Our North American RL 24's (NA RL24's) are a rare breed!
RL Yachts America was started in 1980 and went bankrupt in 1983. There appear to be about 120 remaining NA RL24's (compared with about 500 Australian RL 24's).
For those of us with other small sailboat experience, the difference in quality between most other mass produced trailer sailors and the NA RL 24 is quickly apparent. In everthing from the keel winch (a massive casting) to it's weather handling abilities our NA RL 24's are clearly made for some serious sailing.
When initially produced in 1980, the NA RL 24 was very similar to its Austrailian cousin. Both were the two window version with a deep well at the bow. In 1982 many modifications were made to the RL24 to better suit it to its North American customers.
As this North American tab on the website is further developed, the specific differences will be explained, as well as many examples of North American boats will be presented.
Stay tuned!
Ernie (Co-owner of Kula)
8/2021
