PUMA 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Puma 24 are deeply influenced by the IOR (International Offshore Rule) trends of the early 1970s, featuring a moderate beam, a fine entry, and a relatively heavy displacement for its length. Sailors often describe the boat as "noble," a term used in Spanish maritime circles to denote a vessel that tracks well and does not behave erratically in a blow. With a fin keel and a spade rudder, the Puma 24 provides a level of maneuverability that was superior to many of the long-keel cruisers of its time.

Under sail, the boat feels stiff and secure. Because it was designed for the Mediterranean, where winds can shift rapidly from dead calm to a fierce Tramontana, the rig is stout. While it may not be a light-air flyer due to its displacement-to-length ratio, it excels in 12 to 18 knots of breeze. The Harlé design ensures that the helm remains light even when the boat is pressed, provided the sail trim is managed correctly. Owners frequently note that the boat reaches its hull speed with surprising ease and maintains a steady motion through a chop, avoiding the "hobby-horsing" common in lighter, modern production boats of this size.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 24-foot vessel, the interior of the Puma 24 is remarkably functional, reflecting Philippe Harlé’s expertise in maximizing small living spaces. The layout typically features a classic "V" berth in the bow, a compact marine head (toilet) situated between the forward cabin and the salon, and two longitudinal settees in the main cabin that double as sea berths. The use of dark woods and high-quality joinery was a hallmark of Nao-Glass, giving the interior a "big boat" feel that belies its modest LOA.

The galley is usually positioned near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a small sink and a stove. Headroom is generous for a boat under 25 feet, though tall sailors will still find it a "stooping" cabin. Variations of the model primarily concern the engine installation; while many were fitted with small inboard diesel engines (such as the Solé Diesel or Yanmar units), some were produced with outboard wells. The sibling models, particularly the Puma 26, offer a similar aesthetic but provide a dedicated chart table and slightly more beam, whereas the Puma 23 feels significantly more cramped in comparison to the 24’s clever use of midship width.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Puma 24 should approach the vessel with an understanding of its age, focusing on the structural integrity of the GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic).

• Osmosis: Like many Mediterranean boats from the 1970s, the Puma 24 is known to be susceptible to osmotic blistering. A professional hull survey is essential to check for moisture levels in the laminate.
• Deck Core: The deck is a sandwich construction. Areas around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step should be checked for "sponginess," which indicates water ingress and rot in the balsa or plywood core.
• Rigging and Chainplates: The original chainplates are robust, but the bolts securing them to the bulkheads can suffer from crevice corrosion over decades. Inspection of the mast step and the structural bulkheads for compression damage is highly recommended.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder configuration can develop "play" or vibration over time. Replacing the rudder bushings is a common maintenance task for this model to ensure responsive steering.
• Original Engines: If the boat still carries its original Solé Diesel engine, parts availability should be verified. Many owners choose to repower, as the cost of a major overhaul can approach the market value of the vessel.

Community & Resources

The Puma brand enjoys a dedicated following, particularly in Spain and the Balearic Islands. The most prominent resource for technical data and historical documentation is the Club Puma, an association of owners that maintains an active presence online and organizes local regattas for classic Puma models. Technical wikis and owner-contributed repair guides can often be found through Spanish-language sailing portals such as La Taberna del Puerto, where the Puma 24 is frequently discussed as a premier choice for those entering the world of classic yacht ownership.

The Verdict

The Puma 24 remains one of the most respected small cruisers in the second-hand European market. It bridges the gap between a simple daysailer and a true coastal cruiser, offering a level of build quality and design pedigree that is rare in modern boats of the same size.

Pros:

• Excellent heavy-weather stability and "noble" handling.
• High-quality interior joinery and clever use of space for its length.
• Designed by Philippe Harlé, ensuring balanced performance.
• Strong community support and a classic, timeless aesthetic.

Cons:

• High displacement makes it less competitive in light-air racing.
• Susceptibility to osmosis requires careful hull inspection.
• Aging systems (original engines/plumbing) often require significant updates.