Big Fish (Island Packet) Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Island Packet Big Fish began in 2006. Unlike Island Packet's larger, full-keeled cruising yachts, the Big Fish was developed with a philosophy centered on simplicity and user-friendliness. The design goal was to create a sailboat that was "easy in every sense of the word," from its setup to its handling. This aligns with Island Packet's overarching ethos of building sturdy vessels, albeit applied to a smaller, more accessible platform. While the builder is celebrated for its heavy-duty, offshore-capable construction in its main line of yachts, the Big Fish brought that quality and attention to detail to a compact, recreational sailboat. The Big Fish's construction features a solid fiberglass hull and deck, ensuring durability. There is no information suggesting significant variations or different marks during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Given its length overall of 16.58 feet, the Island Packet Big Fish is a small, performance-oriented day-sailor, and traditional performance ratios typically applied to larger cruising yachts are not directly relevant. Instead, its design emphasizes simplicity and responsiveness. Equipped with a lateen rig featuring a reported sail area of 114 square feet, the Big Fish sports a substantial sail for its size, which contributes to its lively performance. It utilizes a daggerboard keel, providing a variable draft ranging from a mere 0.33 feet with the board up to 3.33 feet when fully extended. This allows for easy launching and beaching, while the deeper draft offers improved upwind performance and stability when sailing. Owners often note its intuitive handling, describing it as "easy to sail and handle," making it an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a hassle-free sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

As a 16.58-foot day-sailor, the Island Packet Big Fish does not feature enclosed interior accommodations in the traditional sense. Instead, it is designed around an open and spacious cockpit, which is noted for being generously sized. This layout maximizes space for crew and allows for comfortable day-sailing without the complexities of a cabin or extensive living quarters. The hull's construction is solid fiberglass, offering a durable and low-maintenance finish. While larger Island Packet models are known for their extensive storage and intricate interiors, the Big Fish focuses on providing a functional and uncluttered space for immediate sailing enjoyment. There is no reported headroom or dedicated berths, underscoring its role as a spirited recreational boat for short excursions.