Island Packet 27 Information, Review, Specs

Built by Island Packet Yachts, a company synonymous with rugged, comfortable, and supremely capable cruising sailboats, the IP27 embodies the builder's commitment to serious voyaging. From its inception, Johnson's aim was to deliver sturdy, seakindly offshore cruising boats, a principle that deeply influenced the design and construction of the 27 and cemented its place within the esteemed Island Packet lineage.

History and Design

The Island Packet 27's production run spanned from 1984 to 1992, during which 243 units were built. The vessel emerged from a period when founder Bob Johnson, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate, had already established his company, Traditional Watercraft Inc., and honed his skills in yacht design. Johnson's overarching design philosophy for the Island Packet line, including the 27, centered on his exclusive "Full Foil Keel®" concept. This integral keel design provides excellent directional stability, minimizes fouling, and offers significant protection to the propeller and rudder, features crucial for offshore reliability. The hull and keel are typically a one-piece, hand-laminated, solid fiberglass construction, incorporating triaxial knitted fiberglass, contributing to a strong and durable structure.

While specific "MkI vs. MkII" designations are not widely noted for the 27, the boat did see some ballast refinements and interior changes over its production life, reflecting a continuous evolution to enhance its comfort and functionality. These refinements ensured the 27 remained a well-regarded option in its class throughout its manufacturing period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Island Packet 27's design ratios underscore its identity as a heavy, stable cruiser rather than a light-air speedster. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.2, the IP27 is not optimized for blistering speed in light winds, but rather for steady progress and comfortable motion. Its ballast to displacement ratio of 0.375, coupled with a full-foil keel, contributes to good stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable breeze. However, a displacement to length ratio of over 560 indicates a very heavy boat for its waterline length of 24.25 feet, suggesting a robust build and a motion that prioritizes comfort over agility.

Anecdotal reports from owners and reviewers often characterize the Island Packet 27 as a solid and forgiving boat to sail. While its modern full keel provides spirited and powerful performance comparable to some deeper fin keel designs, sailing upwind is not considered its strongest suit, partly due to wide sheeting angles and the nature of its low-lift keel. Owners generally praise its directional stability, a direct benefit of the full keel, which also offers excellent protection from impacts to the rudder and propeller. While some describe its handling as less nimble in tight harbors due to its heavy displacement and long keel, its seakindliness in a seaway is consistently highlighted.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length, the Island Packet 27 is lauded for packing a surprising amount of cruising comfort and space into its interior. The layout typically features a forward V-berth, providing sleeping for two, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon usually consists of settees on either side, often converting to additional berths, with a drop-leaf table in the center for dining. The galley is generally located aft, equipped with essential amenities such as a sink, stove, and icebox, positioned conveniently for use at sea.

The interior benefits from Island Packet's commitment to quality construction and thoughtful design, featuring ample use of wood trim and solid cabinetry, which gives the cabin a warm and inviting feel. Storage is generally well-considered for a boat of its size, with lockers and shelves throughout. Ventilation is typically provided by opening ports and deck hatches. Owners frequently commend the well-appointed and spacious interior, making it a comfortable base for extended coastal cruises or even some offshore adventures.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Island Packet 27 frequently express deep satisfaction with their vessels, often forming dedicated communities such as the IP Home Port and the Island Packet Yacht Owners Association. The most commonly praised strengths include its robust, "built like a brick outhouse" construction, offering a profound sense of security in various sea conditions. Owners consistently laud its comfort underway and at anchor, and its reputation for being a reliable and seaworthy cruiser for its size. The solid resale value of the IP27 is also a frequently mentioned positive aspect.

Regarding weaknesses or common maintenance issues, some owners note that while the boat handles well in a breeze, the heavy displacement and long keel can make short-tacking or maneuvering in confined harbors more challenging. A recurring discussion point in owner forums concerns the chain plates, with some suggesting they can be a common problem requiring attention. However, overall sentiment points to a highly capable and enduring sailboat that continues to serve its owners well decades after its production.