Design and Construction
The hull is solid fiberglass, with the heavy layup typical of Island Packet’s construction standards. Plywood-cored decks add stiffness, and the bulkheads are securely tabbed to the hull.
At the heart of the design is a full keel with a cutaway forefoot, an Island Packet signature that favors directional stability. It’s paired with a keel-attached rudder, which is less vulnerable to grounding damage than a spade rudder.
The 32 displaces 13,500 pounds and carries 5,950 pounds of lead ballast in its long-keel configuration. A 44 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio and a capsize screening value of 1.93 reflect a stability-first approach rather than the profile of a light-displacement racer.
Rig and Handling
The cutter rig divides 654 square feet of sail area into manageable pieces. The staysail helps balance the boat in heavy winds, while the genoa improves light-air performance. Across a wide range of wind strengths, the arrangement keeps sail handling manageable.
The original shaft-driven Yanmar diesel produces 27 horsepower and turns a fixed three-blade propeller. That propeller is a known limitation in light wind, and many owners have fitted feathering replacements to the heavy, simply arranged boat.
Rudder bearings can develop play with age. If they do, the keel-attached design reduces the risk of a catastrophic failure.
Accommodations
Below deck, the Island Packet 32 is arranged for extended cruising rather than weekend racing. The spacious saloon has an open layout, generous headroom, and plentiful storage. Numerous opening ports and hatches provide good ventilation, a particular strength in warmer climates.
The galley offers adequate counter space and a secure arrangement for use underway. A dedicated navigation station reinforces the boat’s bluewater intent. Sleeping space for a couple or small family includes a forward V-berth, an aft quarter berth, and convertible saloon seating.
Known Issues
Like many Island Packets, the 32 can develop cosmetic gelcoat crazing, though this rarely compromises structural integrity. Some owners also report moisture in the deck core, particularly around chainplates and hardware fittings—a common issue among boats of this vintage.
Rudder bearings may develop play as they age. As noted above, the keel-attached rudder limits the consequences of that wear.
Refits and Ownership
The 32’s heavy construction and simple design put many maintenance jobs within reach of a competent owner. Common upgrades include replacing the fixed-blade propeller with a feathering unit for slightly better light-wind performance, updating the navigation electronics, and re-bedding deck hardware to prevent leaks.
Many boats retain their original Yanmar diesels. Although these engines are reliable, older units may need major service or replacement.
The Verdict
The Island Packet 32 is a deliberately unflashy coastal and offshore cruiser. It trades speed for security, simplicity, and livability. Its full-keel hull, keel-attached rudder, and heavily built solid-fiberglass structure suit a couple or small family that values predictable handling more than racing sparkle. The cutter rig also keeps sail handling manageable across a wide range of wind conditions.
Pros
- Full keel with cutaway forefoot and keel-attached rudder for directional stability and protection from grounding damage
- Solid-fiberglass hull with a heavy layup and securely tabbed bulkheads
- Cutter rig with staysail and genoa for a balanced, manageable sail plan
- Practical cruising interior with a dedicated navigation station, secure galley, and good ventilation
- Simple systems that lend themselves to owner maintenance
Cons
- Cosmetic gelcoat crazing and possible deck-core moisture around fittings
- Rudder-bearing play with age
- Original fixed propeller limits light-wind performance
- Often-original Yanmar diesel may need major service or replacement
