I’ll be the voice of dissension here.
I haven’t seen the new 24. However, I had the chance to check out the 22 at the VA Beach boat show.
I would describe the fit and finish of the boat as cheap at best, sloppy at worst. The wire rigging is typically crappy and will lead to the exact same type of electrical gremlins that so many people on here have experienced. The bilge was absolutely filthy for a new boat, and the installation of the pickup was decidedly sub-par. The latches, fittings, and overall deck hardware seemed cheap and flimsy. Access to pretty much everything was difficult, labeling was nonexistent, and the overall effect was underwhelming.
As the salesman freely admitted, the 22 and 24 were specifically launched by Parker to be cheap production models that they can get out the door quickly. The issue with the 21 and 23DV models was that they were reportedly very difficult boats to build, which is not surprising given the fact that Parker’s roots are in building a high quality, hand built boat. That apparently doesn’t square well with the new corporate owner’s desire to pump out assembly line boats to maximize profits.
It’s a shame to see, but it is what it is. I will say that the “legacy” models that they had at the show, appeared to have the normal level of Parker fit, finish and function that we’re used to seeing. Only time will tell if those models will remain high quality or be subject to the same degree of cheapening as the new ones.
I’ll say that I was far more impressed by the Pair Customs models located immediately adjacent to the Parker displays. If I was in the market for a new 21 or 24, that’s where I’d be going. They offer a 21DV with a full transom and Armstrong bracket that was a very impressive looking boat.
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