Island Packet

Island Packet Yachts is an American builder of sailing and motor yachts, based in Largo, Florida. Island Packet Yachts is a subsidiary of Traditional Watercraft, Inc., founded by naval architect Bob Johnson.

When the Bombay Trading Company, another Florida boatbuilder, went bankrupt in 1979, Johnson bought the molds for the Bombay Express, a 26-foot (7.9 m) cruising sailboat. Modifying the yacht's interior, sailplan and underbody, Johnson produced his first yacht and called it, very simply, the "Island Packet". The name stuck and soon every model was known as an Island Packet. In most cases, the size designation followed "Island Packet".

Today, over 2,200 Island Packets have been built and can be found sailing throughout the world. Known for Johnson's modern interpretation of a traditional full keel (he calls it the Full Foil Keel) the range of models is recognized by their shallow draft, spacious accommodations and rugged build.

Island Packet models have won several industry awards over the years, including seven Cruising World magazine "Boat of the Year" awards and three SAIL magazine "Best Boats" awards. Johnson is also the recipient of the 1999 "Industry Award for Leadership" presented by SAIL magazine.

In mid April 2016 Traditional Watercraft was acquired by Hake Yachts who will build Island Packet, Blue Jacket, and Seaward yachts in the Largo Florida facilities.

Source: Wikipedia