Islander 21 Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 21 began production in 1965, a period when Islander Yachts, then part of the Wayfarer Yacht Corporation, was solidifying its identity following various ownership changes. The company, which had its roots in Joseph McGlasson's earlier wooden boat designs and his transition to fiberglass, was known for building durable fiberglass sailboats for the recreational market. Joseph McGlasson, a prominent figure in the early development of fiberglass production sailboats, was the designer behind the Islander 21. His design philosophy aimed to create a spacy hull for its size, offering more interior volume compared to many contemporary designs. While specific variations like a Mark I or Mark II are not widely documented for the Islander 21, the overarching design ethos of Islander Yachts during this era emphasized solid construction and practical layouts for cruising.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Islander 21, with its fin keel and spade rudder, is designed for responsive handling. With a length overall of 20.82 feet and a waterline length of 18.0 feet, she boasts a moderate displacement of 1,950 pounds, 1,000 pounds of which is iron ballast, contributing to her stability. Her masthead sloop rig provides a reported sail area of 215 square feet, giving her ample power for her size. Anecdotal reports suggest the Islander 21 handles well, offering a balanced feel at the helm and predictable behavior in varied conditions, making her a pleasant boat for day sailing and coastal exploration.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Islander 21 was designed to maximize interior volume, aiming to be more spacious than many comparable sailboats. While specific details on the full interior layout are not readily available in public databases, typical arrangements for pocket cruisers of this era would include a V-berth forward, a small galley area, and potentially a compact head. The general finish quality of Islander Yachts often featured robust fiberglass construction, which was characteristic of the builder's era. Storage would likely be limited but thoughtfully integrated, and ventilation would primarily rely on companionway openings and potential deck hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 21 generally appreciate its solid construction and seaworthiness for a boat of its size. The design by Joseph McGlasson, with its focus on a comparatively spacious hull, has been a recurring positive point. While extensive owner forums or common problem discussions specific to the Islander 21 are not widely aggregated, the overall reputation of Islander Yachts suggests that the 21 would share the brand's hallmarks of durability and a comfortable ride for its class.