Description
The Islander 32 Mark III, a late and refined iteration of Robert Perry's acclaimed Islander 32 series produced exclusively in 1977 by Islander Yachts in limited numbers (fewer than 50 hulls) amid the builder's winding down, exemplifies a versatile masthead sloop racer-cruiser with spirited upwind performance, balanced seaworthiness, and cozy accommodations for coastal or light offshore adventures; constructed in solid fiberglass with balsa-cored decks for durability and lightness, it sports a sleek profile with raked stem, reverse transom, fin keel, and spade rudder (standard 5.33-foot draft or optional 4-foot shoal). Measuring 31.96 feet LOA with a 25-foot LWL, 11.08-foot beam, 10,500-pound displacement, and 4,200 pounds of external lead ballast, it deploys 475 square feet of sail area via aluminum spars in a standard rig configuration (I=42 ft, J=13.8 ft, P=36.4 ft, E=10.2 ft) for efficient pointing and lively downwind runs. Auxiliary propulsion is handled by a reliable 13-hp Volvo MD7A diesel engine with approximately 20 gallons of fuel capacity and 40 gallons of freshwater; the warm teak-interior layout sleeps four comfortably in a practical arrangement featuring a spacious V-berth forward, U-shaped galley with gimbaled stove and icebox, convertible settee berths in the saloon, private enclosed head with shower, and ample storage under a low-profile coachroof for ventilation and headroom. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 15.9 signaling responsive yet forgiving handling, displacement/length ratio of 300 for heavy-weather stability, comfort ratio of 24.3 for bluewater confidence, capsizing screening of 2.03 indicating low risk, theoretical hull speed of 6.81 knots, and a PHRF handicap of about 156, the Islander 32 Mk III endures as a Perry masterpiece, prized by owner-operators for its no-fuss reliability and timeless appeal in club racing or family cruising.
