Island Packet Yachts: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Island Packet Yachts are a popular choice among sailors, known for their durability and comfort. They were founded in 1979 by Bob Johnson.

One of the key factors to consider when buying an Island Packet Yacht is its size. The company offers a range of models, from the 350 to the 510, each with its own unique features.

Island Packet Yachts are built to withstand the rigors of offshore sailing, with a focus on stability and seaworthiness. Their designs have been influenced by the company's extensive experience in bluewater cruising.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting out, Island Packet Yachts offer a range of options to suit your needs and budget.

Island Packet Yachts has a rich history that spans over four decades, with the company founded in 1979 by Bob Johnson.

Their first sailboat, the Island Packet 24, was designed to be a high-performance cruiser that could withstand the rigors of offshore sailing.

Island Packet Yachts is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, with each boat built to exacting standards.

Their sailboats are designed to be comfortable and spacious, with features like large cockpits and plenty of storage space.

The company has a reputation for building boats that are both beautiful and functional, with a focus on creating a sense of community among owners.

Island Packet Yachts has a loyal following of owners who swear by the brand's quality and reliability.

Their sailboats are built to last, with many owners reporting high mileage without major repairs.

Island Packet Yachts has a network of dealers and service centers around the world, making it easy to find support and maintenance for your boat.

Their sailboats are designed to be easy to handle, even for solo sailors or those with limited experience.

Island Packet Yachts offers a range of sailboats to suit different needs and budgets, from the entry-level 250 to the luxurious 510.

Island Packet Yachts has a rich history of innovation and excellence, earning numerous industry awards over the years.

They've won seven Cruising World magazine "Boat of the Year" awards and three SAIL magazine "Best Boats" awards.

In 2019, the IP349 model took home Cruising World Magazine's "Domestic Boat of the Year" Award, and the IP439 model won the same magazine's "Best Full-Size Cruiser of the Year" Award in 2021.

Original owner and Naval Architect Bob Johnson received the 1999 "Industry Award for Leadership" from SAIL magazine.

The company has undergone changes in ownership, with Traditional Watercraft being acquired by Hake Yachts in 2016, and Darrell and Leslie Allen taking ownership in 2017.

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Island Packet Yachts has had a few owners over the years, but the current ones are Darrell and Leslie Allen, who took over in January 2017.

They're not new to the brand, having been dealers for Island Packet Yachts in San Diego, CA, for a long time.

Island Packet Yachts have a rich history of innovation and excellence, with a total of seven Cruising World magazine "Boat of the Year" awards under their belt.

The company's commitment to quality and design has been recognized by the industry, with three SAIL magazine "Best Boats" awards to their name.

In 1999, Bob Johnson, the original owner and Naval Architect, was awarded the "Industry Award for Leadership" by SAIL magazine.

The Island Packet brand has undergone some significant changes in recent years, with Traditional Watercraft being acquired by Hake Yachts in mid-April 2016.

This acquisition combined operations to build Island Packet, Blue Jacket, and Seaward yachts in the same facilities in Largo, Florida.

In January 2017, Darrell and Leslie Allen took ownership of the company, bringing new energy and vision to the brand.

Their focus was on reinvigorating the Island Packet brand by introducing a new model, the IP349, and allowing owners to customize certain aspects of their yacht.

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In 2005, the 48' model was a significant part of the company's lineup.

This model was designed to be a versatile and user-friendly option for customers.

It featured a sleek and modern design that appealed to a wide range of consumers.

The 48' model was available in several different configurations to suit various needs and preferences.

One notable aspect of the 2005 48' model was its impressive performance capabilities, which made it a popular choice for those who valued speed and efficiency.

The Island Packet Yachts brand has a rich history that spans several decades. Island Packet Yachts Older, from 1980, marks the beginning of the brand's journey.

The 1980s saw the introduction of Island Packet Yachts to the market, with production continuing until 2000. Island Packet Yachts 1981 - 2000 was a period of growth and development for the company.

Island Packet Yachts 2001 - 2005 saw the introduction of new models and designs, expanding the brand's offerings. This period was marked by innovation and experimentation.

Island Packet Yachts 2006 - 2010 continued to build on the success of previous years, with a focus on quality and performance. The brand's reputation as a leader in the industry grew during this time.

Island Packet Yachts 2011 - 2013 saw the introduction of new features and technologies, further enhancing the brand's offerings. This period was marked by a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

The Island Packet Yachts 2014 + range represents the brand's current offerings, with a focus on modern design and advanced technology. This period has seen the brand continue to evolve and adapt to changing market trends.

Island Packet Yachts are still around and thriving, with a presence in Florida where they continue to build sailboats.

Their product line includes the IPY 349, IPY 439, and the 42 MS models, which are part of their core offerings.

These models showcase the company's commitment to quality and innovation in sailboat design and manufacturing.

Island Packet Yachts has managed to stay afloat and continue producing high-quality sailboats over the years.

Island Packet yachts are known for their safe and seaworthy designs, but they're not built for speed. They're best suited for cruising in comfort and exploring shallow atolls.

The Island Packet 380, for example, has a 1.4m draught, which indicates it's not designed to be close-winded. It prefers to be sailed "full and by" with apparent wind angles of 50-55° for optimal performance.

Here are some key specifications for Island Packet yachts:

These specifications give you a general idea of what to expect from an Island Packet yacht.

The Island Packet 380's sturdy structure is a result of its unique construction process. This process involves bonding the bulkheads, structural webbings, bunks, and seats to the hull for added rigidity.

The headlining is a single moulding that's durable and easy to maintain. This design also provides excellent insulation and minimizes condensation.

The portlights are a testament to Island Packet's philosophy, featuring a stainless steel frame with threaded lock nuts and a hook to hold them open. They're simple, tough, and functional.

The deck of the Island Packet 380 feels secure, thanks to plenty of handholds. It's also designed with safety in mind, featuring twin bow rollers that point to its seaworthiness.

The interior cabinetry is well-designed, with a double sink and ample locker space. The top-loading fridge and freezer are bigger than most cockpit lockers.

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Your boat's stats are like its personality traits - they can tell you a lot about how it handles on the water and what kind of sailing experience you can expect. The Island Packet 380, for example, likes to be sailed "full and by" according to the manual.

The boat's stats can also give you clues about its performance. For instance, the Island Packet 380 makes a comfortable 5.5-6 knots upwind in a Force 4 and above when sailed at apparent wind angles of 50-55°. Some boats are designed to be close-winded, but the Island Packet 380 isn't one of them.

If you're looking to upgrade your boat's performance, consider investing in a slab reefing main instead of in-mast furling, and some crisp new sails. This can make a big difference in your sailing experience.

Here's a breakdown of the different Island Packet models by size:

The Island Packet 380 is superbly well adapted for tradewind sailing, exploring shallow atolls, and spending long periods of time afloat.

If you're in the market for an Island Packet Yacht, you'll want to consider the different types available. Island Packet Yachts by Type offers a range of options to suit various needs and preferences.

There are two main types of Island Packet Yachts: the Island Packet Cruiser and the Island Packet Estero.

The Island Packet Cruiser is a popular choice among sailors, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. It's perfect for those who want to explore the open waters while still enjoying the amenities of a well-equipped yacht.

The Island Packet Estero is a more laid-back option, designed for cruising and relaxation. Its sleek design and spacious interior make it ideal for families or couples looking for a tranquil sailing experience.

Here's a brief overview of the two types:

Island Packet Yachts are world-renowned for their exclusive Full Foil Keel that has provided a benchmark of stability, seaworthiness, and performance.

Their yachts are designed, engineered, and built to meet exacting requirements that prioritize safe, simple, predictable, and seakindly handling.

Island Packet Yachts are proudly American owned, with their yachts designed and built in Largo, FL, which has earned them numerous awards over the years.

Safety Over Sportiness is a key aspect of Island Packet's design philosophy. They prioritize robust construction standards over sleek aesthetics.

The Island Packet's solid laminate hull is a testament to this approach. It's heavier than a cored hull, but damage is easily repaired.

The Polyclad 2 gelcoat system below the waterline offers better protection against osmosis. This is a significant advantage for ocean sailing.

The single spreader rig is stayed with forward and aft lowers, which are terminated to three separate chain plates. This is a belts and braces solution that prioritizes safety.

The separate chain plates are welded and braced together with a framework that locks into the hull to deck joint before being glassed to the hull. This adds an extra layer of security.

This design approach may not make the boat the most agile, but it's a reassuring feature for those who venture into open waters.

Island Packet Yachts are world-renowned for their exclusive Full Foil Keel that has provided a benchmark of stability, seaworthiness, and performance.

Their Full Foil Keel is a game-changer for sailors, offering safe, simple, predictable, and seakindly handling. Island Packet Yachts are designed, engineered, and built to meet these exacting requirements, resulting in a truly exceptional sailing experience.

Island Packet Yachts has won numerous awards over the years, a testament to their commitment to excellence in design and construction. Their American ownership and Made-in-FL manufacturing process are a source of pride for the company.

Every model from Island Packet Yachts is designed with performance in mind, going beyond just boat speed to include safe and seakindly handling. This focus on performance has earned them a reputation as a leader in the sailing industry.

The Island Packet 380 is impressive in light airs, managing 3.5-4 knots in 6-8 knots breeze, which is valuable on long passages where you don’t want to reach for the throttle every time the wind drops.

The self-tacking staysail sheets are closer to the centreline, so in stronger winds you’d achieve better tacking angles from this. This design feature is a key contributor to the boat's impressive performance in light winds.

Thanks to her beam, the Island Packet 380 has plenty of form stability, keeping the angle of heel relatively low. This makes her a stable and comfortable ride in light winds.

The large rudder gripped the water even when a 30-knot squall hit, never threatening to round up. This is a testament to the boat's robust design and excellent handling capabilities.

In light airs, the Island Packet 380 is a great option for those looking for an affordable fin-keeler with plenty of space but that's easy to handle under power and sail.

Buying and selling an Island Packet Yacht can be a complex process, but understanding the basics can make a big difference. Island Packet Yachts are known for their high resale value, with some models holding up to 70% of their original price.

Island Packet Yachts have a strong owner community, which can make selling a yacht easier. In fact, the company's owner, Bob Johnson, is known for being involved in the sales process and providing support to owners.

If you're looking to buy a used Island Packet Yacht, consider purchasing from a reputable dealer or directly from an owner. This can help ensure the yacht has been well-maintained and is in good condition.

The cost of a new yacht can be a significant investment. Island Packet yachts cost $399k to $699k brand new.

If you're considering the Island Packet 349 model, be prepared to spend at least $399k for a brand new IPY 349.

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You may be able to find models in the brokerage market for considerably less than the new price, but it's essential to research and compare prices carefully.

The starting price of $399k for a brand new IPY 349 model is a significant consideration for anyone looking to purchase a yacht.

When putting a property up for sale, it's essential to price it competitively. A price that's too high can deter potential buyers, while one that's too low may leave you with little room for negotiation.

The asking price should be based on the property's market value, which can be determined by looking at recent sales of similar properties in the area. This is known as comparative market analysis.

A well-written listing description can make a big difference in attracting potential buyers. It should highlight the property's best features and any recent upgrades or renovations.

Including high-quality photos in the listing can also help showcase the property's features and make it more appealing to buyers. According to recent data, listings with photos are 300% more likely to be viewed than those without.

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If you're in the market for a Island Packet Yacht, you can find them in various locations across the United States.

Island Packet Yachts have a strong presence in popular boating states like Florida, where you can find them in marinas and yacht clubs.

In addition to Florida, you can also find Island Packet Yachts in other states such as Michigan, Washington, New York, California, and South Carolina.

Here are some specific locations where you can find Island Packet Yachts:

If you're in the market for an Island Packet Yacht, you'll want to consider the price range. Island Packet Yachts Under $125,000 are a great option for those on a budget.

You can find a range of models within this price range, from the Island Packet 350 to the Island Packet 380. These yachts offer a great balance of performance and affordability.

If you're willing to spend a bit more, Island Packet Yachts $125,000 - $200,000 offer a step up in quality and features. This price range includes models like the Island Packet 420 and the Island Packet 440.

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Island Packet Yachts $200,000 - $300,000 offer high-end amenities and sleek designs. Models like the Island Packet 460 and the Island Packet 470 fall within this price range.

If you're looking for the ultimate in luxury and performance, Island Packet Yachts $300,000 - $400,000 offer the best of the best. This price range includes models like the Island Packet 480 and the Island Packet 490.

For those who want the absolute crème de la crème, Island Packet Yachts $400,000 + offer unparalleled luxury and features. This price range includes models like the Island Packet 500 and the Island Packet 510.

Here's a summary of the price ranges and corresponding models: