Ontario: Challenger Yachts ~ Challenger 24 7.4 (Canadian Built)

[DistortedAxis]

Hi all,

Still searching for a that boat. Jobs, budget, and locations have changed in the past couple years so too have the search requirements. Unfortunately, I've had to downsize significantly so the budget or time for a 30+ ft sailboat is simply no longer feasible. But the dream is still there...

That said, I'm currently living just outside of Oakville Ontario and looking for a weekend crusier for the Great Lakes. Also very interested in the Trent Severn Waterway as we have a Cottage on Gerogian Bay near Manitoulin island with a mooring so the requirements are now for a boat with minimal draft.

My search has brought to my attention a 24' Pocket Cruiser -- A 1978 Challenger 24. Seems to be in good shape and affordable enough to fit my budget. Wondering if anyone has anything to say about this boat (good or bad?)

--Specs--
Hull Type: Fin Keel
LOA: 24.33 ft. / 7.42m
LWL: 22.17 ft. / 6.76m
Beam: 8.17 ft. / 2.49m
DraftMax:3.42 ft. / 1.04m
Displacement: 4000 lbs./ 1814 kgs.
Ballast: 2090 lbs. / 948 kgs.
Water Tank: 10 gals. / 38 ltrs.
Designer: Alex McGruer Builder Challenger Yachts Ltd. (CAN) Construction Material: Fiberglass Production Start 1973
Rig Type: Masthead Sloop
Mast Height: from DWL 32.75' / 9.98m
Listed Sail Area: 230 sq.ft. / 21.37 m2
Fore Sail Area: 139.50 sq.ft. / 12.96 m2 I 30.00 ft. / 9.14m J 9.30 ft. / 2.83m P 24.40 ft. / 7.44m E 9.30 ft. / 2.83m
Sail to Displacement Ratio: 16.11
Maximum Hull Speed 6.31 kts.
Capsize Screening Formula: 2.06
Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D): 14.6 (Cruiser)
Displacement/Length (D/L): 163.88 (Light Displacement)
Motion Comfort Ratio: 15.43

[bljones]

As pocket cruisers go, the Challenger 24 is a good one, designed by a guy who knows how to pack a lot into a small space, alex macgruer. Like most of his designs, she is not a stellar performer in light air, and no pointer, but she's a solid boat with decent accomodations. you could do worse.

[FrostKat]

I just bought an early version. 23 feet 9 inches. Make sure that you inspect the rudder post fittings. Have been known to fall off but luckily you have an outboard so you can get home.