Islander 55 Sailboats for Sale

Drawing Diagram

Builder drawing

Hull Type

Monohull · centerboard

Rig

Masthead Sloop

LOA

54.67' · 16.66 m

Disp.

38,000 lbs · 17,237 kg

First year

1968

The Islander 55 represents the zenith of the Wayfarer Yacht Corporation's ambition during the 1970s. Designed by the acclaimed naval architect Bruce King, this flagship vessel was a radical departure from the smaller, coastaloriented cruisers that established the company’s reputation. While Islander Yachts was built on the success of Joseph McGlasson’s 24foot designs, the 55foot model was aimed squarely at the burgeoning market for luxury bluewater cruisers. The boat is characterized by its powerful ketch rig, a traditional clipperstyle bow (on some variants), and a heavydisplacement hull that prioritized stability and momentum over lightair agility. Because production was extremely limited—estimates suggest fewer than 15 hulls were completed—the Islander 55 is often regarded as a semicustom rarity in the secondary market. Its legacy is further complicated by the company's financial transitions; after Islander’s parent company, Radlon Inc., faced difficulties, the molds for the 55 were eventually acquired by Tradewinds Marine, which produced a small number of vessels known as the Tradewinds 55.