The J/24 is a popular one-design keelboat designed by Rod Johnstone in 1977. It's known for its versatility and is widely used for cruising, racing, and day sailing1. Here are some key details about the J/24:

  • Length Overall (LOA): 24 feet (7.32 meters)

  • Waterline Length (LWL): 20 feet (6.10 meters)

  • Beam: 8.9 feet (2.71 meters)

  • Draft: 4 feet (1.22 meters)

  • Displacement: 3,100 pounds (1,406 kg)

  • Ballast: 950 pounds (431 kg)

  • Sail Area: 261 square feet (24.25 m²)

  • Spinnaker Area: 41.7 square meters (449 sq ft)

The J/24 is built predominantly of fiberglass with wood trim and features a fractional sloop rig. It has sleeping accommodations for four people, with a double "V"-berth in the bow cabin and two straight settees in the main cabin1. The galley is located on the starboard side just aft of the bow cabin, and the head is located just aft of the bow cabin on the starboard side, stowed under a table.

The J/24 is known for its excellent performance and is the world's most popular one-design keelboat class, with over 5,500 boats built and more than 50,000 people actively sailing in over 150 fleets across 40+ countries

The J/24 is highly regarded for its racing capabilities and has been a favorite among sailors for decades. Here are some key aspects that make it an excellent racing boat:

  • One-Design Class: The J/24 is a one-design class, meaning all boats are built to the same specifications, ensuring fair competition. This makes it ideal for competitive racing1.

  • Crew: The J/24 typically has a crew of 3 to 5 people, with a maximum combined weight limit of 400 kg (880 lbs). This allows for efficient teamwork and handling2.

  • Performance: The J/24 is known for its excellent upwind performance and balanced sailing. It can achieve respectable speeds even under mainsail alone1.

  • Maneuverability: Its maneuverability is a significant advantage, especially in crowded harbors and during tight racing situations.

  • Spinnaker: For downwind sailing, the J/24 can be equipped with a symmetrical spinnaker, enhancing its performance in light wind conditions.

  • PHRF Rating: The J/24 has a PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) average handicap of 174, which is competitive for its class.

The J/24 continues to be a popular choice for sailors who enjoy competitive racing and the camaraderie of one-design classes.