Island Packet 27 Information, Review, Specs

The design philosophy behind the 27 was centered on the "Full Foil Keel," a signature Island Packet feature that integrates the ballast and hull into a single unit. This avoids the structural vulnerability of bolt-on keels while providing a shallow draft of just 2' 8", making the boat an ideal candidate for thin-water cruising in the Bahamas or the Chesapeake Bay. While it was eventually succeeded by the Island Packet 29, the 27 remains a highly sought-after model on the secondary market for solo sailors and couples who prioritize safety and comfort over racing speed.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Island Packet 27 is characterized by a "seakindly" motion, a term often used by reviewers at Practical Sailor to describe boats that don't jerk or pound in a seaway. Its high displacement-to-length ratio and generous beam provide immense initial stability; the boat stands up well to its canvas and rarely requires early reefing. However, this stability comes at the cost of light-wind performance. With a heavy displacement of approximately 8,000 pounds, the 27 requires a stiff breeze to "get its shoulders into it" and find its groove.

Handling under power is predictable moving forward, but like most full-keel vessels, the 27 can be recalcitrant in reverse. The propeller is protected by the keel's trailing edge, which reduces the risk of fouling but increases prop walk. Owners frequently note that the boat tracks exceptionally well, allowing the helm to be left momentarily without the vessel wandering off course—a trait valued by single-handed sailors. The cutter-rigged versions or those equipped with the optional staysail provide more versatility in heavy weather, allowing the center of effort to be moved lower and further aft.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Island Packet 27 is where the boat’s 10' 6" beam truly manifests. Upon descending the companionway, the lack of a traditional fixed table creates an open, airy "great room" feel. Instead, Bob Johnson utilized a bulk-head mounted table that folds down, a design choice that would become a staple of the brand. This allows for a wide-open cabin during the day and a comfortable dining area for four at night.

The layout typically features a V-berth forward, which is surprisingly spacious for a 27-foot boat, and a large aft quarter berth that extends under the cockpit sole. The galley is U-shaped and located to starboard, featuring a deep sink and ample storage, while the enclosed head is located to port. Materials are traditional, dominated by teak joinery and a teak-and-holly sole, which provides a warm, classic aesthetic. While there were no major structural variations during its production, earlier units may differ from later ones in terms of portlight materials and interior upholstery patterns. The Island Packet 27’s predecessor, the IP 26, featured a slightly narrower beam and less refined interior ergonomics, making the 27 the more desirable "evolved" sibling of that hull lineage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Island Packet 27 with a specific checklist tailored to the brand's unique construction methods.

• Chainplates: The most critical inspection point is the chainplates. Island Packet glassed these 304 stainless steel plates directly into the hull structure. While this makes for a very strong rig, it makes inspection for crevice corrosion nearly impossible without cutting fiberglass. If there are signs of rust streaks or "bleeding" on the hull sides near the chainplate exits, a major and expensive repair may be looming.
• Aluminum Tanks: The fuel and water tanks are made of aluminum and are often foamed into place. Over decades, moisture can become trapped against the aluminum, leading to pinhole leaks. Replacing these tanks typically requires significant interior disassembly, making "dry bilges" a top priority during a survey.
• Deck Core: While Island Packet utilized "PolyCore" (a proprietary honeycomb-like material) in many areas, moisture can still migrate around improperly bedded deck hardware. A professional moisture meter test is recommended around the bowsprit and stanchion bases.
• The Bowsprit: The 27 features a prominent bowsprit. Over time, the wood or composite structure can develop soft spots or delamination where the forestay attaches. Ensure the bobstay and its fittings are free of corrosion.

Community & Resources

The Island Packet community is one of the most organized in the sailing world, providing a wealth of technical support for the 27. The most prominent resource is the Island Packet Yacht Owners Association, which hosts extensive technical forums, original brochures, and maintenance wikis. Additionally, the IP Home Port serves as a volunteer-run hub for owners to share cruising logs and modification ideas specifically for the older "classic" models like the 27.

The Verdict

The Island Packet 27 is an over-engineered pocket cruiser that offers the safety and livability of a much larger yacht. It is not a boat for those who enjoy "around the buoys" racing or light-air drifting, but for the cruiser who wants a reliable, shallow-draft home that can handle a surprise gale, it remains an elite choice in its size class.

Pros:

• Immense interior volume and 6' 1" headroom rarely found in 27-footers.
• Shallow draft of 2' 8" allows for exploration of gunkholes and tropical shallows.
• Exceptional build quality and heavy-weather tracking.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (under 10 knots).
• Difficult and expensive chainplate replacement if corrosion is present.
• Challenging maneuverability in reverse due to the full-keel design.