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Sailboat Specifications

Columbia 24 Challenger

Masthead Sloop · Fin Keel

Designed by J. Mcglasson · Built by Glass Laminates/Columbia Yachts (Usa) · First built 1962

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LOA 24.33 ft  ·  Beam 8.00 ft  ·  Displacement 3,930.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 288  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Columbia 24 Challenger Sailboat

Part of Columbia Yachts' extensive production line during the 1970s, this 24-foot sailboat represents the builder's focus on creating affordable family cruisers for weekend sailors and coastal enthusiasts. Columbia's reputation for solid fiberglass construction and practical layouts carried through to this model, making it an appealing choice for sailors seeking their first keelboat or a manageable day-sailer with overnight capabilities. The Challenger 24 features the classic styling typical of Columbia's designs from this era, with a moderate beam and traditional lines that prioritize stability and interior volume over racing performance. Like many Columbia models, it was designed with ease of handling in mind, making it suitable for small crews or single-handed sailing in protected waters and near-coastal environments. While detailed specifications remain limited, the boat's size and Columbia's design philosophy suggest it offers a practical cabin layout with basic amenities for short cruises. The construction quality that Columbia was known for means many examples remain active today, testament to the builder's focus on durability. For sailors interested in classic American production boats from the 1970s, the Challenger 24 represents an accessible entry point into Columbia's well-regarded lineup.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 24.33 ft / 7.42 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 18.00 ft / 5.49 m
Beam 8.00 ft / 2.44 m
Max Draft 3.33 ft / 1.01 m
Displacement 3,930.00 lb / 1,783 kg
Ballast 1,800.00 lb / 816 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 288
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer J. McGlasson
Builder Glass Laminates/Columbia Yachts (USA)
First Built 1962
Last Built 1968
Number Built 534
Related Sailboats Columbia 24 · Cal 24 · Dolphin 24 Ss · Greenwich 24 · Weekender 24
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Columbia 24 Challenger's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Columbia 24 Challenger has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.55. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Columbia 24 Challenger's comfort ratio?

The Columbia 24 Challenger has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 19.12. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Columbia 24 Challenger safe for offshore sailing?

The Columbia 24 Challenger has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.03. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Columbia 24 Challenger?

The theoretical hull speed of the Columbia 24 Challenger is 5.69 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Columbia 24 Challenger weigh?

The Columbia 24 Challenger has a displacement of 3,930.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 24.33 ft.

Who designed the Columbia 24 Challenger?

The Columbia 24 Challenger was designed by J. Mcglasson, first built in 1962.