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Sailboat Specifications

Islander 55

Masthead Sloop · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by Bruce King · Built by Wayfarer Yacht Corp./Tradewinds Yachts · First built 1968

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LOA 54.67 ft  ·  Beam 14.00 ft  ·  Displacement 38,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 1,184.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Islander 55 Sailboat

With limited specifications available, the Islander 55 represents a significant step up in size from Islander Yachts' more commonly documented models. This substantial cruising sailboat was built during Islander's active production years when the California-based manufacturer focused on creating solid, seaworthy vessels for serious sailors. Given Islander's established reputation for building robust fiberglass cruisers, the 55-footer likely embodies the same construction philosophy that made smaller Islander models popular among coastal and offshore cruisers. The company was known for prioritizing structural integrity and practical layouts over cutting-edge performance, suggesting this model would appeal to cruising sailors seeking a reliable platform for extended voyaging. At 55 feet, this yacht falls into the category of serious blue-water cruising boats, suitable for extended coastal passages and offshore work. Islander's typical design approach emphasized comfortable accommodations, reasonable sailing performance, and the kind of solid construction that builds confidence in challenging conditions. While detailed specifications remain scarce, the Islander 55 would have competed with other mid-1970s to 1980s production cruisers, offering owners a blend of comfort and capability for serious cruising adventures.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 54.67 ft / 16.66 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 36.00 ft / 10.97 m
Beam 14.00 ft / 4.27 m
Max Draft 11.33 ft / 3.45 m
Min Draft 5.75 ft / 1.75 m
Displacement 38,000.00 lb / 17,237 kg
Ballast 6,000.00 lb / 2,722 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 1,184.00 ft² / 110.00 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Bruce King
Builder Wayfarer Yacht Corp./Tradewinds Yachts
First Built 1968
Related Sailboats Morgan 54 Marauder · Tradewinds 55 · Ct 54 · Whitby 55 · Tayana 55
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Islander 55's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Islander 55 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.83. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Islander 55's comfort ratio?

The Islander 55 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 42.02. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Islander 55 safe for offshore sailing?

The Islander 55 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.67. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Islander 55?

The theoretical hull speed of the Islander 55 is 8.04 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Islander 55 weigh?

The Islander 55 has a displacement of 38,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 54.67 ft.

Who designed the Islander 55?

The Islander 55 was designed by Bruce King, first built in 1968.