[PCP]

paulk said:

"IP''s have a reputation for being solidly built. They also tend to have huge interior spaces that are lovely for dockside living in Florida along the protected bays and waterways. The big interior doesn''t give you much to hold onto as you''re launched across the cabin by a wave. I would also not want to see the bowsprit buried (and ripped off ) in the back of a swell as the big, flat transom gets pushed from behind. Some people think IP''s are best left In Place."
............................................


Do you mean that in your opinion the Island Packets are not seaworthy ocean going boats?

I am curious, your opinion goes against all opinions I have heard or read in the press.

take a look at some examples of opposite opinions taken from tests published on line, from well known sailing magazines:


From Bluewater sailing magazine on the IP 42:

Island Packets are pure cruising boats, so the design of the deck and accommodations plan is aimed at safety and ease of handling foremost, and comfort a close second. The cockpit is deep and the seat backs high enough to provide both good back support and protection from deck wash. In the Stream, we took breaking waves on the foredeck regularly and occasionally got caught by a sneaky broadside number that covered us in spray. But our seats remained dry, and under the large canvas dodger it was possible to remain on deck without full foul-weather gear. The side decks are wide and unobstructed. With low bulwarks at the hull-deck joint, security on deck is enhanced while dropped tools and clevis pins stay on the boat instead of bouncing directly into the drink.

The IP 420 is strong in the straight-on cruising realm of sailing: large tanks, comfortable motion, easy to sail alone or as a couple, durable, forgiving in rough seas, a great galley and a trustworthy design concept. ...

In the performance realm, it is worth noting that this boat has the ability to undertake offshore passages at relatively high average speeds.
...
We’ve seen IPs all over the world, from the Eastern Med to the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. With their full keels, attached rudders and protected propeller apertures, the boats are suited to real self-sufficiency. Ample tankage gives these boats range, while simple sailing systems make them safe and convenient for couples sailing on their own.
After 650 miles, among the only items on our list of recommendations for the boat, aside from additional light-air canvas, was the unobtrusive "chart table needs fiddles."

From Sail Magasine on the IP370:

"As with other Island Packets, the 370 will surely be right at home offshore in a good breeze and will be well suited to reaching through the trades. When the wind kicks up on a coastal passage, a boat this solid will feel mighty good."

... Here''s where a buyer makes the big decision: Do I need to go as fast as a racer/cruiser, or am I happy to poke along in comfort and safety? If you prefer to sail aboard a beautiful offshore-capable vessel, this is your style of boat."