Island Packet 26 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

The Island Packet 26 Mk II was produced from 1982 to 1984, evolving from the original Island Packet 26 Mk I, which itself was derived from the Bombay Express 26. This iteration represented a refined version of an already popular design, incorporating improvements to further enhance its overall appeal. Bob Johnson, the visionary founder of Island Packet Yachts, conceptualized these boats with a singular mission: to provide safe cruising vessels for adventurous sailors. During this era, Island Packet Yachts established its reputation for building reliable, full-keel yachts with a consistent commitment to core design principles. The company's hallmark "Full Foil Keel®" was central to its design philosophy, ensuring excellent directional stability and robust protection for the propeller and rudder. While the primary model featured a long keel with a maximum draft of 3.67 feet, a keel/centerboard version was also offered, allowing for a shallower minimum draft of 2.67 feet and a deeper maximum draft of 6.0 feet. The Island Packet 26 Mk II was ultimately succeeded by the significantly redesigned Island Packet 27 in 1984.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.05, the Island Packet 26 Mk II is generally considered a moderate performer. While not optimized for extreme light-air conditions—a characteristic sometimes noted for Island Packets generally—one review suggests it can perform better than 50% of similar sailboat designs in lighter winds. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.375 contributes to a stable and stiff feel on the water, providing a comfortable motion even in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of around 253 places her in the heavier, more traditional cruiser category for her size, aligning with Island Packet's design ethos for robust, comfortable family cruisers.

The Island Packet 26 Mk II features a cutter rig, a configuration popular for offshore sailing due to its ability to break the overall sail area into smaller, more manageable sails. Equipped with a long keel, the boat is renowned for its exceptional directional stability, offering a more predictable and steady course compared to vessels with fin keels. This design choice also provides crucial protection for the rudder and propeller, enhancing its offshore reliability. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat handles well and is an easy, smooth-riding sailing cruiser, further reinforcing its appeal as a dependable voyaging platform.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Island Packet 26 Mk II offers a remarkably functional and comfortable interior, characterized by its traditional and well-finished appointments. With a maximum headroom of 6.08 feet, the cabin feels surprisingly spacious for a boat of this length. The typical layout includes a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment to port and often a hanging locker opposite to starboard. The main salon features settees on both port and starboard, providing ample seating and converting into berths. Aft in the salon, a galley is usually situated to starboard, offering essential amenities for cooking while cruising. To port, a quarter berth often doubles as a navigation station, optimizing space. While specific details on materials can vary, Island Packet interiors are generally known for their quality wood trim and robust fiberglass components, reflecting the builder's commitment to durability and a classic aesthetic. Storage is typically well-integrated throughout the cabin, providing space for cruising gear, though careful planning is still essential on a boat of this size. Ventilation is usually provided by an overhead hatch in the forepeak and opening ports in the cabin, allowing for airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Island Packet 26 Mk II consistently express high satisfaction with their vessels, often praising the boat's solid construction and its ability to provide a comfortable motion in various sea states. Many consider it one of the foundational models that established Island Packet's reputation for building strong and reliable cruising yachts. The long keel and cutter rig are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, contributing to the boat's seakindliness and ease of handling, especially for those venturing offshore. While not a performance racer, owners appreciate its predictable behavior and robust build, which instills confidence on the water. As is common with many older vessels, some owners may face maintenance needs related to original systems or fittings, but the strong and active community surrounding Island Packet yachts provides a valuable resource for support and shared knowledge.