Island Packet 320 Information, Review, Specs

The Island Packet 320 was introduced in 1998, continuing the builder's legacy of crafting yachts designed for adventurous lifestyles, with production concluding in 2002. Bob Johnson, the chief designer for Island Packet Yachts, brought his strong engineering background to the creation of the 320, adhering to his core philosophy of designing sturdy, seakindly offshore cruising boats. This model, like others from the brand, features the exclusive "Full Foil Keel®" with a protected prop and rudder, a signature design element fundamental to its legendary status. This full keel design not only enhances directional stability, crucial for offshore reliability, but also minimizes fouling and offers significant protection against impact damage to the keel, rudder, and propeller., 7] The hull and keel are constructed as a one-piece, hand-laminated, solid fiberglass structure, incorporating triaxial knitted fiberglass, resulting in a strong and durable vessel., 10] While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not noted for the 320, Island Packet models are generally subject to specification changes during their production life.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Island Packet 320 is characterized by its stable and predictable sailing performance, aligning with its design as a dedicated cruiser rather than a performance racer. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.80, the 320 is configured for steady progress and comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than exceptional light-air performance, which was not a primary design objective. Its high Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.44 indicates excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to strong winds and providing a secure feel on passage. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 306, signifies a heavier, more traditional cruiser, contributing to its comfortable motion and seakindly nature. The hull speed is a modest 6.96 knots, reflecting its design priority for robustness and safety over outright speed. Owners frequently describe the 320 as a reliable cruiser that handles well, particularly appreciating its directional stability provided by the full keel.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Island Packet 320 is designed with comfort and functionality for extended cruising in mind. While specific headroom is not detailed in the provided data, Island Packet yachts of this era are known for their well-thought-out and user-friendly interior designs. The boat features a molded interior grid support and cabin sole, reflecting the brand's commitment to robust construction. Typically, the layout includes a comfortable forward cabin, often serving as the owner's stateroom. The main salon, galley, and head are arranged to maximize living space and storage, a crucial aspect for any cruising vessel. Island Packet's refined design approach ensures that interior linings do not unduly limit access to the hull, simplifying maintenance. The general finish quality typically features extensive use of interior materials, often incorporating warm wood tones and solid construction, indicative of the brand's focus on durable and aesthetically pleasing living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Island Packet 320 express uniform enthusiasm for their vessels. They consistently praise the boat's solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and overall bluewater capability. Many owners report few problems with the reliable Yanmar engines typically installed in these models. The strong and active community surrounding Island Packet yachts, facilitated by resources like IP Home Port and the Island Packet Yacht Owners Association, further reinforces the satisfaction derived from owning one of these boats, offering a wealth of shared knowledge and support., 2, 8, 14] While not designed as a racing boat, its strengths lie in its reliability, safety, and comfort, making it a highly regarded choice among dedicated cruisers.