Island Packet Yachts Review

Summary

The current CEO and owner of Island Packet Yachts, Bob Johnson, founded his company as Traditional Watercraft, Inc., in 1979 after he left a job at Endeavour Yachts. He bought the molds for the Bombay Express boat from the bankrupt Bombay Trading Company and changed the design to build the first “Island Packet.” The company expanded manufacturing in the United States throughout the 1980’s and is located today in Largo, Florida. In 1989, Island Packet became international, gaining dealerships in both England and Japan. Island Packet introduced the SP Cruiser, its first motorsailor, in 2006, as well as its first trawler, the PY Cruiser. Island Packet boats are known for the Full Foil Keel, a design first introduced in 1983, an exclusive 3-year warranty, knitted laminates, a moderate draft, and an exclusive gelcoat process. The sailboat line includes several boats from 36 feet to 52 feet. The Estero starts the line with a length of 36’5”, sail area of 708 sq. ft., and auxiliary power of 40 hp. At the other end of the line, the Island Packet 485 is 52’ 2’ long and features a very large living area, extra storage, a large aft deck, wide side deck and recessed foredecks, spacious forward and aft cabins, gourmet galley, and navigation center. The Island Packet power trawler is called the PY Cruiser and has unique twin cockpits. Self righting and certified for Category “A” – Ocean standards, it is known for its safety features. Standard design on this boat includes wide side decks, recessed foredeck, and a patented anchor roller. Island Packet now has dealers across the United States, in Canada, and in Europe, Australia, and the Virgin Islands.

Pricing

Prices on new models vary according to dealer location, and could depend on changes in current models, and are available by request from the dealer or on the website. Used models range from $27,000 for an IP26 MK I, $155,00 for a 1997 IP350, $339,500 for a 2001 IP420, and up to $624,135 for 2005 IP485.

Pros

• Full Foil Keel.
• Good company support.
• Comfort.
• Safety.

Cons

• Possible tank problems.
• Some models may be slower than comparable size boats of other brands.

Featured Models

Sailboats: Estero, IP370, SP Cruiser, IP460, IP465, IP485, Powerboats: PY Cruiser.

Conclusion

Island Packet Yachts specializes in sailboats from 36 ft. to 52 ft. long, from family friendly boats to large luxury boats. They also manufacture a power boat, the PY Cruiser, with luxury features. The company has maintained a reputation for building comfortable and safe boats featuring their Full Foil Keel. They maintain an owners’ web site and are known for strong company support of their products. Owners are generally well satisfied with their purchases and willing to help newcomers choose among models. A widespread network of dealers makes their boats available in most parts of the United States and in several foreign countries.