Island Packet's 370 ready for offshore, or the world
5/26/2004 12:16:04 PM by MARSHALL BRODIE
There is something special about a boat that can sail a round the world. Maybe it's the freedom of knowing that you could provision the boat, cast off the dock lines and set sail on a nautical adventure at any time.
Island Packet Yachts' new 370 is just such a boat. And, while most buyers of these boats will rarely sail for more than a week or two, knowing that you could is part of its appeal.
The 370 is a handsome, practical boat that will appeal to many sailors, including those who never lose sight of land.
The Island Packet Yachts' 370 is the latest offering in a line of classic but thoroughly modern boats from this Largo, Fla.-based company. In a change from previous designs, Island Packet broadened the stern on the 370 to increase room, speed and buoyancy.
Island Packet, unlike the majority of sailboat builders, uses a highly refined version of the full keel that offers excellent tracking, strength and surprising performance for a cruising boat. Running nearly the full length of the hull, the full keel also provides protection for the propeller and large rudder.
The 370 uses the latest in sail-handling technology, too. An inside-themast roller-furling main enables solo sailors and couples to easily furl the main (think of a windup window shade on its side). Roller furling is standard for the jib as well.
Most sailors will probably opt for the available cutter rig for more power and performance. Island Packet installed a taller mast to enhance performance on all points of sail. Rack and pinion wheel steering is standard. Amolded-in instrument pod is mounted over the companionway hatch, a great location, placing it in the view of the captain and crew.
The deep cockpit is secure and dry. The seatbacks have an improved backrest for more comfort. Wide, unclutte red side decks with stainless steel handrails along the cabin top add to crew safety when going forward. In the event of a collision, the anchor locker features a watertight bulkhead.
The interior of the 370 reflects input from owner comments of other Island Packet Yachts. It has more modern t reatments such as beveled teak and oak flooring, light colored fabrics, ceiling and Corian countertops. The interior includes two staterooms and one head compartment.
For weekends, the 370 can sleep up to seven. The forward stateroom has an elevated island berth with storage underneath. Three opening ports, an overhead hatch and a deck vent provide ventilation for the forward stateroom. Aseparate door to the head compartment provides private access from the forward stateroom.
The aft stateroom has a door to close it off from the main cabin and also has an elevated double berth with some shallow storage underneath. True to its cruising heritage, the 370 has a well-equipped navigation station located in the aft cabin.
The craftsmanship of the interior woodwork throughout the boat is very good.
The well lighted main cabin has full-length settees (cushioned benches), port and starboard. The port opens to form a double berth. The dining table folds up against the head compartment bulkhead, and it opens up great interior room when not in use. The galley is compact but is convenient and easy to use. Al a rge icebox, double sink and gas stove provide the necessities for preparing a meal at sea, along with a microwave oven.
The head compartment includes manual head for greater reliability, a shower, vanity and sink with hot and cold water.
The 370 has ample auxiliary power with a standard 56-horsepower fourcylinder diesel engine. Extensive sound deadening materials help keep the auxiliary quiet. A 170-gallon water tank will last frugal water users a longtime.
The Island Packet is strong, finely finished and priced at $244,950. Not taking it across an extended bluewater crossing would be a shame. For more information, call 888-724-5470 or go to the website at www.ipy.com.
Marshall Brodie writes about boats for Wheels & Waves. He can be reached by e-mail at mbboating@yahoo.com.