Islander 34-2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The narrative of the Islander 34-2 begins in 1983, emerging from a company with a rich history rooted in California's burgeoning fiberglass era. Islander Yachts, initially an offshoot of Columbia Yachts, had cultivated a reputation for solid construction and comfortable interiors. The decision to tap Robert Perry, a designer known for his performance-oriented cruising yacht designs, for the Islander 34-2 underscored the company's intention to produce a vessel that was both enjoyable to sail and livable.

During this period, Islander Yachts, like many builders, faced various ownership changes and evolving market demands. The Islander 34-2's production run was relatively short, with only 16 units reportedly built before Islander Yachts eventually filed for bankruptcy in 1986. Interestingly, the molds for the popular Islander 34 were later utilized by Nordic Yachts to create the Nordic 34, suggesting a continued appreciation for the underlying design. The "34-2" designation itself indicates a refinement or second iteration of an Islander 34 concept, distinguishing it from earlier models. The option of a shallow-draft wing keel, at 4.79 feet, also provided versatility for different cruising grounds, contrasting with the standard fin keel's 6.17 feet draft.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 34.33 feet and a waterline length of 28.0 feet, the Islander 34-2, designed by Robert Perry, is characterized as a light sailboat with good performance attributes. Her calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.6 suggests a balanced performer, capable of moving well in moderate winds without being overly sensitive in heavier conditions. The boat's displacement of 9,656 pounds and a ballast of 3,771 pounds result in a ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 39%. This indicates a reasonably stiff and stable vessel, capable of standing up to a decent amount of sail area.

Further emphasizing its performance orientation is a displacement-to-length ratio of about 196. This places the Islander 34-2 in a lighter-displacement category for its length, contributing to its "good performer" reputation and a hull speed of 7.09 knots. Owners and reviewers often note that the Islander 34-2 handles well, offering a responsive helm and a comfortable motion, making it suitable for both spirited day sailing and longer coastal passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed specifications for the interior headroom of the Islander 34-2 are not readily available in the provided data, the design typically prioritizes efficient use of space for a vessel of its size. The Islander 34-2 generally features an interior layout designed for comfortable cruising, often including an aft head and a private aft cabin. This "two-cabin layout" allows for accommodation for approximately four people, providing a degree of privacy often sought in cruising boats.

Information gathered from various sources suggests a practical and functional arrangement, with areas for a salon, galley, and sleeping berths. Reviewers and owners have described interiors that are well-finished, with some examples featuring refinished wood, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. While specific details on material quality and ventilation would typically depend on individual boat care and upgrades over the decades, the general ethos of Islander Yachts was to build comfortable and robust vessels, which would extend to their interior fit-out.