The Island Packet 29 is a popular sailing boat known for its sturdy construction, comfortable accommodations, and excellent sailing performance. It is a mid-sized cruising yacht designed for offshore sailing and long-distance voyages.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the Island Packet 29:
1. Design: The Island Packet 29 was designed by Bob Johnson and introduced in 1982. It features a traditional full keel design with a moderate draft, making it suitable for both coastal cruising and bluewater sailing.
2. Construction: The boat is built with a solid fiberglass hull, which provides strength and durability. The deck is also made of fiberglass, and the hull and deck are joined using a strong bonding system. The boat's construction is known for its quality and attention to detail.
3. Interior: The Island Packet 29 offers a spacious and comfortable interior layout. It typically has a V-berth forward, a main salon with a settee and a fold-down dining table, a well-equipped galley, a head with shower, and a quarter berth aft. The interior is known for its teak woodwork and ample storage space.
4. Sailing Performance: The Island Packet 29 is designed to be easily handled by a small crew. It has a cutter rig, which means it has two headsails (a genoa and a staysail) and a mainsail. This rig configuration allows for versatile sail combinations and better balance in different wind conditions. The boat is known for its stability, comfortable motion at sea, and good upwind performance.
5. Safety and Seaworthiness: The Island Packet 29 is built with safety in mind. Its full keel provides stability and helps with tracking and steering. The boat has a well-protected cockpit, high bulwarks, and wide side decks, making it safe and easy to move around on deck. It also has a spacious and secure anchor locker and a sturdy bow pulpit.
6. Size and Dimensions: The Island Packet 29 has an overall length of around 32 feet, including the bowsprit and stern pulpit. It has a beam (width) of about 10 feet and a draft (depth) of around 4 feet. The boat typically has a displacement (weight) of approximately 11,000 to 12,000 pounds.
Overall, the Island Packet 29 is a well-regarded sailing boat that offers a comfortable and seaworthy cruising experience. Its solid construction, spacious interior, and good sailing performance make it a popular choice among sailors looking for a capable and reliable offshore cruiser.
