1986 Island Packet Yachts 38 For Sale

1986 Island Packet 38 for Sale: Classic Cruiser in Charleston, South Carolina

Timeless Design with Modern Comforts

The 1986 Island Packet 38, named Freedom, is a well-crafted cutter designed for cruising enthusiasts who appreciate both performance and comfort. With a reputation for seaworthiness and stability, this vessel is perfect for those looking to explore coastal waters or embark on longer voyages. The Island Packet 38 combines traditional aesthetics with modern amenities, ensuring a delightful sailing experience.

Spacious and Functional Living Areas

Below deck, the Island Packet 38 features a thoughtfully designed interior that maximizes space and comfort. With two cabins and a total of four berths, this yacht is ideal for family cruising or entertaining friends. The well-equipped galley and inviting saloon create a warm atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day on the water. The two heads provide convenience and privacy for all aboard.

Specifications - 1986 Island Packet 38

• Builder: Island Packet Yachts
• Model: 38
• Year: 1986
• Location: Charleston, South Carolina
• Length: 38 feet
• Beam: 12.7 feet
• Displacement: 21,500 lbs
• Draft: 5 feet
• Engine: Yanmar 4JHE, 44 HP
• Fuel: Diesel
• Accommodations: 2 cabins, 4 total berths, 2 heads

Key Features:

• Autopilot
• B&G Electronics

1986 Island Packet 38 – Classic Bluewater Cruiser

Step aboard an iconic piece of American boatbuilding history. Renowned for their bulletproof construction, legendary safety, and remarkable comfort, the Island Packet 38 is a true full-keel, cutter-rigged cruiser designed for safe offshore passages and comfortable liveaboard life.

This 1986 IP38 is structurally sound, and ready to sail into her next life. She is a turnkey opportunity for an adventurous buyer looking for legendary bones; while completely functional for cruising, she presents a prime canvas for a bit of brightwork polish, cosmetic TLC, and personal system updates to truly make her shine at her peak again.

Key Features & Offshore Highlights

• Full Foil Keel & Protected Rudder: Unmatched directional stability, smooth motion in heavy seas, and a shallow draft ideal for coastal gunkholing or island hopping.
• Cutter Rig: Easily managed, versatile sail plan ideal for short-handed or solo passage-making.
• Liveaboard Comfort: Immense 2-cabin, 2-head interior layout featuring solid handcrafted teak joinery, massive storage, dedicated nav station, and exceptional head clearance.
• Passage Galley: Deep double stainless sinks, broad counter space, gimbaled propane stove/oven, and generous refrigeration capacity.
• Electronics: All new B&G Chart Plotter/MFD and Autopilot
• Sails & Rigging: News sails and stackpack

Specifications & Vessel Data

Year / Builder 1986 / Island Packet Yachts

Model Island Packet 38

LOA 38' 0"

LWL 33' 0"

Beam 12' 8"

Draft 4' 3"

Displacement 21,500 lbs

Ballast 10,000 lbs (Internal Lead)

Rigging Cutter Rigged

Fuel Capacity 57 gal

Fresh Water 157 gal

Engine Yanmar Diesel 4JHE / 44 HP

A rare opportunity to own a world-class bluewater cruiser with fantastic bones at an attractive price point—ready to be customized and sailed into her next great chapter.