1977 28' islander information please

[danscotttrudel]

I found this islander for sale in new jersey. Wondering if someone could tell me what they thought about this boat. Would it be good for the Caribbean adventure Im planning? Are the junk? Any help would be appreciated. I've added the webpage below there are pictures and info. The owner has dropped the price recently by a few grand.

http://m.yachtworld.com/mobile/boats.../United-States

[Plain sailor]

Morning, I have owned 2 Islanders, a 1977 26 and a 32 I owned for 7 yrs. More money spent on looks than build but not bad. Mast step issues common, They sail well but not racers. They were built for coastal in southern caif. As in all boats depends how they were cared for. The Islander 36 was a hell of a boat. Plain Sailor

[GordMay]

➥ Classic Plastic Sailboat Review: Islander Bahama 28 | Cruising World

➥ ISLANDER 28 sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com

➥ 1979 Islander ISLANDER 28/SL Price, Used Value & Specs | NADAguides

[danscotttrudel]

Thanks guys. She sure is pretty.

[spflyer]

I've had an Islander 32 for a few years and it's a wonderful boat. Of course it's an oldie and probably has all the associated problems. I had to remove and rebed all my toe rails for leaks, but other than that it's a great boat. Both the 28 and 32 are Robert Perry boats and are similarly constructed. Perry says that the 28 was his best Islander design. If the boat is sound I wouldn't hesitate to buy it. They're build like a tank. Plywood cored deck and solid layup.

Leo

[rstackjd]

I'm going to jump in here since I'm looking at a '76 Islander 28 locally. I'm new to sailboat ownership and the Islander so any info anyone can share, problems to watch for, etc will be appreciated.

I noticed a fair amount of spyder cracking on the on deck, but it feels solid to walk on is this an issue? should I plan on some kind of repair for this?

Finally - I'm confused about two "half-circle" openings at gunwale along the cockpit - two on each side, about 18 inches apart. Should have taken a picture but didn't. any thought what those are?

Thanks