Island Packet 370/379 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Island Packet 370/379 is defined by its Full Foil Keel®, a design that integrates the keel into the hull for maximum structural integrity and a shallow draft. On the water, this translates to a vessel with exceptional tracking and a "seakindly" motion that minimizes the sharp jarring often felt in fin-keeled performance cruisers. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio typically exceeding 250, the boat is decidedly heavy, which ensures it carries momentum through chop but requires a freshening breeze to truly find its stride.

The cutter rig is the standard configuration, often featuring a Hoyt Boom® for the staysail. This self-tacking arrangement simplifies short-handed sailing and improves the aerodynamic efficiency of the headsail. According to editorial reviews in Cruising World, which named the 370 the "Domestic Boat of the Year" upon its debut, the boat handles predictably in heavy weather, staying balanced even when reefed down. While the high wetted surface area of the full keel limits light-air performance—often necessitating the use of the engine in under 8 knots of breeze—the boat excels in 15–25 knots, where its stability allows for a dry, upright ride that reduces crew fatigue.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Island Packet is well-regarded for maximizing every cubic inch of the interior, and the 370/379 hull is a prime example. The layout features a two-cabin, one-head configuration that prioritizes the comfort of a cruising couple. A standout feature is the owner’s stateroom forward, which boasts a large "island" berth—an uncommon luxury in a 37-foot boat—allowing access from both sides. The aft cabin provides a comfortable double for guests or serves as extensive storage for long-range cruising gear.

The 370 interior is characterized by traditional teak joinery and a fold-up dining table that creates an open, airy salon. In the updated 379 variant, the manufacturer introduced more contemporary finishes, including lighter wood options, Corian countertops, and improved LED lighting systems. The galley is a classic U-shape designed for use at sea, equipped with deep sinks and high fiddles. A notable feature of this hull's design is the massive storage capacity, including cedar-lined lockers and a deep bilge that accommodates heavy tankage low in the hull, further enhancing the boat's righting moment.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Island Packet 370 gained significant industry acclaim shortly after its launch, securing the 2004 "Best Midsize Cruiser" award from Cruising World magazine. It has also been featured in various long-distance cruising narratives, notably in technical reviews by Yachting Monthly, where it was praised for its "bomb-proof" construction. The model is a frequent subject of study for those transitioning from coastal hopping to ocean crossing, often appearing as the benchmark for "pocket voyagers" in nautical seminars.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of the 370 and 379 should focus their inspections on the specific engineering choices unique to Island Packet:

• Chainplate Integrity: While the 370 used a higher grade of 316L stainless steel compared to the 304 used in older 1980s models, the chainplates are still encapsulated in fiberglass. Buyers should look for any signs of "bleeding" or rust streaks on the hull sides, which can indicate crevice corrosion requiring a labor-intensive replacement.
• Aluminum Tankage: The water and fuel tanks are made of aluminum and are glassed into the hull structure. If the tanks develop leaks due to bottom-up corrosion (pitting from standing bilge water), replacement is a major project that often involves removing sections of the cabin sole.
• Macerator and Plumbing: Owner reports often mention the complexity of the sanitation system. Inspect the seacocks and macerator pumps, as the layout of the plumbing in the 370 can make access to these components difficult for routine maintenance.
• Rudder Moisture: The foil-shaped rudder is a composite structure. Using a moisture meter during a haul-out is recommended to ensure the core has not become saturated, a common issue in many high-displacement cruisers of this era.

Community & Resources

Owners of the 370 and 379 are supported by a robust network of enthusiasts. The Island Packet Yacht Owners Association (IPYOA) provides a deep technical archive specifically for this model, covering everything from Hoyt Boom maintenance to interior varnish schedules. Another vital resource is IP Home Port, a long-standing volunteer-run site that hosts technical wikis and discussion boards where owners share specific modifications for the 370/379's plumbing and electrical systems.

The Verdict

The Island Packet 370/379 is a masterclass in compromise-free cruising for those who value safety and comfort over raw racing speed. It remains one of the most sought-after vessels on the secondary market for sailors planning to transit the Caribbean or cross the Atlantic.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and motion comfort in heavy seas.
• The Hoyt Boom staysail makes it one of the easiest boats to sail short-handed.
• Superb interior volume with an "island" berth rarely found in this size class.
• Robust build quality with a protected propeller and rudder.

Cons:

• Slow performance in light winds due to high wetted surface and weight.
• Replacing encapsulated chainplates or tanks is a costly, complex procedure.
• The large turning radius of the full keel can make docking in tight marinas challenging.