Husky 24 MS Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Husky 24 MS is fundamentally a motor-first vessel, designed with a high displacement-to-length ratio that favors stability and momentum over agility. Under sail, the boat is best described as steady. It typically carries a modest sloop or cutter rig with a relatively low sail area-to-displacement ratio, meaning it requires a stiff breeze—up to Force 4 or 5—to truly come alive. On a reach or a run, the heavy hull provides a motion that is remarkably "big" for a 24-footer, resisting the snappy rolling motion common in lighter sailboats of this size.

However, its performance to windward is limited by its shallow draft and full-bodied hull shape. For most owners, the sails serve as stabilizers or secondary propulsion to assist the engine during long passages. Tracking is generally excellent due to the long keel, which makes it easy to hold a course even in a following sea. When maneuvering under power, the Husky 24 responds predictably, though its weight means it carries considerable headway; skippers must plan their docking approaches with more care than they would in a lighter fin-keel boat.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of only 24 feet, the Husky 24 MS offers an impressive amount of living space, largely due to its generous beam and high topsides. The layout is typically centered around a main saloon that benefits from the "pilot house" style windows, which allow significant natural light into the cabin—a rarity for boats of this vintage. Most configurations feature a V-berth forward and a convertible dinette in the saloon, comfortably accommodating a couple for extended coastal cruising.

The interior joinery in these Danish builds is usually heavy teak or mahogany plywood, reflecting a "ship-like" aesthetic. The galley is functional but compact, usually located near the companionway for ventilation. A key variation in this model involves the cockpit enclosure; some versions were delivered with a hard-backed wheelhouse, while others utilized a semi-enclosed steering station with a canvas canopy. The larger sibling, the Husky Dane 85, expanded on this concept with a dedicated aft cabin, a feature the 24-foot model lacks due to its shorter waterline.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Husky 24 MS with a focus on its structural and mechanical longevity, given that most hulls are now several decades old.

• Window Seals and Leakage: The large, signature windows are a common source of leaks. Over time, the rubber gaskets or aluminum frames can degrade, leading to water ingress that damages the teak interior.
• Engine Serviceability: These boats were often fitted with Volvo Penta or Bukh diesel engines. While these are reliable units, parts for older models (like the Bukh DV10 or early Volvo MD series) can be expensive and harder to source. Inspect the engine mounts and the stern gland for signs of excessive vibration or weeping.
• Deck Core Integrity: While the hulls are generally solid GRP, the decks may use a sandwich construction. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the mounting points for the stainless steel pulpit and stanchions.
• Osmosis: As with many thick-laminate boats from the 1970s, "osmotic blistering" is a possibility. While rarely structural on a hull of this thickness, it is a factor in valuation and long-term maintenance planning.

The Verdict

The Husky 24 MS is a specialized craft that appeals to the "slow boating" enthusiast who values safety and shelter over high-speed performance. It is a capable coastal cruiser that punches well above its weight in terms of seaworthiness.

Pros

• Exceptional stability and "big boat" feel in rough water.
• Protected steering position provides comfort in cold or rainy climates.
• High-quality Danish construction and classic nautical aesthetic.
• Spacious interior for its length, suitable for weekend or week-long cruising.

Cons

• Lackluster sailing performance in light winds.
• Limited windward capability compared to pure sailboats.
• High displacement makes it difficult to trail behind standard vehicles.
• Aging mechanical systems and window seals require diligent maintenance.