Sailing Performance & Handling
The Laguna 24 ST is defined by its masthead rig, which stands approximately 1.6 feet taller than the standard 24S version. This increased sail area, combined with a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 156, places the boat in the "light cruiser" or "light racer" category. Under sail, the ST is a notable light-air performer. With a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio exceeding 20, the boat accelerates quickly in zephyrs that would leave heavier coastal cruisers becalmed.
Handling is characterized by a responsive, transom-hung rudder that provides immediate feedback to the tiller. According to technical assessments found on Wikipedia's entry for the Laguna 24 series, the ST variant carries more ballast (1,100 lbs) compared to the standard model (900 lbs) to compensate for the higher center of effort created by the taller mast. Despite this extra weight, the boat remains tender in a blow. Most owners find that reefing early—around 12 to 15 knots of apparent wind—is necessary to maintain a comfortable heel and prevent excessive weather helm. The fixed fin keel, drawing approximately 3 feet, offers a reasonable compromise between upwind tracking and the ability to navigate shallow coastal waters or inland lakes.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a 24-foot trailerable sailboat, the Laguna 24 ST offers a surprisingly voluminous interior, a hallmark of W. Shad Turner’s "wide-body" design philosophy. The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a central salon with twin settees, and a compact galley area. While the hull beam of 8.33 feet provides substantial elbow room, the true centerpiece of the interior is the "pop-top" deck section. When raised at anchor, this feature provides nearly six feet of headroom in the main cabin, a luxury rarely found in boats of this length.
Sibling models built on the same hull offer various trade-offs:
- Laguna 24S: The standard version with a fractional rig and lower displacement, suited for more relaxed daysailing.
- Windrose 24: The predecessor, which featured a swing keel (drawing 5.08 ft when down) for improved trailerability and shallow-water beaching.
- Balboa 24: A closely related sibling from the Coastal Recreation acquisition, often featuring more utilitarian finishes but the same basic hull performance.
- Classic 24: The late-80s successor built in Kansas, which maintained the 24 ST’s lines but often featured updated interior laminates and modernized hardware.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique features of the ST’s tall-rig configuration and the age of its fiberglass components.
- Mast Step and Compression: Given the taller masthead rig of the ST, the mast step and the supporting compression post are under higher loads than the standard model. Inspect the cabin sole and deck around the mast for "crazing" or sinking, which can indicate structural fatigue.
- Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of the 1980s, Laguna used a balsa or plywood core in the deck. Soft spots are common around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the pop-top seal. Any "springiness" in the deck should be investigated for moisture intrusion.
- Rudder and Transom Stress: The transom-hung rudder is subject to significant leverage. Owners on community forums have frequently noted stress cracks in the gelcoat around the gudgeons. Ensure the rudder pintles are secure and the transom shows no signs of delamination.
- Rigging Tension: Because the ST is "over-rigged" relative to its displacement, maintaining proper shroud tension is critical. Look for evidence of "scalloping" in the sails or loose halyards during sea trials, as reported by enthusiasts in technical rigging discussions.
Community & Resources
Owners of the Laguna 24 ST often find technical support and camaraderie through the Windrose and Laguna Owners Association, which maintains informal archives of original factory brochures and manual scans. The shared heritage with the Balboa line also allows owners to tap into the broader community of W. Shad Turner design enthusiasts, who frequently exchange parts and restoration advice.
The Verdict
The Laguna 24 ST is an ideal entry-level cruiser for those who prioritize light-air performance and interior volume over heavy-weather ruggedness.
Pros:
- Excellent light-wind agility due to the tall masthead rig and high SA/Disp ratio.
- Exceptional interior headroom for its class when the pop-top is deployed.
- Easily trailerable with a standard heavy-duty SUV or truck.
Cons:
- Tender in heavy air; requires proactive reefing to stay upright and manageable.
- Age-related maintenance of deck cores and pop-top seals can be extensive.
- The fixed fin keel limits beaching options compared to the Windrose swing-keel variants.
