Este 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing philosophy of the Este 24 is defined by agility and responsiveness. With a displacement of approximately 1,000 kg and a generous sail plan, the boat exhibits a high power-to-weight ratio that allows it to plane easily downwind under its large asymmetric spinnaker. The hull shape features a relatively flat aft section and a fine entry, which minimizes drag in light air—a common condition in its native Italian waters. Its handling is often described by owners as "dinghy-like," requiring active weight distribution and precise trimming to maximize performance.

The fractional rig is intentionally simple yet highly tunable, allowing crews of four or five to depower the main as the breeze builds. The technical heart of its versatility is the lifting keel, which reduces draft from 1.40 meters to just 0.50 meters. This feature does not just facilitate trailering; it allows the boat to access shallow harbors and beaches that are off-limits to fixed-keel sportboats. However, when the keel is locked down, the ballast provides sufficient righting moment to handle heavier offshore conditions, a fact reinforced by the boat’s frequent participation in coastal long-distance races.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While primarily a racing platform, the Este 24 offers a surprisingly functional interior for its size. The cabin layout is "open-concept," featuring four berths—two in the V-berth forward and two settee berths extending aft. The absence of bulkheads creates a sense of space that belies its 24-foot length, though the headroom is limited, as is common in the sportboat category. The finish is typically clean, white gelcoat with minimal wood trim, emphasizing a low-maintenance, weight-conscious aesthetic.

Variations in the model are primarily found in the "Standard" versus "Race" rigging packages rather than structural hull changes. Earlier models may feature slightly different deck hardware layouts, but the class rules have been strictly managed to ensure that a 1995 hull remains competitive against newer builds. There are no known sibling models sharing this specific 7.5m hull mold, as the Este 24 was developed as a dedicated one-design; however, it shares its design DNA and construction methodology with its larger sibling, the Este 31.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Este 24 is a staple of Italian maritime media, frequently featured in Giornale della Vela for its role in the "Circuito Nazionale" (National Circuit). The boat gained significant cultural traction as the chosen platform for the "Gavitello d'Argento" and various corporate sailing events, owing to its ease of use and spectacular appearance on the water. It has also been a training ground for professional sailors who moved into the America's Cup and TP52 circuits, cementing its reputation as a "university of sailing" in the Mediterranean.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspection on the specific stresses associated with one-design racing and the mechanics of the lifting keel.

1. Keel Lifting Mechanism: The winch and cable system used to raise and lower the keel should be checked for fraying or corrosion. Because the keel is movable, the "keel trunk" (the internal housing) should be inspected for stress cracks or signs of water ingress where it joins the hull.
2. Rudder Blade and Gudgeons: The high speeds achieved downwind put significant pressure on the transom-hung rudder. Check for play in the pintles and gudgeons, and inspect the blade for any osmotic blistering or core delamination.
3. Mast Step and Chainplates: On older racing boats, the rig tension used to keep the forestay tight can lead to compression at the mast step. Inspect the area for any "crazing" or depression in the fiberglass.
4. Hull-to-Deck Joint: Look for separation or leaks, particularly near the bow and stern, which can occur after years of aggressive "close-quarters" racing and occasional bumps at the mark.

Community & Resources

The Este 24 community is exceptionally well-organized, centered almost exclusively around the Classe Este 24. This association manages the race calendar, maintains the strict one-design rules, and provides a network for technical support and parts sourcing. While technical wikis are rare for this specific model, the class website serves as the primary repository for tuning guides and measurement certificates.

The Verdict

The Este 24 is an elegant, high-performance Italian thoroughbred that manages to be both a fierce competitor on the racecourse and a capable weekend daysailer.

Pros:

• Design Pedigree: A genuine German Frers design with timeless aesthetic appeal.
• Trailability: The combination of a 2.50m beam and a lifting keel makes it easy to transport and store on land.
• Vibrant Class: Strong one-design support ensures the boat holds its value and provides ample racing opportunities.
• Versatile Handling: Excels in light air but remains stable and safe when the wind picks up.

Cons:

• Spartan Interior: Minimal amenities make it unsuitable for anything more than basic overnighting.
• Physicality: Requires an active, coordinated crew to sail at its full potential; not ideal for solo sailing in heavy weather.
• Maintenance of Movable Parts: The lifting keel requires more maintenance than a standard fixed keel.