Quickstep 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Quickstep 24 is widely regarded for its exceptional directional stability and predictable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of 4,000 pounds and a ballast of 1,900 pounds of cast lead, the boat possesses a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 48%. This makes it remarkably stiff and capable of standing up to fresh breezes and choppy conditions better than many contemporaries in the 24-foot class. According to a detailed retrospective by SpinSheet, the design features a modified full keel that is significantly cut away at the forefoot, with a secondary "bite" taken out just forward of the skeg-hung rudder. This configuration reduces wetted surface and drag while allowing for easier tacking than a traditional full keel.

Handling is characterized as forgiving, with the boat "wanting" to track a straight course, making it a favorite for single-handed sailing. However, the same tracking ability that provides stability can make tight maneuvers in a marina challenging; some owners suggest using an outboard assist for sharp turns. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 16.4 indicates it is a moderate performer rather than a light-air specialist, though its hull speed of approximately 5.8 knots is respectable for its 19-foot waterline.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Quickstep 24 is designed for "sit-up" headroom, measuring approximately 53 inches, which emphasizes its role as a daysailer with overnight capabilities rather than a standing-headroom cruiser. The layout evolved significantly over its decade-plus production run. Early models, built primarily by Stannard and C.E. Ryder, featured a simpler arrangement with a large V-berth forward, a head located beneath the berth cushions, and a modest galley area to port.

Later production variants, particularly those associated with the Quickstep Sailboats era, often incorporated twin quarter berths aft. While this increased sleeping capacity to four, it notably "squeezed" the galley space and moved the sink and icebox further forward. The interior is generally finished in warm teak, providing a high-quality feel that distinguishes it from more utilitarian production boats of the same era. Despite these variations, the hull remains identical across all siblings, though Ted Brewer Yacht Design notes that the first two hulls were built to lighter displacement specifications (3,300 lbs) than the standard production run.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Quickstep 24 has maintained a consistent presence in nautical literature focusing on small-boat cruising. It was notably reviewed by marine surveyor Jack Hornor for BoatUS and SpinSheet, where he famously asked, "How did I miss this little gem for so many years?" and praised it as a superior alternative to more tender designs like the Sailmaster 22. Its "classic" looks often draw comparisons to Cape Dory designs, though the Quickstep is frequently cited for having a more comfortable and spacious 7-foot cockpit.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on several technical areas common to New England boats of this vintage:

• Toerail and Deck Leaks: A frequent point of discussion among owners involves water ingress through the toerail fasteners. The deck-to-hull joint is an inward flange; if the sealant has degraded, re-bedding the entire toerail may be necessary to keep the interior dry.
• Chainplate Bedding: Inspection of the chainplates where they penetrate the deck is vital. Early hulls occasionally suffered from insufficient bedding, which can lead to moisture in the deck core if not addressed.
• Motor Well Growth: Most Quickstep 24s are powered by an outboard in a dedicated lazarette well. This design keeps the engine weight centered but prevents the motor from being tilted out of the water. Owners must apply anti-fouling paint to the lower unit to prevent marine growth.
• Mast Step Compression: In some older units, there have been reports of compression at the mast step. Inspect the deck for "crazing" or slight depressions around the base of the mast.
• Gelcoat Fading: Dark-colored hulls (typically green or blue) were popular options but are prone to fading and oxidation. Buyers should check if the hull is original gelcoat or has been repainted with a two-part polyurethane.

Community & Resources

The boat is supported by the Quickstep Owners' Group, which provides a centralized hub for technical data, replacement parts, and shared sailing experiences for the 24, as well as its smaller siblings, the Quickstep 19 and 21.

The Verdict

The Quickstep 24 is an ideal choice for the traditionalist who values sea-kindliness and build quality over interior volume.

Pros:

• High Stability: Stiff performance in heavy air due to a high ballast ratio.
• Large Cockpit: The 7-foot cockpit comfortably seats four adults.
• Superior Tracking: Excellent for single-handing and long coastal reaches.
• Classic Aesthetics: Timeless Ted Brewer lines and a beautiful canoe stern.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: Only 53 inches of sitting headroom in the cabin.
• Motor Well Drag: The outboard cannot be tilted, leading to drag and growth.
• Tight Galley: Later four-berth models sacrifice galley utility.