Magic Bus

A Melges 24 sails with much faster boats shortly after the start of a Round Saltspring Island Race. ©johncameorn.ca

The ‘tiny’ Magic Bus heads into some heavy traffic during a Round Saltspring Island race.

This iconic 24 foot boat design is a favourite among racing sailors as it sails competitively with much larger and (even) more expensive boats.


The Melges 24 sails very well in all conditions; including light air. The thrills only increase when the breeze comes on and the boat is in its happy place: planing conditions. —KC Shannon

Note: a sailboat normally moves through the water, but if the conditions allow, some racing sailboats begin to ride across the surface of the water (hydrodynamic lift) at a much, much faster speed. Sailors call this planing. And it’s like magic.

By