Tamarisk 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tamarisk 24 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, designed to feel significantly larger and more stable than its 24-foot length suggests. Because of its long keel and substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, the boat exhibits excellent directional stability, or "tracking," which allows it to hold a course with minimal helm correction. Unlike modern fin-keel yachts that pivot quickly, the Tamarisk 24 is deliberate in its maneuvers, requiring a proactive approach to tacking, particularly in light winds where the momentum of the heavy hull is necessary to carry it through the eye of the wind.

Under its traditional gaff rig—often featuring a tan-colored mainsail, staysail, and jib—the boat excels in reaching and off-the-wind sailing. The ability to carry a large amount of sail area low down provides power without excessive heel. In a blow, the Tamarisk 24 is famously "seakindly," a term used by many owners to describe its predictable motion and ability to punch through coastal chops that would leave lighter boats bouncing. While it is not a "pointing" machine and will not match the upwind angles of a Bermudan rig, it offers a secure, upright sailing experience that is ideal for coastal exploration and single-handed cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest 24-foot footprint, the Tamarisk 24 utilizes its high freeboard and wide beam to create a surprisingly functional living space. The interior typically features a traditional four-berth layout: two full-length settees in the main saloon and a double V-berth in the forward cabin. For a boat of this era and style, the headroom is notable, often cited as being close to five feet ten inches, which is rare for a classic "small" yacht.

The craftsmanship inside usually reflects its British heritage, with extensive use of teak or mahogany joinery that complements the traditional exterior. The galley is typically compact, situated near the companionway for ventilation, featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink. Variations of the Tamarisk hull exist; while the 24 is the most prolific, David Feltham also designed the smaller Tamarisk 22 and the significantly larger, more ocean-capable Tamarisk 29. The 29-foot sibling offers standing headroom and a separate heads compartment, whereas the 24 often utilizes a "heads under the V-berth" arrangement to maximize the feeling of space in the saloon.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Tamarisk 24, the primary focus should be on the integrity of the rig and the age of the GRP hull. As many of these vessels were built in the 1970s and 80s, buyers should look for:

• Rigging Hardware: The gaff rig involves more moving parts than a standard sloop, including gaff jaws, blocks, and several halyards. Check for wear on the wooden spars (if equipped) or corrosion on the stainless steel fittings.
• Keel Integrity: Since the boat features a long encapsulated keel, any signs of "star crazing" or impact damage at the leading edge should be professionally surveyed to ensure the ballast hasn't shifted or allowed water ingress.
• Chainplates: Given the heavy loads of a gaff rig, the chainplates where the shrouds meet the deck are high-stress areas. Inspect the interior bulkheads for signs of water leakage or wood rot around these mounting points.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Tamarisk 24s were fitted with small inboard diesels (often Yanmar or Bukh). Due to the boat's age, ensure the engine mounts and the stern gland are in good condition, as access can be tight in the traditional hull shape.

Community & Resources

The Tamarisk 24 is a staple within the Old Gaffers Association, an organization dedicated to the preservation and racing of gaff-rigged vessels. Owners often participate in OGA rallies across the UK and Europe, sharing technical advice on maintaining traditional rigs. Additionally, the boat shares a design DNA and community overlap with Cornish Crabbers, another prominent builder of GRP traditionalists, often leading to shared resources regarding parts and sailmaker specifications.

The Verdict

The Tamarisk 24 is an ideal vessel for the sailor who loves the "golden age" of yachting but prefers the reliability of modern materials. It is a sturdy, forgiving, and beautiful boat that turns heads in any harbor.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and heavy-weather performance for its size.
• Timeless aesthetic that maintains value among classic boat enthusiasts.
• Surprising interior volume and headroom for a 24-foot traditional hull.

Cons:

• Limited upwind performance compared to modern Bermudan rigs.
• The gaff rig requires more "string-pulling" and physical management than a simple sloop.
• Slow in light airs due to high wetted surface area and heavy displacement.