Sailart 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Sailart 24 is characterized by a high degree of stability and a predictable, stiff response to gusts, largely due to its high ballast ratio. Unlike its smaller, more "dinghy-like" siblings, the 24 feels like a proper yacht. During sea trials conducted by the German publication Yacht.de, the boat demonstrated impressive light-wind capabilities, owing to a clean hull form and a modern fractional rig. The boat is typically offered with a variety of keel configurations, including a fixed keel for maximum stability or a performance-oriented lifting keel that reduces draft to just 0.60 meters, making it an ideal candidate for shallow-water exploration or drying out on a tide.

The steering is noted for being exceptionally light and communicative. Because the boat is relatively light for its size—displacing roughly 1,600 to 1,800 kg depending on the configuration—it accelerates quickly out of tacks. When equipped with the optional gennaker or Code Zero on a fixed bowsprit, the Sailart 24 transitions from a docile family cruiser into a spirited performer capable of reaching speeds that exceed its theoretical hull speed on a broad reach. Its tracking is aided by a deep, high-aspect rudder, though owners suggest that in heavy air, the boat benefits from early reefing to maintain its balance and prevent excessive weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Sailart 24 is where the brand’s "flagship" status is most evident. The shipyard utilized the increased volume to move away from the "camping-style" interiors of smaller models toward a more integrated, "floating" furniture concept. The cabin features a spacious V-berth forward and two generous settee berths in the main salon, comfortably accommodating four adults for overnight trips. A notable design choice is the use of light-colored woods and high-quality GRP finishes that maximize the perception of space in what remains a compact hull.

Storage is cleverly integrated under the berths and within small cabinets, a system Sailart calls their "modular locker" approach. Variations of the model focus primarily on the galley and head arrangements; while most hulls feature a slide-out galley and a portable toilet tucked away under the companionway, some custom iterations have been seen with more permanent installations. The headroom is generous for a boat that can be hauled behind a standard SUV, though it does not offer full standing room—a necessary compromise to maintain the boat's sleek, low-profile exterior lines.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Sailart 24 has earned significant acclaim in the European sailing press, frequently cited as a benchmark for the "Small Cruiser" category. It was prominently featured and tested by Yacht magazine, where it was praised for its build quality and the "big boat" feel it provides within a 7.3-meter frame. While it lacks the high-profile racing history of larger yachts, it has a dedicated following among European lake sailors and has appeared in various regional boat show showcases as a premier example of modern German trailer-sailer design.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a pre-owned Sailart 24 should focus their inspection on the following technical areas:

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: On models equipped with the lifting keel, inspect the winch and stainless steel cables for fraying or corrosion. Because the keel is often retracted for trailering, the mechanism sees more wear than a fixed-keel equivalent.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: Early production units may show signs of stress cracking around the stanchion bases or the bowsprit attachment point if the boat has been raced hard under gennaker.
• Window Seals: The sleek, elongated side windows are a signature of the Sailart aesthetic. Ensure there are no signs of leaking or "crazing" in the acrylic, as replacing these custom-fit panels can be costly.
• Trailer Weight Compliance: While the boat is advertised as trailerable, once loaded with an outboard motor, fuel, water, and personal gear, the total weight can approach the 2,000 kg limit of many standard trailers. Confirm that the trailer provided is rated for the actual "wet" weight of the vessel.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Sailart 24 benefit from the manufacturer's continued existence and active support from the headquarters in Erftstadt. While there is no large international class association, there is a strong regional presence in Germany and Switzerland. Technical support and original parts are often sourced directly from the Sailart shipyard, which maintains a close relationship with its customer base.

The Verdict

The Sailart 24 is a refined, high-quality pocket cruiser that offers a "no-compromise" build for the sailor who requires trailerability without sacrificing the aesthetics and feel of a larger yacht.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: "Made in Germany" standards result in a stiff, durable hull and premium interior finish.
• Versatile Draft: The lifting keel option opens up cruising grounds inaccessible to most 24-footers.
• Easy Handling: Simple sail plan and light displacement make it manageable for single-handed sailing.

Cons:

• Price Point: High initial cost compared to mass-produced French or Polish competitors.
• Limited Headroom: The low profile is stylish but necessitates a "crawling" interior experience for taller sailors.
• Weight Sensitivity: Performance and trailer legality are significantly impacted by excess gear and heavy outboard engines.