Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 24.2

A former Jeanneau pocket cruiser, 7.3 m overall, built in France to a Fauroux design for small crews who want simple sailing and easy launching.

Jeanneau no longer builds the Sun Odyssey 24.2, but she's worth a look if you want a small yacht you can launch easily and sail without fuss. She came from the same line of thinking as the Tonic, one of the most successful boats Jeanneau ever sold, and she was drawn by Fauroux and built in France.

There were a few versions to choose from. Some have a centreboard, others a full keel, and the engine could be either inboard or outboard, so it's worth checking which one you're looking at. She measures 7.3 m overall on a 7.2 m hull, draws 1.1 m and is rated for a maximum of 4 people.

The cockpit is roomy and sheltered, and there's nothing in the way when you want to get to the swim platform at the stern. Up forward, the hatch gives you a clear view ahead from inside.

That same hatch lets a good amount of daylight below, where the teak furniture gives the cabin a warm feel. There's a real double berth, two more berths forward, a sensibly laid out galley and a washroom with a toilet. She carries 56 l of fresh water, enough for a weekend away for a small crew.