Show 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Show 24 is defined by its IOR-influenced hull shape, featuring a relatively wide beam of approximately 2.70 meters and a deep fin keel. This configuration provides a high degree of initial stability, allowing the boat to carry its sail area effectively even as the breeze freshens. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the performance end of the cruiser-racer spectrum, the vessel is known for its agility in light airs—a necessity for Mediterranean sailing—yet it remains surprisingly composed when caught in a blow.

Handling is characterized by a high degree of "feel" through the tiller. Owners and historical reviews from Italian nautical archives suggest that the boat tracks well upwind, though like many IOR designs, it can become lively on a broad reach in heavy seas due to the pinched stern sections typical of the era. The masthead sloop rig is simple and robust, often paired with a large genoa that provides the primary driving force. The ballast-to-displacement ratio, which typically hovers around 35-40%, ensures that the Show 24 feels stiffer and more "sea-kindly" than many modern lightweight day sailers of similar length.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance pedigree, Alain Jézéquel managed to incorporate a surprisingly functional interior within the Show 24's modest footprint. The layout is a classic example of efficient European design, typically featuring four berths: a V-berth in the bow and two longitudinal settees in the main cabin that double as single bunks. The use of a structural inner liner (or "contromuffa") was an advanced technique for Barberis at the time, providing a clean, finished appearance while adding structural rigidity to the hull.

The headroom is limited—standard for a 24-footer—but the generous beam creates a sense of lateral space that prevents the cabin from feeling claustrophobic. Most units were equipped with a small, slide-out or fixed galley block and a marine head tucked discreetly under the forward V-berth. Over its production run, Barberis maintained a consistent interior aesthetic using mahogany or teak veneers, though some "Special" editions featured minor variations in cabinetry to accommodate different racing or cruising priorities. The Show 24 was the entry point for a family of siblings that included the highly successful Show 27, the Show 29, and the legendary Show 34, all of which shared the same design language of performance-first interiors.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Show 24 and its larger siblings gained significant traction in the 1980s through the "Show Cup," a dedicated racing circuit in Italy that showcased the speed and build quality of the Barberis fleet. While it does not have the cinematic footprint of larger yachts, the Show 24 is frequently featured in Italian nautical literature as a foundational vessel for a generation of sailors. The design work of Alain Jézéquel for this model is officially documented within the Alain Jézéquel Design Portfolio, where it sits alongside his more famous Half-Tonner designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Show 24 with a focus on structural longevity, as these boats are now entering their fourth or fifth decade of service.

• Osmosis: Like many Mediterranean boats built in the early 1980s, the Show 24 is susceptible to osmotic blistering if the gelcoat was not properly maintained or if the boat has sat in warm water for extended periods. A thorough moisture meter test of the hull is mandatory.
• Mast Step Compression: The deck-stepped mast relies on an internal compression post. Over time, moisture can seep into the wooden core of the deck at the mast base, causing the laminate to soften and the mast to "sink" slightly, leading to rigging tension issues.
• Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder is prone to developing play in the bushings. Buyers should check for excessive movement or "clunking" while the boat is in the water, as replacing these components can be a labor-intensive task.
• Chainplate Sealing: The IOR-style rig puts significant tension on the shroud chainplates. Inspect the interior bulkheads where the chainplates are through-bolted for signs of water ingress or "tea-staining" (rust streaks), which can indicate weakened structural timber.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for Show 24 enthusiasts is the Barberis Owners Group, which operates largely through Italian-language forums and social media clusters. While there is no centralized international "class association" for the 24 today, technical support is often found through the broader community of Barberis owners who share knowledge across the "Show" model range. Owners frequently refer to the technical archives of Italian sailing magazines for original sail plans and tuning guides.

The Verdict

The Show 24 is a stylish, performance-oriented classic that offers an engaging sailing experience far superior to many of its contemporary "caravan" style cruisers. It is an ideal choice for a sailor who values helm feedback and aesthetic lines over standing headroom and modern luxuries.

Pros:

• Excellent light-wind performance and agility.
• Sturdy construction from a prestigious Italian shipyard.
• Timeless, aggressive Jézéquel design.
• High stability-to-weight ratio for its class.

Cons:

• Limited headroom for extended cruising.
• Susceptibility to deck core moisture issues.
• Interior volume is sacrificed for the tapered IOR hull shape.
• Aging electrical and plumbing systems usually require a full refit.