The Islander 34 is a popular sailing boat that was designed by Alan Gurney and built by Islander Yachts in the 1960s and 1970s. It is a classic cruising sailboat known for its sturdy construction, comfortable accommodations, and good sailing performance.
Here are some key features and specifications of the Islander 34:
1. Design: The Islander 34 has a traditional design with a moderate displacement hull, a fin keel, and a skeg-mounted rudder. It has a balanced sail plan with a masthead sloop rig.
2. Construction: The boat is built with a solid fiberglass hull, which is known for its durability and resistance to osmosis. The deck is also made of fiberglass, providing a strong and reliable structure.
3. Dimensions: The Islander 34 has an overall length of 34 feet (10.36 meters), a beam of 10 feet (3.05 meters), and a draft of 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters). It typically weighs around 11,000 pounds (4,990 kilograms).
4. Accommodations: The interior of the Islander 34 is designed to provide comfortable living quarters for extended cruising. It usually features a V-berth in the forward cabin, a spacious main salon with a dining area, a well-equipped galley, a head with a shower, and a quarter berth aft.
5. Sailing Performance: The Islander 34 is known for its good sailing performance, offering a balanced combination of speed and stability. It handles well in various weather conditions and is suitable for both coastal cruising and offshore passages.
6. Rigging and Sail Plan: The boat typically features an aluminum mast and boom, with a roller furling headsail system. The sail plan includes a mainsail, genoa, and sometimes a spinnaker or a jib.
7. Production: Islander Yachts built the Islander 34 from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. During this time, they produced several hundred boats, making it a relatively common and accessible model in the used boat market.
Overall, the Islander 34 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that offers a comfortable and reliable platform for sailors looking to explore coastal waters or embark on longer voyages. Its classic design, solid construction, and good sailing performance have made it a popular choice among sailors for many years.
