Islander Bahama 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Bahama 24 is characterized by a high displacement-to-length ratio, which imparts a level of "big boat" feel rarely found in contemporary 24-footers. On the water, this translates to a stable, forgiving platform that resists the twitchiness common in lighter fin-keel boats. According to historical technical notes maintained by the Islander 36 Association, which serves as a primary repository for the brand’s legacy, the hull design features a modified long keel with a protected rudder, a configuration that provides excellent tracking and sea-kindliness in a chop.

While the boat is not a light-air performer—often requiring a 150% genoa to keep moving in winds under 8 knots—it shines when the breeze refreshes. The heavy ballast-to-displacement ratio ensures the boat remains upright and under control well after lighter daysailers have been forced to reef. The tiller steering is balanced, though the weight of the boat means it requires more momentum to tack than a modern sportboat. For the coastal cruiser, this handling profile offers a sense of security and a predictable motion that reduces crew fatigue on longer afternoon reaches.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 24-foot vessel designed in the mid-1960s, the Bahama 24 offers a surprisingly functional interior layout. The "Bahama" designation typically denoted a specific trim level that optimized the cabin for weekend cruising rather than long-term living. The standard configuration includes a V-berth forward, followed by a compact main salon with two opposing settees that double as berths. Small-vessel logic dictates a lack of standing headroom for taller sailors, yet the wide beam provides a sense of volume that prevents the cabin from feeling claustrophobic.

Materials in the Bahama 24 were often more utilitarian than the standard Islander 24, featuring more fiberglass liners and less exposed wood to keep maintenance and initial purchase costs low. The galley is rudimentary, usually consisting of a small sink and a space for a portable stove. Potential buyers should be aware of the sibling models: the original Islander 24 (the "planked" version) and the later Islander 24 Mk II. While the hulls are nearly identical in performance, the Bahama 24's deck mold and interior liner were specifically engineered to reduce production hours, a fact often discussed in regional Good Old Boat editorial retrospectives focusing on the "plastic classic" era.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an Islander Bahama 24, several age-related technical areas require scrutiny to ensure the vessel remains seaworthy.

• Deck Core Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Bahama 24 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress through improperly bedded stanchions or cleats can lead to soft spots. Pay particular attention to the area around the mast step and the cockpit sole.
• Chainplate Leaks: The chainplates on the 24 are known to leak if the sealant is not periodically refreshed. Because they are bolted to internal bulkheads, persistent leaks can lead to structural rot in the plywood bulkheads, compromising the rig's tension.
• Outboard Well Drainage: Many Bahama 24s were equipped with an engine well. If the drainage scuppers are clogged or the fiberglass around the well is damaged, it can lead to localized saturation or even transom weakness.
• Rudder Play: The pintles and gudgeons on the transom-hung or skeg-protected rudders should be checked for excessive movement, which can indicate worn bushings or structural fatigue in the rudder blade itself.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and historical documentation is the Islander 36 Association. While the association is named after the flagship 36, it serves as the official archive for the entire Islander line, including the Bahama 24. Owners often utilize this resource for original brochures, wiring diagrams, and advice on restoration projects. Additionally, because of the shared lineage with Columbia Yachts, some technical crossover information can be found through Columbia owner groups.

The Verdict

The Islander Bahama 24 is a rugged, entry-level classic that prioritizes durability and stability over raw speed. It is an ideal "trainer" boat for those graduating from dinghies or a low-cost coastal cruiser for a couple or small family.

Pros:

• Extremely stable and forgiving for its size.
• Heavy-duty fiberglass layup provides long-term structural integrity.
• Active owner community and brand recognition.
• Classic aesthetic that remains attractive in modern marinas.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light air (under 8 knots).
• Limited headroom for taller sailors.
• Older models often require significant upgrades to electrical and plumbing systems.
• The outboard well configuration can be awkward for some modern engine sizes.