Island Packet 44 Information, Review, Specs

The Island Packet 44 was in production from 1992 to 1996, a period during which Island Packet Yachts, under the guidance of founder and chief designer Bob Johnson, aimed to build the largest and best-equipped boats of their era. Johnson's foundational vision was consistently applied, emphasizing a design ethos focused on creating seakindly offshore cruising boats. A hallmark of the Island Packet line, and central to the 44's design, is the exclusive "Full Foil Keel®" which integrates the keel and provides exceptional directional stability, while also protecting the propeller and rudder from potential impact damage. 2, 4, Builder Article The hull and keel are constructed as a single, hand-laminated, solid fiberglass unit, incorporating triaxial knitted fiberglass, a method contributing to their renowned strength and durability. While the Island Packet 44 and its successor, the Island Packet 45, share a nearly identical hull design, the transition to the 45 brought subtle differences to the living and sailing experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Island Packet 44 is engineered for steadfast cruising rather than outright speed, offering steady, balanced sailing performance suitable for long passages. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.70, she possesses adequate sail power for her displacement, suggesting competent performance even in lighter air. Her Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of about 0.448 is quite high, indicating exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to strong winds and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 544.08 firmly places her in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, consistent with her design as a robust offshore vessel. The integrated full-foil keel further enhances directional stability, making her a predictable and easy boat to manage on extended voyages. The true cutter rig, a standard feature, facilitates versatile and easy sail handling, allowing for efficient adaptation to varying wind conditions. Furthermore, the spacious cockpit, nearly 8 feet long, is designed for functionality, with all lines led aft for convenient sail handling, furling, hoisting, and trimming.

Accommodations and Layout

Below decks, the Island Packet 44 offers a remarkably spacious and thoughtfully designed interior, catering to comfortable liveaboard cruising. The layout typically features two private staterooms and two heads, ensuring privacy and convenience for two couples or a family. The forward owner's stateroom is notably generous. With a commendable headroom of 6 feet 5 inches, the interior feels open and airy. The traditional long cabintrunk design incorporates numerous opening ports, ensuring ample light and excellent ventilation throughout the cabin spaces. The interior is characterized by the quality finishes and astute planning typical of Island Packet yachts, featuring plentiful handholds for secure movement underway.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Island Packet yachts, including the 44, consistently praise their solid construction, seakindliness, and comfortable motion, particularly in offshore conditions. The brand's emphasis on a heavy, broad-beamed hull contributes to a "kindly" ride that inspires confidence on long passages. While generally highly regarded, a common maintenance concern noted across various Island Packet models is related to the chain plates, which owners should be aware of for inspection and potential re-bedding. This speaks to the importance of routine maintenance for these long-lived vessels. The active and loyal community surrounding Island Packet yachts also highlights the high satisfaction derived from ownership, with resources like the Island Packet Yacht Owners Association providing support and shared experiences.