1986 Island Packet 38 — Halcyon

Halcyon is an upgraded version of the IP 38.  She has had recently a very efficient self steering system added with the oversight of her very experienced knowledgeable owner, Additionally her chain plates have been replaced for rig dependability and reliability. Exceptional seaworthiness and a comfortable motion in heavy seas. The “Full Foil Keel” offers superior protection for the propeller and rudder. Spacious, well-ventilated interior with a dedicated stall shower. High-capacity water and fuel tanks suited for long range cruising. Given the IP 38’s  following and earned reputation in the offshore cruising category combined with kudos for her build  specs and scantlings, the next owner will find her a strong offering when resale is considered.   A wise choice for sailors who seek to sail further safely in all conditions.

Full details

Accommodation

The interior of the Island Packet 38 was revolutionary for its time, utilizing the boat’s 12′ 8″ beam to create a “Tri-Cabin” layout that provides genuine privacy for two couples. Unlike many 38-footers of the late 1980s that relied on cramped quarter berths, the IP 38 features a dedicated aft cabin with a double berth and standing dressing area. The forward cabin is equally spacious, centered around a large V-berth and complemented by abundant cedar-lined hanging lockers.

The salon is characterized by Island Packet’s signature bulkhead-mounted table, which folds down to reveal a wine rack and storage, opening up the floor space when not in use. The use of solid teak and teak veneers, combined with a teak-and-holly sole, creates a warm, traditional aesthetic. A standout feature is the head compartment, which includes a separate stall shower, a luxury rarely found on yachts of this size.

Interior Comforts and Amenities

Very comfortable interior with two heads featuring electric toilets, a spacious aft cabin, a high-ceilinged forward cabin, a practical galley, and a convivial saloon with plenty of room to move around.

High-quality woodwork in excellent condition, abundant storage throughout, and a layout well suited for extended cruising or liveaboard use.

• Refrigerator

• Freezer

Electronics and Navigation

• Autopilot

• GPS – Raymarine A9 with AIS

• Depth Sounder

• Anemometer

• Speed Log

• Primary VHF Radio

• Secondary VHF Radio

• Direction Finder

• Wind Direction Indicator

• Wind Speed Indicator

• Compass

• Stereo

• Stereo Speakers

Electrical Systems

• Solar Panels

• Batteries (2024)

• Windlass

• Inverter (110V)

• Battery Charger

• Propane Shut-Off Valve

• Fume Detector

• Vented Propane Locker

• Propane Tanks

Deck and Hull Equipment

The cockpit is spacious, wide, and well protected from the sun by the companionway cover, bimini top, and connecting canopy. Additional large sunshades provide further protection while at anchor.

• Cockpit Cushions

• Cockpit Table

• Fenders and Dock Lines

• Aluminum Bottom Dinghy with Anchor

• Dinghy Davits

• Swim Platform with Ladder

• Navigation Lights

• Automatic Masthead Mooring Light

• Secondary Anchor

Sails and Rigging

Sails are in good condition and were serviced this year.

• Mainsail

• Jib

• Staysail

• Standing Rigging Replaced (2017)

• 316 Stainless Steel Chainplates Installed (2017)

Mechanical Equipment

• Yanmar 4JH5E 54 HP Diesel Engine (940 Hours)

• Max-Prop Propeller

• Hydrovane Windvane Steering System (2026)

• Manual Bilge Pump

• Electric Bilge Pump

Safety Equipment

• Fire Extinguishers

• Emergency Tiller on Hydrovane

• Lifelines

• Harnesses

Dinghy



• 10′ Aluminum Hypalon Dinghy

• Yanmar 15 HP Outboard

Tankage

• Fuel Capacity: 57 US Gallons

• Water Capacity: 157 US Gallons

• Holding Tank Capacity: Approx. 20 US Gallons

Owners Comments and Boat History

Under sail, the Island Packet 38 is surprisingly capable. Well-rigged and carrying a generous sail plan, she gets moving early in light winds despite her solid cruising displacement and heavy-duty construction.

The company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change or withdrawal without notice.

Listing MLS by Yachtr.com

Listing data via Yachtr.com MLS, as published by the broker.

Listed by BVI Yacht Sales; specs and price as published by the broker — on the market here since August 2026. Confirm details with the broker directly.