Corsair F-24 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the F-24 Mk II are defined by its high power-to-weight ratio and the efficiency of its Ian Farrier-designed hulls. With a displacement of approximately 1,500 to 1,800 pounds depending on the specific equipment, the boat is incredibly responsive to sail trim. It typically features a rotating wing mast—often aluminum on standard models, though some were upgraded to carbon fiber—which acts as an aerodynamic extension of the mainsail. This setup, combined with a large, square-top main, allows the boat to accelerate rapidly in light air.

Handling is sharp and more akin to a high-performance dinghy than a traditional cruising yacht. The boat utilizes a retractable daggerboard and a kick-up rudder, which not only facilitate shallow-water exploration but also reduce drag when sailing off the wind. According to technical insights from Farrier Marine, the design emphasizes low-buoyancy amas (outer hulls) compared to modern "extreme" racing trimarans, which provides a more forgiving ride in gusty conditions while still allowing the boat to reach speeds well into the high teens or low twenties. Tracking is excellent, though like most light multihulls, it requires active helm participation to maintain momentum through tacks in heavy chop.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 24-foot vessel, the F-24 Mk II offers a surprisingly functional interior, though it remains firmly in the "pocket cruiser" category. The cabin provides a V-berth forward and two long settees that can serve as additional berths. One of the most critical features of the Mk II is its "pop-top" companionway cover, which provides standing headroom in the galley area when at anchor—a luxury rarely found on boats of this size. The interior is finished with a liner that is both structural and aesthetic, providing a clean, low-maintenance environment.

The F-24 Mk II saw several variations and siblings throughout its production run. The original Mk I featured a different deck mold and a more utilitarian interior. Most notably, the hull of the F-24 Mk II served as the foundation for the Corsair Sprint 750. While the F-24 Mk II is a dedicated cruiser-racer with a full cabin, the Sprint 750 utilized the same hull but replaced the cabin with a massive, open cockpit for day sailing and racing. Another sibling is the Corsair 24, which was a later rebranding and slight evolution of the Mk II design after the formal design relationship with Ian Farrier concluded.

Popular Mentions & Media

The F-24 series earned significant acclaim early in its life cycle, most notably when the original F-24 was named "Boat of the Year" by Cruising World magazine in the early 90s, a reputation that the Mk II carried forward. The model has been featured extensively in multihull-specific publications like Multihulls World, where it is frequently cited as the entry-point benchmark for trailerable trimarans. Its cultural footprint is also cemented in the "F-Boat" community, a dedicated global network of owners who document extensive coastal "safaris" and racing successes on platforms dedicated to Farrier’s designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a used Corsair F-24 Mk II, potential buyers should focus on the integrity of the folding mechanism and the composite structure. While robust, these areas are subject to wear over decades of use.

1. Folding Beam Bolts and Brackets: The stainless steel bolts and aluminum brackets that facilitate the folding system should be inspected for corrosion or "slop." If the boat was used extensively in salt water without regular rinsing, the pivot points can seize or undergo galvanic corrosion.
2. Daggerboard Trunk and Bearing: Check the daggerboard trunk for impact damage or cracks near the exit at the keel. Also, ensure the daggerboard slides freely; swelling or delamination of the board itself can make deployment difficult.
3. Ams/Hull Joinery: While Corsair’s vacuum-bagging process is high-quality, older boats may show stress cracking at the beam-to-hull attachment points. Fine spiderweb cracks are often cosmetic, but deep crazing requires professional evaluation.
4. Core Integrity: Use a phenolic hammer to tap out the decks and amas, looking for dull thuds that indicate delamination or water ingress into the foam core, particularly around aftermarket hardware installations.
5. Mast Step and Rigging: Since many of these boats are frequently stepped and unstepped for trailering, the mast step and the forestay attachment point see significant wear. Inspect for any deformation in the aluminum mast base.

Community & Resources

The F-24 Mk II benefits from one of the most organized owner bases in the sailing world. The Corsair Yacht Owners Association provides a wealth of technical data and community support. Additionally, the Farrier Marine website remains a vital resource for understanding the design evolution and technical specifications of the "F-Boat" family, including the specific nuances of the Mk II’s hull shape and rig.

The Verdict

The Corsair F-24 Mk II is an elite choice for sailors who refuse to choose between the speed of a multihull and the convenience of a trailer-sailer. It remains a benchmark for build quality and resale value in the 24-foot class.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: The folding system allows for storage in a standard driveway and access to shallow anchorages.
• High Resale Value: Demand for well-maintained Ian Farrier designs remains consistently high.
• Speed: Easily capable of double-digit speeds, providing an "adrenaline" factor most 24-footers lack.

Cons:

• Limited Living Space: While it has a cabin, it is best suited for "weekend camping" rather than extended cruising.
• Complexity: The folding mechanism and rotating rig require more maintenance and setup time than a simple fixed-keel monohull.
• Initial Cost: Even on the used market, the F-24 Mk II commands a premium price compared to monohulls of the same age.