2010 Island Packet Estero | 36ft

Valkyrie is fully equipped Island Packet Estero designed for bluewater or coastal cruising.

Introduced in 2009 to the extensive range of Island Packet yachts, the 36-foot shoal draft Estero is Island Packet’s goal to introduce a distinctive model that doesn’t stray from the company’s proven formula for success: moderate displacement, full-keel cruisers designed to be lived on, sailed far and in comfort.  Offering spirited sailing performance with exceptional ease of use, unrivaled safety and seakeeping, plus the livability, comfort and value that have earned Island Packet Yachts a worldwide reputation as America’s Cruising Yacht Leader™, the Estero represents the best of everything learned in the company’s thirty year history.The boat’s length-to-beam ratio of 2.95m is also in keeping with Bob Johnson’s previous designs, as is the conservative ballast displacement ratio of 40 percent.

The Estero’s forward saloon is principally a social/dining area. With the drop-leaf table up, there is comfortable seating for two couples. With the dining table down, it converts into a roomy V-berth.  Just aft of the mast and to port is the U-shaped galley. The galley placement is probably the biggest advantage of this layout compared with other boats in this size. Instead of being tucked into an aft corner or in the line of traffic, the galley is set near the fore-and-aft center of the boat, with a hatch overhead and opening port lights for ventilation and a view. The galley covers all the essentials such as counter space, cupboards, and deep well-insulated fridge-freezer systems. 

Opposite the owner’s cabin is the nav station with a fold-down chart table and a roomy double berth.  A clever stow-away privacy door keeps this space open and airy which can be attributed to the Estero feeling so much roomier than a typical 36 footer.

The Estero foresail sets from a Hoyt boom fixed just forward of the stem on the bowsprit. In this way, both the jib and the main are self-tacking, so working to windward is as easy as turning the wheel. The arrangement also allows for tight sheeting angles.The mainsail and jib halyards are led to dedicated Lewmar Ocean Series 16C two-speed winches on the mast; this reduces clutter at the cabin and makes sense for cruising boats with a furling mainsail. The mainsail roller-furling control line, jib sheet, and spare mainsail halyard lead aft through stoppers to the Ocean Series 30CT two-speed self-tailing winch on the portside of the companionway. The mainsheet and boom-vang lead through a stopper and matching winch on the starboard side of the companionway. The 7-foot-long cockpit seats offer plenty of room to stretch out. A large starboard locker offers room enough for two folding bikes and more; a port tray keeps small items accessible. Liner bins in the coamings keep the deck clear of running rigging.