This new adventure begins with a flight to Florida and a schedule that has been greatly accelerated. My plan all along for this winter was to do some boat hunting. I had intended to dig around online for a boat in the Florida area—something I could single-hand around Florida for a while, and then start the trip home up the ICW. I’ve been wanting to experience the ICW and to get more miles under my belt on a sailboat.

My overarching goal is to gain the experience that will help me guide others who want to get into sailing, do some cruising, and have adventures. What I did not expect was for a sailboat to pop up that checked so many of my boxes so quickly—and it’s not even fall yet!

Integrity is an Island Packet 27. I have long admired the Island Packets I’ve seen, and my research shows these are very well-built, seaworthy boats: full keel, solid design, and bulletproof systems. This boat spoke to me. If you’ve ever bought a boat, you know the feeling when you just know—this is the one.

During my research, I found a similar model close to home and drove down to see it. The boat, called Wind Catcher, was an IP27 of similar age on a mooring in New Jersey. Stepping aboard, I sensed it had been well cared for and could make a great platform for my next adventure sailing around Florida Bay and the Keys. However, it was lacking some of the features listed on the Florida boat. That one was calling me to come take a look, so I took a chance and flew down.

The moment I stepped aboard Integrity, I knew this was the boat. From the new chartplotter, windlass, and watermaker, to in-mast furling and air conditioning—I was hooked. This Island Packet 27 was shaping up to be exactly the kind of boat I could spend some time on: not only safe, but also comfortable. And I even like the name—Integrity.

As I begin to make S/V Integrity my own—learning the systems, performing upgrades, and starting this journey—I invite you to come along. I welcome your company, comments, and feedback.