Island Packet 370/379 Information, Review, Specs

The Island Packet 370 emerged from a long lineage of proven cruising designs by Bob Johnson, who established Island Packet Yachts in 1979. Johnson's overarching vision was to craft sturdy, seakindly offshore cruising boats, a philosophy deeply ingrained in every Island Packet model. The 370, and its later iteration the 379 (from 2017-2019), represents decades of refinement in Island Packet's design and construction.

A hallmark of Johnson's design philosophy, and central to the Island Packet identity, is the exclusive "Full Foil Keel®". This integrated hull and keel design provides excellent directional stability, minimizes fouling, and critically, offers significant protection to the propeller and rudder from impact damage—a vital feature for offshore reliability. The hull and keel of the 370/379 are typically a one-piece, hand-laminated, solid fiberglass construction, incorporating triaxial knitted fiberglass for a strong and durable structure. Early models of the 370, produced from 2003 to 2007, listed a displacement of 21,000 lbs, while brochures from 2009 onwards cited a dry displacement of 23,800 lbs, indicating slight evolutions in the design or construction over its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Island Packet 370/379 exhibits sailing characteristics typical of a well-built, heavy displacement cruising yacht, prioritizing stability, comfort, and safety over outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 14.22 (calculated using the total calculated sail area), the 370/379 is not designed as a light-air flyer. Instead, this ratio suggests a boat that will be steady and powerful in moderate to strong winds, capable of making good progress offshore without being excessively tender.

Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 0.395 indicates a significant amount of ballast relative to its overall weight, contributing to its stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze. Owners consistently praise Island Packets for their comfortable motion in a seaway and their ability to handle heavy weather with confidence. The Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of approximately 314.69 firmly places the 370/379 in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This robust build means the boat provides a very comfortable ride, making it suitable for long passages where crew comfort is paramount. The cutter rig, a signature feature, allows for versatile sail plans and easier handling, particularly when sailing short-handed or in varying wind conditions. The full foil keel with a skeg-hung rudder also contributes to its renowned directional stability and predictable handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Island Packet 370/379 is celebrated for its spaciousness and robust, practical design, often feeling larger than its nearly 38-foot length overall suggests. With a maximum headroom of 6.42 feet, the interior provides ample standing room throughout, enhancing liveability.

Typically, the layout features a generous open saloon with abundant storage, providing comfortable seating and berths. The galley, often located to starboard at the base of the companionway steps, is described as efficient with significant stowage, including a large dry hold and provisions for keel-cooled refrigeration. This U-shaped galley design allows the cook to remain engaged with the salon activity. Across from the galley, to port, is typically a well-appointed head with a shower. Forward of the salon, a private V-berth cabin offers comfortable sleeping arrangements, while aft, there is usually a quarter berth or another private cabin, providing versatile accommodation for cruising couples or families. Throughout the interior, Island Packet's commitment to quality is evident in the general finish, often featuring warm wood trim and durable materials designed for long-term cruising. Well-placed handrails and wide side decks contribute to safety and ease of movement both below and on deck.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Island Packet 370/379 consistently laud its solid construction and its ability to handle challenging offshore conditions with remarkable comfort and safety. The seakindliness of the design is a recurring theme in owner reviews, with many reporting successful long-distance voyages and comfortable liveaboard experiences. The protected prop and rudder, a key design element, are frequently highlighted as a significant advantage for peace of mind, especially in remote cruising grounds. The extensive storage capacity, a practical consideration for cruisers, is also highly valued.

While owners generally praise the boat's strengths, common discussions in owner forums and reviews sometimes touch upon aspects inherent to heavy displacement cruisers, such as the boat not being a performance racer in light winds. However, this is largely understood and accepted by those who choose an Island Packet for its intended purpose. The strong and active community of Island Packet owners, exemplified by resources like IP Home Port and the Island Packet Yacht Owners Association, further enhances the ownership experience, providing valuable support and a network for shared knowledge.