Weekender 24 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Weekender 24’s performance is its Henry Scheel-designed hull and keel. At a time when deep-draft fins were the norm for performance, the Weekender 24 utilized a patented Scheel Keel, which features a wide, flared "winged" section at the bottom of a shallow foil. This design creates a high-pressure zone that increases lift and reduces leeway, allowing the boat to draw only 2 feet 9 inches while maintaining the tracking ability of a much deeper vessel.

With a displacement of approximately 4,500 pounds and nearly 40% of that weight (1,850 lbs) concentrated in the ballast, the boat is exceptionally stiff for its size. It handles the choppy conditions of the Chesapeake Bay with a "big boat" feel, resisting the hobby-horsing often found in lighter 24-footers. While it is not a racing machine, it is noted for its balanced helm and ability to remain upright in a blow. According to archival mentions of the Scheel design, the boat was engineered specifically for owners who required access to shallow gunkholes but refused to sacrifice the seaworthiness associated with a fixed-keel design.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its modest length, the Weekender 24 features a thoughtfully organized cabin designed for short-range cruising. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, followed by a small head area (often equipped with a chemical or portable toilet) and a compact galley. The use of mahogany or teak trim against the white fiberglass liners was a hallmark of the Annapolis-built units, providing a warmer aesthetic than many mass-produced competitors of the era.

The "Weekender" designation distinguished this model from the standard Tidewater 24, which featured a more traditional deckhouse and slightly different interior volume. The Weekender variant maximized cockpit space for social sailing while maintaining enough headroom (roughly 5 feet 2 inches) to make overnight stays feasible for a couple or a small family. Storage is found beneath the settees and the V-berth, though the shallow hull depth necessitated by the keel design means that stowage for heavy gear is limited compared to deeper-draft blue-water cruisers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tidewater Weekender 24 should focus their inspections on the specific age-related vulnerabilities of 1970s fiberglass construction.

1. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from this era, Tidewater used a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots, particularly around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Spongy sections indicate water intrusion that may require significant core replacement.
2. Scheel Keel Attachment: While the keel design is robust, the wide "wings" of the Scheel Keel can experience high leverage forces if the boat has been grounded hard. Inspect the keel-to-hull joint (the "smile") for signs of stress cracking or weeping rust from the keel bolts.
3. Rudder Bushings: The transom-hung or spade-mounted rudders on these models (depending on the specific production year) are prone to developing "slop" or play in the bushings. This can lead to a vibrating helm or reduced steering precision.
4. Rigging Age: Many of these vessels still carry original or decades-old standing rigging. Given the boat's stiffness, the rig can be subjected to significant loads; a thorough inspection of the swage fittings for hairline cracks is mandatory.

Community & Resources

While Tidewater Boats of Annapolis does not have a formal manufacturer-supported association today, owners often congregate within broader Henry Scheel design communities. Technical discussions regarding the specific nuances of the Scheel Keel are frequently found in archives associated with the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and regional sailing associations in Annapolis, where the boat’s history is most deeply rooted.

The Verdict

The Tidewater Weekender 24 is a connoisseur’s pocket cruiser, offering a blend of naval architecture pedigree and practical shallow-water utility that is difficult to find in modern production boats.

Pros:

• Exceptional Draft: The 2'9" draft is ideal for exploring shallow bays and tidal creeks.
• Renowned Designer: Henry Scheel’s involvement ensures a level of hull efficiency and aesthetic balance rarely seen in 24-footers.
• Sturdy Build: Heavily laid fiberglass and a high ballast ratio provide a secure, stable ride in coastal chop.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: The low profile of the "Weekender" deck limits standing room for taller sailors.
• Market Rarity: Since Tidewater Boats ceased production in 1977, finding these models on the used market can be difficult, and manufacturer support is non-existent.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Buyers must be prepared to address 45+ years of wear on balsa cores and original hardware.