Island Packet Launches New 42 Motorsailer

Racing sailors may claim that Island Packet, the Florida-based sailboat builder known for heavy full keels and bulletproof layup, has always built motorsailers, much to the chagrin of Packet loyalists that value the builder’s preference for ruggedness and safety. Regardless, this time Island Packet has produced a self-described motorsailer in its Island Packet 42 MS.

The 42 MS packs a 33,000-pound displacement, including 10,000 pounds worth of ballast, into a 44-foot LOA, 13-foot beam, and ICW-friendly 4-foot, 10-inch draft. Safety and comfort are at the forefront of every aspect of the design, with the 42 MS sporting a full-length pulpit in lieu of lifelines, a robust hard top that could support an expansive solar array or a dinghy (or both), a 3-foot-deep swim platform, and a full-size door into the pilothouse.

The 42 MS features Island Packet’s first ever deck-stepped mast, which allows the company to also build the hull as a motor-only “explorer” trawler, if desired. For the rig, Island Packet chose its preferred Solent-style rig with self-tacking working jib, but a 170% reacher can be deployed to improve light air, downwind performance.

Inside, the pilothouse saloon with comfortable helm to starboard, wraparound settee to port, and modest galley makes an excellent hangout with 360-degree views. The engine room, which houses the 110-hp Yanmar, batteries, integrated oil change system, fuel, and other tankage, is accessible under the steps and via a large hatch in the pilothouse floor. Berthing includes a primary island berth up forward with en suite head and a guest double bunk to port with a day head.

“She’s going to be a great cruiser for the Pacific Northwest, the Great Loop, or anything else you want to do,” the builder commented in a video showing the launch of Hull No. 1 earlier this year.

All new Island Packet builds are semicustom and allow multiple configuration options. $699,000 | ipy.com