Built between 1986 and 1993, this Bob Johnson-designed cruiser represents Island Packet's commitment to traditional bluewater sailing values during a pivotal era in sailboat design. With 188 hulls launched over seven years of production, the IP 38 earned recognition as a capable offshore passage-maker that prioritizes comfort and seaworthiness over racing performance. The cutter rig configuration provides excellent sail handling flexibility for varying wind conditions, while the long keel design delivers the directional stability and tracking that serious cruisers demand during extended passages. At 21,500 pounds displacement with nearly half that weight in ballast, this yacht offers the substantial feel and motion comfort that characterizes Island Packet's approach to cruising boat design. The generous beam creates spacious accommodations below, while the moderate sail area keeps the boat manageable for couples or small crews. Her impressive comfort ratio of 32.74 reflects the yacht's ability to provide a stable, comfortable ride in seaway conditions, making her well-suited for coastal cruising and offshore voyaging rather than competitive sailing. Island Packet built a reputation for quality fiberglass construction and attention to detail, characteristics that helped establish this model as a respected choice among cruising sailors seeking a traditional, well-founded yacht capable of serious passages.
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- Based on asking prices — not actual sale prices, which are typically lower.
- Condition, year, location, and included equipment are not factored in.
- Outliers are automatically excluded using statistical filtering.
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What is the Island Packet 38's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Island Packet 38 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.07. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Island Packet 38's comfort ratio?
The Island Packet 38 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 32.74. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Island Packet 38 safe for offshore sailing?
The Island Packet 38 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.83. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Island Packet 38?
The theoretical hull speed of the Island Packet 38 is 7.70 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Island Packet 38 weigh?
The Island Packet 38 has a displacement of 21,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 38.00 ft.
How much does a used Island Packet 38 cost?
Based on 3 recent market listings, used Island Packet 38 sailboats typically sell for between $134,000 and $158,000, with a median asking price of $158,000. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.
Who designed the Island Packet 38?
The Island Packet 38 was designed by Bob Johnson, first built in 1986.