Complexity: The gaff rig requires more "strings" to pull and more attention to trim than a simple sloop.
• Price Point: As a boutique British build, it commands a significant premium over mass-produced 24-footers.
• Space Limitations: Despite the "big boat" feel, it remains a 24-foot vessel with limited storage for long-term cruising.