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Sailboat Specifications

Island Packet 27

Cutter · Long Keel

Designed by Bob Johnson · Built by Island Packet Yachts (Usa) · First built 1984

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LOA 26.50 ft  ·  Beam 10.50 ft  ·  Displacement 8,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 405.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Long Keel
About the Island Packet 27 Sailboat

Built from 1984 to 1992, this compact cruiser from Island Packet Yachts represents the company's commitment to creating seaworthy boats designed for comfortable coastal and offshore passage-making. Designer Bob Johnson crafted a vessel that prioritizes safety and livability over speed, evident in its substantial 8,000-pound displacement and deep long keel configuration that provides excellent tracking and directional stability. The cutter rig setup offers versatility in sail handling, allowing crew to adjust sail plan effectively across varying wind conditions—a crucial feature for serious cruising. With a displacement of 8,000 pounds and 3,000 pounds of ballast, this boat delivers the stability and sea-kindly motion Island Packet became renowned for, though at the expense of light-air performance typical of heavier cruising designs. The impressive comfort ratio of 21.65 indicates exceptional motion comfort in a seaway, while the capsize screening formula of 2.1 suggests good stability characteristics for offshore work. During its eight-year production run, 243 hulls were completed, making it a relatively common sight in cruising circles. This fiberglass construction boat appeals to sailors seeking a well-built pocket cruiser capable of handling serious coastal exploration and shorter offshore passages with confidence and comfort.

Videos
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The IP27's full keel is encapsulated lead or iron ballast, but the keel-to-hull joint can develop weeping cracks, particularly at the forward and aft ends of the keel where stress concentrates. Inspect carefully for rust staining or sealant failure around the keel perimeter.
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Deck hardware on early production boats was often bedded in polysulfide directly on balsa-cored deck sections. Failed bedding allows water into the balsa core, leading to soft spots, particularly around stanchion bases, chainplates, and winch pads.
1984–1989 models
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The chainplate knees on the IP27 are glassed into the interior cabinetry, making visual inspection nearly impossible without removing interior panels. Water tracking down the shrouds can saturate the glass layup around the chainplate tabbing, weakening the attachment over time.
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Market Price Estimate Beta
$24,500 – $59,500
typical asking price
Median $31,950  ·  8 listings used
All listings
$24,500 – $59,500 8
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 26.50 ft / 8.08 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 24.25 ft / 7.39 m
Beam 10.50 ft / 3.20 m
Max Draft 3.70 ft / 1.13 m
Displacement 8,000.00 lb / 3,629 kg
Ballast 3,000.00 lb / 1,361 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 405.00 ft² / 37.63 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer Bob Johnson
Builder Island Packet Yachts (USA)
First Built 1984
Last Built 1992
Number Built 243
Associations Official Island Packet Yacht Owners Association
Related Sailboats Hunter 27 2 · Cal 2 27 · Tanzer 27 · Coronado 27 · Islander 27
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Yanmar
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 18
Fuel Capacity 19 gals / 72 L
Water Capacity 31 gals / 117 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Island Packet 27's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Island Packet 27 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.25. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Island Packet 27's comfort ratio?

The Island Packet 27 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 21.65. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Island Packet 27 safe for offshore sailing?

The Island Packet 27 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.1. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Island Packet 27?

The theoretical hull speed of the Island Packet 27 is 6.60 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Island Packet 27 weigh?

The Island Packet 27 has a displacement of 8,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 26.50 ft.

How much does a used Island Packet 27 cost?

Based on 8 recent market listings, used Island Packet 27 sailboats typically sell for between $24,500 and $59,500, with a median asking price of $31,950. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Island Packet 27?

The Island Packet 27 was designed by Bob Johnson, first built in 1984.