Island Packet 35 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Island Packet 35 is a heavy-displacement cruiser that prioritizes seakindliness over raw speed. With a displacement of approximately 17,500 pounds and a relatively high Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio, the boat is designed to carry significant stores for long-term cruising without losing its balance. The cutter rig is a standard feature, offering a versatile sail plan that allows owners to downshift easily as wind speeds increase. The stay-sail on a Hoyt boom (on later iterations) or a traditional club-foot setup provides excellent self-tacking capability, making the boat manageable for solo sailors or couples.

Under sail, the IP 35 is known for its "forgiving" nature. The Full Foil Keel provides a massive amount of lateral plane, which aids in tracking and reduces the tendency to hobby-horse in a head sea. However, this same design means the boat has a wider turning radius than a fin-keel equivalent and requires more wind—typically 10 to 12 knots—to truly come alive. While it may not point as high to weather as a performance cruiser, its ability to maintain momentum through a chop is frequently praised in editorial retrospectives. According to technical reviews from the era, the boat's moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio ensures that once the yacht is settled on a reach, it provides a stable, "cadillac-like" ride that minimizes crew fatigue.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Island Packet 35 was revolutionary for its time, utilizing the yacht's generous 12-foot beam to create a living space that feels significantly larger than its 35-foot LOA. The layout is centered around a traditional salon with a folding table that stows against the bulkhead, opening up the floor space. A standout feature is the "Island Packet" galley, which is deep and secure for cooking at sea, featuring ample refrigeration and storage.

Accommodation is divided between a forward V-berth and a surprisingly spacious aft cabin located to the starboard side. The inclusion of a dedicated aft cabin in a 35-foot boat was a major selling point in the late 1980s. The head is positioned forward, accessible from both the salon and the master cabin, creating a semi-ensuite feel. The materials used throughout—solid teak and high-quality veneers—give the interior a warm, traditional aesthetic that has aged well. While there were no radical "hull variations" of the 35, it served as the direct predecessor to the Island Packet 350. The 350, built on a slightly evolved hull, incorporated an integrated swim platform and a slightly different stern profile, but much of the 35's DNA remained intact.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Island Packet 35 has appeared in numerous cruising guides and "best used boat" lists over the decades. It is frequently cited in the works of Beth Leonard and Evans Starzinger as an example of a robust, accessible entry point into bluewater cruising. The model also maintains a high profile in the Cruising World archives, where it has been celebrated for its enduring resale value and construction quality.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Island Packet 35 must focus on three primary areas that are common to the builder’s models of this vintage:

1. Chainplates: The IP 35 utilizes 304-grade stainless steel chainplates that are glassed into the hull structure. Over time, moisture can become trapped against the steel, leading to crevice corrosion. Since they are encapsulated, inspection is difficult, and replacement is a major labor-intensive project involving cutting into the fiberglass.
2. Aluminum Tanks: The original fuel and water tanks were constructed of aluminum and placed deep in the bilge before the deck was joined to the hull. After 30+ years, these tanks are prone to pitting and leaking. Replacing them often requires cutting the cabin sole or dismantling furniture.
3. Osmotic Blistering: While Island Packet used high-quality resins, boats from the late 80s and early 90s are still susceptible to "Island Packet acne" (small blisters). While usually cosmetic rather than structural, a thorough survey of the bottom is essential.
4. Rudder Bearings: The rudder is supported by a shoe at the base of the keel. If the boat has spent significant time in sandy or silty waters, the lower bearing can wear, leading to vibration or "play" in the steering system.

Community & Resources

Owners of the IP 35 benefit from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the maritime world. The Island Packet Yacht Owners Association (IPYOA) is the primary technical resource, offering a massive repository of DIY guides, modification logs, and historical documents. Another vital resource is the IP Home Port, a long-standing volunteer-run site that hosts a wealth of archival data and member-driven forums focused specifically on the maintenance of Bob Johnson’s designs.

The Verdict

The Island Packet 35 is a stout, "go-anywhere" cruiser that offers an exceptional balance of safety and comfort. While it lacks the agility of a modern fin-keel boat, it compensates with a level of build quality and storage capacity that is rare in this size range.

Pros:

• Exceptional Stability: The Full Foil Keel and heavy displacement provide a secure motion in heavy weather.
• Massive Interior: The 12' beam and clever layout offer the living space of a much larger vessel.
• Build Quality: Solid fiberglass hull and high-grade teak joinery represent premium American craftsmanship.
• Resale Value: Due to their reputation, IP 35s tend to hold their value better than most mass-production cruisers.

Cons:

• Maintenance "Gotchas": Glassed-in chainplates and integrated aluminum tanks are difficult and expensive to replace.
• Light Air Performance: The boat is heavy and may require the engine in light winds or when trying to point high.
• Maneuverability: The long keel makes backing into slips under power a challenge for the uninitiated.