Sailing Performance & Handling
The Vivacity 24 is defined by its Alan Hill pedigree, leaning toward seaworthiness and predictable handling rather than outright speed. With a displacement of approximately 3,800 lbs and a healthy ballast ratio, the vessel is notably stiff, a trait often highlighted by the Vivacity Alacrity Owners Association in their technical archives. The hull features a relatively high displacement-to-length ratio, which ensures a kindly motion in a chop, though it may struggle in very light airs due to its wetted surface area, particularly in the twin keel version.
Tracking is generally excellent, aided by a transom-hung rudder that provides high leverage for the helm. Owners often report that the fin keel version offers superior pointing ability and reduced leeway, making it the preferred choice for those sailing in deep-water environments like the Mediterranean or the US East Coast. Conversely, the twin keel version, while slightly less efficient upwind, allows the boat to remain upright on the sand, a massive advantage for tidal estuary exploration. Under power, most original units were fitted with small inboard petrol or diesel engines, though many have since been converted to high-thrust outboards mounted on the transom.
Interior Comfort & Variations
For a vessel of its era and length, the Vivacity 24 offers an interior that feels remarkably expansive. The design utilizes a "near-full" standing headroom of approximately 5' 8" to 5' 10", a significant upgrade over the 650 model. The layout typically features five berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, a dinette in the main saloon that converts to a second double, and a single quarter berth extending aft on the starboard side.
Materials used in the cabin reflect the practical British manufacturing of the 1970s, utilizing a mix of molded GRP liners and teak or mahogany trim to soften the aesthetic. The galley is generally positioned to port, featuring a two-burner stove and a small sink. One of the most significant selling points of the 24 over its smaller siblings is the inclusion of a separate, enclosed head compartment situated between the main cabin and the forepeak, providing a level of privacy rarely found in sub-25-foot cruisers of that vintage. While the Vivacity 24 didn't see the same prolific cabin variations as the later Jaguar series (the rebranded Catalina designs), minor changes in galley positioning and locker configurations can be found between early and late production runs.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the Vivacity 24 with the understanding that these vessels are now nearly half a century old. While the hulls are over-engineered by modern standards, specific "gotchas" have emerged in the owner community:
- Deck Delamination: Like many GRP boats of this era, the Vivacity 24 uses a cored deck (often balsa or foam). Moisture ingress through poorly bedded deck hardware can lead to soft spots. Pay close attention to the area around the mast step and the chainplates.
- Keel Bolt Integrity: On twin keel models, the stresses of drying out twice a day can lead to fatigue around the keel stubs. Inspect the internal floors and the keel bolts for signs of weeping or rust staining.
- Window Leaks: The original aluminum-framed windows are prone to seal failure. This is often the primary cause of interior woodwork rot and should be checked for evidence of water tracking down the cabin sides.
- Chainplate Reinforcement: The attachment points for the shrouds are a known high-stress area. Some owners recommend reinforcing the backing plates if the boat is to be used in heavy weather.
- Osmosis: Early 1970s Russell Marine builds used orthophthalic resins, which are susceptible to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural, a survey should confirm the hull's moisture levels.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support and historical data is the Vivacity Alacrity Owners Association. This group maintains an extensive library of original manuals, sail plans, and modification guides. Because the boat shares many DNA markers with the Alacrity 19 and the Vivacity 21, the community is broad and active, often organizing rallies in the UK's East Coast and South Coast waters.
The Verdict
The Vivacity 24 remains one of the most accessible "true" cruisers on the second-hand market. It bridges the gap between a trailer-sailer and a permanent-mooring yacht, offering enough comfort for a family of four to spend a weekend aboard without feeling cramped.
Pros:
- Exceptional Headroom: Rare for a 24-foot boat of this vintage.
- Versatile Keel Options: The twin keel version is ideal for tidal/shallow water sailors.
- Robust Build: Solid fiberglass hull construction that ages well if maintained.
- Enclosed Head: A major privacy upgrade over smaller pocket cruisers.
Cons:
- Aging Systems: Original engines and wiring will likely require total replacement.
- Weight: At nearly 2 tons, it is not an easy boat to trailer or launch without professional equipment.
- Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement and Alan Hill hull shape are not optimized for racing or light winds.
