The IPY Family
Island Packet began in 1979 with the vision of Naval Architect, Bob Johnson. He started off modestly, building a 27-footer, but he had big dreams. He built the company to into an industry powerhouse, focused on superior quality and safety, as well as comfort and livability. The exclusive Full Foil Keel he developed has provided a benchmark of stability, seaworthiness, and performance.
Island Packet Yachts has created benchmark standards and built over 2,500 yachts. Our owners are part of a group of enthusiastic sailors who are proud to be part of the Island Packet Yachts family.
Our Great Owners
The loyalty to our owners is very important to us. With excellent customer service, a three-year “stem to stern” warranty and extended 10-year coverage on hull and deck along with many active owners groups and numerous regional rendezvous held each year, it is no wonder they are such an enthusiastic group.
From the beginning, every yacht has been built with premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and vigilant manufacturing controls.
Continuing a Legacy
This is our legacy and we are moving it forward today in big ways.
Under New Ownership
In January of 2017, Darrell and Leslie Allen took ownership of the company, and it became Island Packet and Seaward Yachts. The Allen’s have a long history with Island Packet as the dealer in San Diego, CA, for over 25 years. Their love for the brand, and the owners, drove them to take on the challenge of moving this iconic sailboat line forward by building the Next Generation Island Packet Yachts.
Our Enduring Vision
With a deep respect for the ideals of the brand and its founder, Bob Johnson, the Allen’s and their investors set a course to take the traditions of the past and advance them in new and exciting ways, utilizing their retail experience.
They started with just 13 employees and today are at over 50, with many returning craftsmen from the past. Currently, our average senior craftsmen has over 20 years of experience building Island Packet Yachts!
Rebuilding a Legend
Upon taking over the company, the Allen’s and their investors undertook an immediate effort to substantially reduce overhead by consolidating 2 facilities into one. This move, along with being debt free and having our very small executive team wear many hats, allowed us to lower prices while maintaining and even increasing excellence. Having been on the retail side of things as Island Packet Dealers, the Allen’s recognized the need for competitive pricing in the marketplace.
Award Winning Change
The vision for the future is in full swing with the introduction of new Island Packet Yachts 349 and 439 Models. “Our goal is to provide innovation and customization that has never before been available at Island Packet” said Darrell Allen. That drive towards modernization has lead to the Island Packet Yachts 349 being named Cruising World’s 2019 Domestic Boat of the Year. The revolution has continued, with our 439 model winning Cruising World’s 2021 Best Full Size Cruiser of the Year.
A New Island Packet Yachts
We are no longer a production boat company. Our goal is not to build our boats to a price point, instead, we build the best boat possible at a great value. We do not build hundreds of boats each year. Our team of master craftsmen treats each yacht as a custom piece of art. As a result, the market is not flooded with used models, and Island Packet Yachts’ retains their value in a manner unrivaled by other brands. When you start with the highest quality components, those components wear well over time, and our owners are known for meticulous and diligent care of their boats.
Superior Quality AND Value
We are proudly featured in Ferenc Mate’s book, “The World’s Best Sailboats II”. Of our peers in this book, Island Packet Yachts is clearly the best value in terms of price. This is just another example of Island Packet’s leadership in value throughout the sailing industry as a whole.
Island Packet Yachts have long been known for their excellence and value, our commitment to these standards has only increased, as evidenced by Island Packet Yachts’ winning of Cruising World Magazine’s 2019 Boat of the Year Award for our 349 model, and 2021 Boat of the Year Award for our 439 model!