Our boat, named Koko, is a next-generation 2020 Island Packet 349. Finished in that classy ivory and camel tan gelcoat and rocking a Sapele interior, she has that timeless Island Packet vibe going. But don’t be fooled by her old-school charm—she is packed with all the snazz and modern high-tech. It is like sailing a vintage Rolls-Royce, but with all the modern upgrades and gizmos that you never knew you needed!
She spent the first four years of her life splashing only in the freshwater of the Great Lakes. During winters, she was treated like royalty, hibernating in heated storage. In 2024, a truck hauled her all the way to Saint Petersburg, FL, where we were lucky enough to discover her and seal the deal. The tale of how we came to own this gem is best shared over a drink—it is hard to believe how many lucky circumstances fell perfectly into place for it to happen. In the meantime, let’s dive into what made us instantly fall in love with this beauty.
Comfort and Size
The Island Packet 349 hits that sweet spot we have been dreaming about. With 38’ in length and a 12’6” wide beam we find her perfectly sized—roomy enough for us (and the occasional guests) to live aboard for months, yet small enough for easy handling and keeping berthing and maintenance costs lower. You will find all the comforts of home onboard: a bright, airy saloon with plenty of headspace, ample storage for all the gear, a galley with a three-burner propane stove and oven that is ready for culinary adventures, and a nicely sized head with a proper shower stall. There is 110V air conditioning/heating and a diesel powered heating system to keep the climate just right. Two cozy sleeping quarters await after a day on the water. For us, this boat is the Goldilocks of sailboats—not too big, not too small, but just right!
Craftsmanship
Our motto is simple: more sailing, less maintenance. The Island Packet 349 fits this philosophy. The minimal use of exterior teak means fewer maintenance chores and more time enjoying the voyage. We can focus on spotting dolphins, not sanding and varnishing every other weekend. Her solid fiberglass hull and vacuum-bagged Divinycell core deck means fewer worries about water damage, giving us peace of mind. The phrase “built to last” fits the bill, thanks to the solid and high-quality components all throughout. So hopefully we will spend more time enjoying the open seas, instead of wandering the aisles of a marine supply store. (Hey, a sailor can dream, right?)
Safety and Reliability
We are cruisers, not racers! Our priority is a safe and comfortable passage, and the full-foil keel with encapsulated lead ballast keeps us steady and secure in various sea conditions. There are no keel bolts that can rust and break through. Her 20,000 lbs displacement weight is worthy of heavy seas. It is like having a loyal, sturdy friend who has got your back when things get bumpy.
The IP Packeteers
Island Packet Yachts have a loyal, die-hard following for a reason. The community of owners is incredibly supportive, positive, and friendly. In this community, comradery is king. We do not see those nasty, abusive comments that unfortunately are all over many other social media groups these days. It is such a nice change and so helpful!
A Million Words
They say an image is worth a thousand words. Logically, that means a video is worth… millions? Billions? Maybe even a gazillion words. So let’s summarize by condensing a million words into just a few minutes of cinematic bliss.
So there you have it, our S/V Koko. She is more than a boat; she is our trusted companion to exploring new horizons with reliability, safety, and comfort. Ready to follow our adventures? Keep an eye on our blog for more tales from the rivers, bays, and high seas!