I too was somewhat disturbed by the title of this video, but agree that it is a fair analysis of the brand for which I designed (as you were kind enough to mention) for about four years in the mid-90s. However, a couple of corrections. The driving force behind Hunter was the late Warren Luhrs whose best friend was Lars Bergstrom (also now deceased). Warren and Lars sailed many miles together offshore in a boat called Thursday's Child, and then in another called Hunter's Child in which Steve Pettingill was also involved. (The "HC"in HC 50, stands for Hunter's Child, and is in fact a production version of that boat with more cruising amenities). It was this close relationship between Warren and Lars that led to Warren's whole hearted adoption of the B&R (Bergstom & Ridder) rig in Hunters. Lars, by the way also invented and marketed the Windex wind indicator that every boat now has at their masthead. Warren knew that he was building Chevrolets not Cadillacs, but that was his brand concept. He, like many other builders, also knew that he could not compete in the market with the many used boats available, so had to offer something different that would appeal to people new to sailing as well as to the existing market. The fact that Hunter, along with Catalina and Beneteau, were the last higher volume production builders left in North America speaks well to his marketing concept. I didn't always agree with Warren's concepts, especially in his total commitment to the B&R rig, but it was his company and I have to say he didn't make many mistakes. However, your title was still a little deceiving. ;-)
So right you are Robert. I met Warren a few times at different events. Listened to him speak at a couple. Very impressive guy. Thanks for the extra info.
Robert Mazza, You did some excellent work at Hunter. Your statements about Hunter's very successful line of boats dating back to the seventies up to today are bang on. Hunter never had any illusions about competing with Swan, Baltic, Hinckley, or even somewhat upscale manufacturers such as S2, CSY, Valiant, C&C, Tartan, and others. Many of these brands built for genuine blue water capability, safety, and seaworthiness, but that is not what most people want in a boat. The typical boater, even one who buys a large boat, never goes more than a few miles offshore, and most never leave sight of land. The owners of Hunter knew this and targeted the largest percentage of the market effectively. Hunter very rightly targeted the market for sailors who wanted to do mostly coastal family cruising, day sailing, club events such as raft-ups and club races, all in fair weather. Hunter targeted the market of sailors who want a low priced large boat that pleases their family and who have control over what weather the boat is likely to encounter due to the daysailing and coastal cruising emphasis. This market turned out to be the vast majority of general public sailors. There are far more people who can afford to pay two hundred thousand for a forty or so foot Hunter than a million or more for a Hinckley of the same length. As an added bonus, the Hunter has an interior which is better suited for the typical general public sailor. The fact that Hunter is still in business after the market crash of 2008 is testament to the marketing genius and commitment to building a reasonably well made, safe, roomy boat for a decent price. Most other manufacturers who built for this market are out of business, and not for lack of quality, or they are catering to the rich.
"don't buy" as a come-on-in strapline is a bit naff and overused, time it was dumped by bloggers and vloggers. But very happy with this gentleman's reviews, and now trawling the internet for Hunters since I'm in the market. Sad that some people and journalists just have to have a kicking stool, Hunters might bounce back as a 'must have' one day🙃.
God Bless you for your contribution to the Sailing ⛵️ World and helping us smaller budget Families have a wonderful Vessel that’s forgiving and easy to Sail well even with low experience. I appreciate it even though I’m very experienced I now find value in an excellent design over sparkly nifty luxury items 😏❤️🖖🏼 Fair Winds Good Sir! 💨
I’ve owned many sailboats over my 35 years of old adult sailing and now own a 2007 Hunter 49. Very pleased with the build quality, live aboard space, systems, and handling.
Had a 1989 Hunter legend 40 that I really loved for 6 years. Aft cabin under the cockpit was excellent and 360 deg access to the engine compartment. Plenty of storage and reasonable speed. I checked all the hull tabbing and chainplates all were intact and done properly. The almost flush deck was a nice feature too. It is great for what it was designed for. My 2 cents. YMMV.
As a US Sailing instructor teaching for the school that certified more ocean sailors than any other (especially on the west coast). We had a fleet of Hunters ,Jenneaus, and Beneteau boats. Up to a 50 boat fleet. Almost all Cruising boats 30-50’. We did a lot of offshore sailing out the Golden Gate. This was often very challenging conditions. I remember bashing up the N. Cal coast into big steep waves trying to get to where I could tuck. We dropped off a big wave with a hole behind it so hard that we flung the radar off of the mast. Ripped it right off! No damage to anything else. In big following seas they seemed to have more control than the afore mentioned boats too. So no, Hunter is not the ideal boat but they absolutely do not deserve the reputation that they have. And while not crazy about the B &R rig, I did love the arch. Now many boats copied this as the did the “margarita seats astern”. Hunter was not afraid to try new things. We had very little problems with the B &R rigs but we also had very experienced riggers to set them up properly. Also don’t forget Mike Harker single handing a Hunter 446 around the world twice! And he had significant physical handicaps.
@@debbyhight8573 Yes. That was our size range for going out with classes. Typically 36-38. And of course up into the forty plus length, but mostly 36-38. Additionally we had these boats insured for ocean a properly equipped. With all safety gear and beyond. But yes, Hunter 36 just fine properly maintained and equipped. A key factor is being equipped safely. If going more that just poking your nose out the Gate, epirb, mob strobe, life raft, good ground tackle and of course all the coat guard requirements, spare parts, tools vhf, proper navigational tools and know how to use them etc. N. Cal can have some challenging conditions and that includes cold water that you wouldn’t want to be in very long. So at least something that can get you out of the water and an EPIRB. I carry an EPIRB everywhere I sail. Even bay. But yes, have spent a lot of time and miles off shore N CA. In a hunter 36.
My family has owned a 2001 Hunter 410 for 10 years (we are the second owner) - we have sailed all over New England with our 3 children and our dog - we have sometimes lived on the boat for weeks and weeks during the summer going from anchorage to anchorage - never once have we regretted it or have we complained about how it sails - we have taken it into high winds with 12 foot seas (not by choice) and it has performed just fine. Everything is accessible and designed to be easily maintained compared to higher end vessels. We look at boats all the time, but we can never justify the higher prices, the lack of room/accommodations, and the difficult to access systems on other sailboats. It is interesting to also see the comments about Bavaria yachts - I sailed a Bavaria 50 for a week - we were 246 miles north of the Arctic Circle and went through a gale force storm with waves at 6 meters (18 ft) once again it did just fine.....trust me I would love to buy a Halberg-Rassy, Little Harbor, or the like - but for a Family of 5 and a dog who wants to sail, be comfortable, and not break the bank (money or time) fixing things - Hunters are great boats!
I concur, my wife and I are in our fifty’s and sixty’s. We sail our Hunter 41 along the coasts of New England and most of Long Island. The boat is easy for two to handle. It’s never let us down even some crazy pop up squalls that seem to have become violent. I’ve been sailing since 1982 on all kinds of boats and I don’t know what the dig about Hunter is all about.
I have a friend I have known and sailed on his 30 year old hunter for last 15 years. Its a 42 ft Hunter normally resident in the Yacht Club pen in Subic Bay next to My 44 ft Beneteau. His hunter has sailed all over Asia and to Australia from Philippines and is currently sailing around Borneo. For a 30 year old boat its still in extremely good condition with no deterioration in the exterior gel coat or fiberglass and no delaminations or cracks down below. I been sailing for 40 years and his hunter is a great sea boat and great interior lay out and has load of little extras that that are part of the boat. Its sturdy and has little flex in rough weather, I spent 3 days on her in Puerto Galera a few year ago in a typhoon on a mooring. we were swinging side to side in the wind about 160 deg. No I did not have a car tyre on board to throw in the water to slow the swing. The most frightening thing was the constant howl of the wind. Hardly stopped. The were no creaks of groans or strange noises that make you wonder if something is wrong. yes there was the occasional slap of ropes and halyards and deck fittings but most boats creak and groan in rough water. The Hunter did not and still does not. Its to my mind a very well designed and very well built boat probably more so then many newer designs that go more for looks and creature comforts than sea kindly features and peace of mind that something in not going to break.
I've had 3 Hunters a 28.5 a Legend 35 and now a Legend 40.5. Hunter built great boats and it was sad to see them go bankrupt as they were a great company under Warren. They were way ahead of the production industry with all the innovations. I remember the industry laughing at the arch designs, now it's almost standard on beneteaus. Hunter has a huge following of loyal sailors and I still find myself looking for my next. Thinking 456 passage for that huge aft cabin..
Bad review and the title is misleading. In His other review he praises a Hunter. Every boat has its pro’s and con’s there’s always a trade off. He also states that he would love to own w Hunter 37. So the stigma comes Bad reviews on the internet and social media. The title is just click bait to watch his channel.
We owned a 1991 Hunter 433 (ex charter) which we lived aboard for 5 years. Our plan was to sail from Florida to Australia and when friends and dock mates heard this commented that Hunters weren’t ‘blue water’ boats. Well, we spent 12 months sailing to Australia and didn’t break anything. This doesn’t mean all Hunters are blue water boats, just that if you’re careful ( as you should be) then most trips are possible.
Great objective summary. I have a 2015 MH37, as you showed in your video, and love it. No quality issues at all. It is a coastal cruiser, as you’ve described all production boats, with tons of space. I find I can out perform most other cruisers of my size and slightly larger, but my sails are new in comparison and I’m a previous racer that knows how to trim a boat for speed. My only complaints are the chain locker which is undersized and minor gelcoat cracking that all newer production boats seem to suffer from. On the B&R rig, I love it in combination with the mainsheet arch. Opens up the cockpit and makes trimming the boom supper easy. My main is huge in comparison to other boats and although the sweptback spreaders limit the ability to let the main out, the extra main sail area more than compensates and propels the boat downwind admirably. Adding a genaker or code zero and a whisker pole solves downwind performance. Yes, the added cross stays add complexity to the rig, but once you learn how to tension the rig, you can get a much better static and absolutely rigid shape from the rig than you will ever get from a rig with a backstay. I have in-mast furling so knowing the rig will furl regardless of wind speed is priceless. When I see in-mast fullers that have jammed the rigs almost always have too much rake in them. And, if you want to add rake while sailing you can always add running back stays to better work the main. But then why did you buy in-mast furling? All my two cents worth. I know my boat could cross an ocean, and know a few hunters that have. I’m not likely to do it, but that’s not how I use the boat. Perfect coastal cruiser for my needs.
Thanks for your info and honest thoughts & reviews... Today I was accepted on my offer for a 1986 Hunter 34 in pristine condition. Immaculate inside & out. I'm blown away by how "new" she really is. She'll be my first boat and I am looking forward to the new adventure.. Love your vids, keep up the good work. I'll drop you a thank you via Paypal when I get home for your content & info.. Thanks again. P.S. - I was accepted at 26k in this market..
I find it funny how well Catalina is regarded yet just about every 1970s to 1988 27 to 30 (10,000s) boats will need a new compression post, keel-sub and have keel bolt issues as well. The compression post you have rip out the floor and bulkheads. Hunter Cherubini and others you just replace a metal T for a compression post that is easy to get to and etc. The Hunter's are not having the major structural issues that the Catalina's in large numbers. Granted they fixed the issues in 1988 but 10,000 boats is still a lot with these major problems. Not to mention the B&R rig with internal structure is much stronger than stays connected to bulkheads...
You really ‘got me going’ with the title of this vid. I bought a Hunter Legend 375 (1993) three years ago in spite of all the negativity. It is a great boat. Sails well, great accommodation, the teak interior is gorgeous, reliable Yanmar power. Good job on the video. Keep up the good work.
Really makes no difference. Just like a race car driver who can max out any car, a good sailor can effectively sail any boat. Everything else is just creature comforts and subjective choices.
The reviews are useful but the reviewer is not fully knowledgeable on Hunters, so this is just one man’s opinion. Given that, the title is completely irresponsible. I don’t have a Hunter but have sailed on them more than this guy, and here are some thoughts. He says he doesn’t “get” the B&R rig. It is definitely a trade off. The boom can’t go all the way out so if you love dead down wind wing on wing sailing (I don’t) this is an issue. But these boats sail downwind fine. The advantages are it is a very stable rig with force spread out so less deck compression, and less obstruction in the cockpit and with the bimini. Also, the rig allows it to carry a larger main and this enables a smaller foresail, which if you want easy stable family oriented single handing can actually be a good trade off. The cockpits are huge. The hulls and designs on Hunters are as good or better than similar Beneteaus. Some are technically ocean rated though the overall design is coastal cruiser. The interiors are terrific and less “euro” than Beneteaus. The traveler on the arch is easy to manage from the helm, as are all the controls. If you are a dad essentially single handing family and friends these 2000s Hunters are super easy and safe boats to sail and they are comfortable and fun.
I was told to never buy a McGeger sailboat, it was my fist sailboat. i have so so many great memories on that old boat. No, i wasnt cruising the Bahamas so it was perfect for us. not everyone can ignore the price of a boat, count yourself as very lucky to even make a video like this. i dont own a Hunter but still it offends me. not sure if i like this vid. Never??? really?? says you! i know plenty of happy Hunter owners.
We had a hunter 36 for over 10 years and still think it is one of the best boats for the great lakes. It sails much better and faster than non hunter owners typically think. Lot’s of space and never had any significant issues with the build quality. Directly downwind wasn’t great, but altering course slightly off true downwind always worked. It could point very high into the wind with speed.
There is a lot of confusion on these models. There is the 37, 37.5, and the 375. The 37 legend is the older model with back stay and centerline rear . no sugar scoop. The 37.5 legend is a newer model with back stay and sugar scoop like from 1990-1996. The 375 is the newest Model with no back stay. From 1996 to ? The 1990-1996 legend 37.5 is an awesome boat that is more than capable. Same goes for the 40 and 40.5 legends just more expensive. If you checked out one of the mid 90’s legend in person it should be high on the list compared to other production models.
As a proud owner of a Hunter 50 center cockpit I take objection to your overview of Hunter boats. Few boats, production of not offer the amenities and high and dry comfort of this vessel. At 40,000 pounds, it is comparable to many none production center cockpits at half the cost. For a cruising family, this boat should not be overlooked.
I’m a relatively inexperienced sailor and have studied many many boats tours etc. trying to figure out the boat I would want and have arrived at the Hunter 50 centre cockpit. Great to hear you like yours so much.
My 1991 Hunter 30 has been a real joy. It has lived through many a storm here in Florida. It is easy to singlehanded, has a split backstay, spacious interior with much, much more storage and well thought out than similar Catalinas and Beneteaus. I am always amazed at how much more my 30 can store in her transom lockers , cockpit and interior compartments. Not silly open shelving that looks fine as long as you don't use it. Real cabinets with doors. I have had the boat 11 years and am only having to look for a new one now that an improperly moored boat broke free and hit mine during a tropical storm, while mine stayed firm on her mooring.
I went from west to east twice, first in 1998 Hunter 450 cc and second in 2003 hunter 456 cc and both had no problem and I still use what I bought in 2003
Lack of being able to go wing-on-wing would be my smallest concern with a Hunter. In my experience wing on wing is generally the same or slower VMG than broad reaching, less comfortable (especially with the rolling motion in large seas). You're also less maneuverable going wing on wing when using a pole. I can't think of a situation that wing-on-wing would be preferable, really, but that's just my experience. My biggest concern with a B&R rig would be upwind performance. Not having a backstay, or better yet an adjustable backstay, means you can't tension the forestay and flatten out he main, which would suck for sailing close-hauled. B&R's are probably best for beam or broad reaching, just a guess because i've never sailed on one and am no authority on them.
I have 2002 hunter 356 with B&R rig, no back stay. I appreciate your fair comments. I dont have any problems going up wind, but I am not racing... so maybe there maybe a little performance that I am missing out on. but my boat seems to do just fine compared to other boats I encounter on the bay.
I was looking at some fairly high-end boats. Hunters weren't even on my list as an option. My broker talked me into looking at a Hunter. I immediately realized the bang for buck factor. My Hunter 41 Deck Salon interior has more solid wood than Beneteau or Jeanneau.
a winch is a winch on a hunter or any other boat, so is the engine, so are the sheets, so is the prop, the Hunter has all the same bits bats as all other boats, so I do not agree with this.
I want a Bikini Girl! But, my wife objects...so does my gerontologist...so boat videos it is... But the 18.5 sucks more than the average electrolux..in design, sailing, build, however...
The "production" hunters also have externally turned hull deck flanges which is consisdered one of the weakest joints ( but easiest for production assembly) also every "shoal draft" hunter i have seen of this era tends to have rudders deeper than their shoal drat keels ( you cal usually tell if they've been aground but teh lack of antifouling on the bottom 6-8 inches of the rudder). that's really bad! though I do like the cockpit and interior layouts too! Hunter vision is a very interesting boat too!
Before you bash Hunters you better take a look at some of the later models, especially Marlow Hunters. We have a Hunter 380 that we love and it is CE A rated, has top of the line equipment, Selden rig, Furlex furling, Lewmar winches, Harken traveler, Shafer blocks, interior has a Force 10 3 burner range, keel is lead with 1" stainless steel bolts, hull deck joint is through bolted every 6 - 8 inches with 3M 5200, all mounting points for stantions, wenches ect have aluminum backing plates molded into the fiberglass. We went through Marlow Hunters plant in 2017 as well as Catalina's plant, I am a automotive product design engineer as well as expert cabinet maker and overall I would place Hunter and Catalina about the same although I would give Hunter the edge for overall quality. We went to the 2017 Miami sailboat show and Marlow Hunter had there 47 there and as far as fit and finish and quality I would give it hands down the best sailboat in the show. I would say back when I first got into sailing in the early 80's Hunter did have some quality issues we had a 1976 8M S2 which at the time was one of the top line boats and we had seen some Hunters of this era had a bit to desire and at this time I would give Catalina the edge. Beneteau and Jeanneau used to have some very nice interiors, however, the new ones with the euro interiors look very cheap like I would expect to see in a travel trailer, if you compare the specs of the new Beneteau and Jeanneau's you will find across the board less tankage, smaller engines and less weight than a Hunter or Catalina. We looked at a couple used 40' Beneteau's mid late 90's one had servere cracking of the gellcoat all over the deck and another had carbon steel keel bolts that were only about 5/8 dia and so rusty I would not take the boat out for fear of the iron keel falling off. I asked at the boat show how the hull deck joint was done one the Beneteau's and I was told the used an adhesive sealer with a few sheet metal screws. No a Hunter is not a Island Packet, Amel, Hinkley or Swan but if these were the only boats on the market I would not be able to afford a sailboat.
@@LadyKSailing i did watch the video, it sounded like you were mostly bashing Hunters. I have not heard you bash the Beneteau's yet there construction is not any better and I can point out where the new ones are much cheaper looking.
You almost lost me. But pulled it off. , Some of what you are talking about is almost apples and oranges. , all these brands of boats. Are boats. They all float hopefully. Ans the lasting condition of depends on the owners. How they care for the, What condition they live in. Etc etc. .. I have a 84 37c. Cherubini. Which has been taking very good care of , Of course with anything. Boats. Cars. Their is always something you wish was a little different. . That’s personal preference . Me for example do not like “the looks”. Of newer boats . And if I were to survey boat owners. How many actually buy a new boat. With a warranty. And all that. . I didn’t. Never have. Of course. Someone boat it new. . The criteria I was searching for. My boat provides all that. Stigma be damned. She’s a great. Good looking Great sailing beauty of a sailboat. .
I agree with your points about the HC50 (beautiful design) and I also agree with that comment the owner made. It looked tiny inside - cavernous actually! Hull speed is 16.65 km/h btw. Great video!
We went for a 2004 Hunter 306 last year, something we never thought we'd buy. We were sold on the headroom down below (we're all over 6' tall) and the space in the cockpit for our whole family. To our surprise, she's fast, too! The one thing I don't like is that she only has 2 winches. I'd prefer 4.
funny last week I flew down to Florida to look at a Hunter Legend 37 only reason I am not makeing an offer is I want to wait until after my Bareboat certification course in January :D... love the 37 shoal draft so much
The shoal draft is great for when they drop the level of the Great Lakes at the tail end of the season and youre still able to have access to almost every shallow harbour.
I've been looking for a solid used sail boat for two years now and after stepping on several boat manufacturers I narrowed my search down to Hunter, so the title of this video got my attention. All I can say is you sneaky little devil, you got me. I basically came to the same conclusions and I've been impressed by the brand. Jealousy is so unbecoming.
Your comment about the lack of a back stay is noted. If you have a close look at many late model boats there is no back stay, cats included, have no back stay. In mast main sails are crap. But they look good. , Are they for cruising boats,. probably not. I dislike furling my head sails but I can not lift them as they are too bloody big and heavy so changing my head sails and hanking on a smaller one is not an option when sailing short handed and most times we all sail shorthanded. You and your lady. I have twin back stays on my Beneteau and regardless of what out modern trends are or the experts design I would not go into the ocean on a long voyage without a back stay and preferably an inner fore stay and spreaders to the width of my deck. Why, simply because it just give the mast some more support to prevent it breaking or falling over, I have not done the math but I think too much emphasis has been placed on having cruising and day sailers with racing style riigs rather than strong well supported structures, I never found it necessary when I was cruising to have to point so hard to make a mark. I just ease off to keep the boat sailing fast and give it power to cut through the waves and tack if i really have to. Watch a video of a yacht sailing into ocean swell and watch the pitch back and forward. Look at the movement back and forward of the top of the mast and the sails. The mast pitches forward and stops dead as it ploughes into a wave and then pitches back as it climbs the swell and forward and back. And you dont have backstay. Maybe not necessary but I think a very cheap way of strengthening your rig.
Very articulate and sentimental look at boat designs. You're right about purpose-built vs. local cruiser capabilities. Hunters do have great interior design and other points, great for Bay-sailors.
My last boat was a Tartan 37 CB. Loved it. A really sweet S & S design. One of the most well behaved easily sailed boats that I have ever sailed. And as a charter Captain and Instructor I have sailed many! It balanced well, sailed well in both heavy and light airs. And I rarely needed to put the board down. About the only time that you would need to put it down is clawing off a lee shore or racing upwind. It was a 1983 and I sold her last year.
I agrree. even the beautiful 6 year old swan 54 in the pen next to my yacht is not a floating condo. Just about every cat in the yacht club is a floating condo. So much weight on board they are to far down in the water to sail as well as they could. Unbelievable what some people have on their 45 ft cats. One guy has solar panels on every available part of the deck and has added a large panel on his stern of his cat so he can runs water maker and airconditioner and etc etc etc when he is away for the yacht club. Both his engines have 180 amp alternators also. Carries 720 ltrs of diesel. Carries huge amount of water plus containers of diesel also. Im sure he did not read the makers recomendation or builders weight restrictions. heheheh each to his own
Especially the MacGregor 26 motor/power boat. However, It appears to me the people trashing them the most never owned one. I have never been on one, but McGregor sold a ton of them.
@@MichaelGa you are correct. The6 sold a lot of these things. However, I believe it was solely based on cost, as they are possibly the cheapest made boats available. They are really just toy boats.
HI there! Would it be possible to retitle this as American Hunter please? The British Hunter is a completely different brand it would be great to differentiate between the two. Many thanks!
We have enjoyed our Hunter 54 since 1984... she was still 'new' then as she had not been sold or titled. This is a superb ocean going sloop. We have had her in offshore storms over 60 knots, never a worry. She sleeps 6 very comfortably. Our "Valkyrie" looks and sails like new. Her hull is superb, light but strong. Lots of room in the cabin, 2 good heads. We added 100 gallon holding tanks for the heads, with power pumps for offshore. She has two big spinnakers, new main and 120 jib. Our daughter grew up on her, learned to walk on her. We will keep her until we go to the great sloop in the sky! (;-) The Kaboda (Universal Atomic - love the name!) has run smoothly since we got her, never a worry! We sail Galveston Bay almost every weekend, and do a few longer cruises each year. They are great values for such a big boat! Big and Safe!
I own a Hunter Passage 450, one of the larger boats. It is a small 2 bedroom apartment on the water. But....I have taken it on the water a lot, and each time I take her out it is a blast. I am not the original owner. Upgrades that came with the boat has made it very capable. My only wish for my Hunter is that I am not yet retired and able to spend more time on her and more time on the water. I intend to keep my Passage 450 until my bitter end.
I too was curious about the video. I currently own a 1989 Hunter 28. I have no complaints. I have sailed it in heavy weather and light. from 25 knot winds to zero wind. motored it 80 miles. My only advice, if you don't like it, sell it, buy something you do, and sail on. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Richard.
After owning a Hunter Vision 32, (which has a VERY strange rig) I wanted a larger liveaboard. After looking at a lot of boats, I ended up finding and purchasing a Hunter 466 this spring. It has been amazing! She is roomy and beautiful, an absolute dream to sail, and I couldn't be happier!
I love my 1983 hunter 31. Live aboard with very many upgrades. I am 73 with 40 years of sailing and 30 years of living aboard with seafarer and Pearson vanguard as the longest time spent aboard.
I just don't see what you think is "pretty" about that Hunter HC50, Tim. I can list a dozen boats I'd consider a lot prettier, especially some of the other Hunters. The HC50 looked like a stripped-down racing yacht, with jutting angular windows. I guess it's all a question of taste but I sure wouldn't buy it for its looks. I'd consider the Legend or the Catalinas to be a much prettier design over this!
the curves of the hard dodger's trailing edge, and the hinged watertight entry made me think it was something ready to go take on the Vendee Globe. A big boat is always easier to have more presence and grandeur, to give live-able volume with swoopy lines... but I don't know if that counts as good design when it isn't working around the shortfalls of 35 foot interior in a 50 foot body.
Hey tim good seris as you build cash up. A year ago i was looking at i think it was an older irwin 32 center cockpit for 3k. Rough boat. Bigger than i wanted. Irwin? Thoughts? It a good thing to put out stuff on these older boats. First i have seen it...
I used to own a 1979 Hunter 30’ with teak trim (not deck). It was a great boat, 6’ keel and heavy. So much space. Loved the boat. Now I own a 1963 Seawind 30. 4.5’ keel and so small on the inside. Probably a better cruiser though.
My wife and I are full-time cruisers on our '89 Legend 40. B&R rig with split backstays. She sails like a dream and is a very balanced boat. There is a tendency to porpoise a bit, sailing to wind, but she does it quite well. With the proper trim, we have pointed as high as 27 degrees, with new sails. Our first priority, in the selection of a boat was liveability. 3+ years later, we are happy with our choice. Extensive offshore sailing on this boat and no complaints about the interior layout not being conducive to a big seaway. She sails fast and steady and is as solid. I have many complaints about things like electrical and plumbing that are common to all production boats but seaworthiness and safety are not on that list. There is something special about the Legend series boats. You would do well to consider the boats from that series and around that era. No, we don't have the joinery of a Swan but we have more room in the salon on our 40' than on a 65' Swan!
I'd like to thank all the interweb boat experts for badmouthing Hunters non-stop. The result is I just bought a very nice '88 Legend 35 for $6700. Actually, paid 4800, but storage and launch next may is $1925. IMHO, the 80-90s Legend series is the best buy out there. A comparable Catalina or Benny might bring 20k.
I'm glad you're talking about the newer version, my brothers 33 is "bullet proof" has a proper backstay, a HUGE cabin and sails like a witch, particularly off the wind.
Nope. Hunter has a bad rep because un knowledgeable owners buy them since they “dress” sleekly but are not blue water boats. Both the boat and the captain are pretending. As you note there are hunter exceptions.
Thought I was going to have to unsubscribe after seeing the title. Great video and excellent discussion about Hunters, though, and you were dead on with the problem of being able to let the main out all the way for wing on wing due to swept back spreaders of the B&R rig. All things considered, though, I'm pretty happy with my H410!
Here is a comparison of the new Marlow Hunter 40 and the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1. There is no comarison, the Hunter wins hands down! www.marlow-hunter.com/large-keelboats-40-50-feet/the-40-a-new-level-of-design-performance-and-luxury/nggallery/page/2 www.beneteau.com/us/oceanis/oceanis-401 sailboatdata.com/compare/results?
I have owned 2 hunter Cherubini cruisers ,during my 46 years of sailing and owning 16 cruising sailboats . Although my current Shannon 42 is my favorite. I don't believe a thirty something bar fly,in a apartment in Canada, is to be taken as a credible athority.The Cherubini design boats are terrific. My subscription is closed.
Love the new theme. I’ve been telling some of my sailing channel friends for awhile that somebody ought to do a Doug Demuro style “quirks and features” series for sailboats. Well done.
We went from a full keel cutter rigged Bayfield to a B&R rigged Hunter 410 and couldn't be happier. Our boat has the go fast options of a deep draft keel (6'6") made of lead not cast iron, and a slab reefed mainsail. We further improved the sailing performance when getting new sails by going with a square topped main (something you can do when there isn't a backstay) with full battens, and vertical battens in the 110 headsail. We can sail wing on wing but lose a bit of VMG over sailing at a deep broad reach. I prefer deep broad reaching as there are less accident gybe risks and less rolling. However there are times when sailing between two islands in a narrow area where we need to sail wing on wing and do just fine. The boat sails very well, is close winded for a comfortable boat, and is extremely easy to maneuver in close quarters. The only real negatives are the high side decks which can make stepping off a challenge, and I would have preferred a little more locker space in the cockpit. Otherwise I far prefer the boat to the Bene 423, and Bavaria 42 from the same era. We carry 600 litres of water and 180 litres of diesel., and have 750 a/hrs of house bank. They are not just great boats for the dollar, they are great boats period. ua-cam.com/video/W_Ls2tatT20/v-deo.html
Nice to see someone who owns a 410 with actual experience with other boats. Do you feel that the 410 tend to hobby horse a little? I have read reviews that mentioned they tended so at certain angles of wind. I have been eyeing one for sale at a good price.
Wow...yes a bit of click bait there. I have owned MANY sailboats in my lifetime...we have owned sailed our 1984 Hunter 31 and am very pleased with it. We know it's limitations and we completely rebuilt the boat in 2003 when we bought it. As far as a production sailboat it has typical problems that Catalina, C and C, Mirage, all pretty much have. All production boats have their own issues with quality, etc., Our boat cruises well for my wife and I, it all races very well in our local PHRF fleet and we have killed many boats that we shouldn't beat but we still do! My wife and I love this boat that we have sailed for 18+ years. So whatever pleases you I suppose and yes I also like the Legend 37.5 as well! Great video....Thanks Mike 🇨🇦 🍁 👍
Sounds like all the manufactures are building boats for what they are used 98% of the time which is coastal. Sounds like they are building the right tool for the job most are using them for.
If you don’t understand the rigging, try to walk passed it on a Beneteau or Jeannau with all the acrobatic that’s required. Now imagine having to do so on rough seas. Now walk passed the Hunter rigging, easy as pie - you just walk fully erect in between the stays.
Our hunter 34 saved our lives on numerous occasions, storms like many ppl couldn't believe. I own me life to that boat! Maybe you make some great points, but the yanmar engine and hull saved our lives LITERALLY. And maybe because it was a 90's boat. I haven't had a newer one. But I respect your opinion and haven't had a new one. Also I didn't hear a single negative comment about Hunter? Is the title wrong?
Really like the Marlow Hunter 50. Pretty much the same hull as the popular 49, with greatly improved fit and finish along with a few other enhancement upgrades. Never sailed one, nor the 49, but it does seem like a very attractive boat. If the performance matches or comes close to the beauty of the interior, it probably is a buy compared to the Beneteau 49/50 and equivalent Jeanneau. I guess Catalina's entry in that range of boat would be the 470. Which do you like? Have you sailed the H-50 aft cockpit?
Okay, I'm about 2 years out from retiring and buying my "forever" boat. Which is currently the Hunter Legend 40.5 rigged/equipped for transatlantic crossings, .based somewhat on your favorable reviews. Am I going down the wrong path? I want to revive my sailing career and sail around the world,. Is it a fools errand to think that a properly outfitted HL 40.5 could deliver that experience?
Appreciate this breakdown on Hunter's. I own a '76 cherubini/ Hunter, 37' cutter rig. Chesapeake Bay. Been thinking about upsiziing in my retirement but, I think I'll just put my money into upgrading mine.
In Washington State it helps a lot to have an adjustable Backstay for light wind 🌬 which is our primary conditions here. We really have to watch the Tides and Current here and use proper Seamanship. 😏❤️🖖🏼⛵️🇺🇸
I fly a Bene now but I've had and love the Hunters. Had an 88' 30-2 named her Exodus. B&R rig, raked mast but she was one with the backstay. Bacon sails in Annapolis had to come out and take 3D measurements of the rig as they never get calls to make sails on a bent mast setup. 30' with a 56' mast. Odd right. Huge inside and over 7kts speed in 15kt winds. Never lost a race. Btw, when you guys were anchored that year you were just off our shore dock... We passed you a few times. I showed my wife your videos while we were out daysailimg. The 50C is a rare bird!!! Very rare. Luhrs was a PA resident where i live. When his estate went up for sale we took a lot of his books out prior to sale. But Marlow Hunter didn't want them. Has his notes and hand written ideas in them. I'm holding onto them till they mean what i think they are worth to them, then they can have them.
Here’s a theory: lots were made. Buyers of Hunters are enthusiastic sailors. Possibly loud and proud, and vocal about all aspects of their crafts. If I’m right, there may be more noise about Hunter than statistically actually having more problems. Whatchyathink? It’s a theory..,
I love my Hunter 36. It's the most comfortable boat I have ever seen in that size that also has plentiful storage. Like the video says, the rig limits your options going downwind BUT that's what a spinnaker is for. Also, Hunter got a bad rep because it did have a couple years where quality suffered.
Just commented about my $500.00 Hunter 23.5 on a more recent post of yours. Yes, the boat is "poorly built". Odd dual cast steel/flip keel design, "plasticish" feel to the interior. Odd, (almost no bilge) structural sandwich with embedded electronics/wires, for the keel bolt/mast post and a very breakable pseudo bulkhead that I need to rebuild (detached stay plate). The cast steel keel seems "too much" and the flip keel "linkage" or "mechanics" are confusing with maybe sketchy performance aspects? A light boat with a good quality trailer ~ has a five foot "extension" function. ??? aaand thank you so much for showing off that Hunter 50! Wow!
Testing Hunter sailboats, for anyone questioning the strength of Hunter sailboats here is a video of a new Hunter being grounded at full hull speed repeatedly. Every new model of the larger boats from around 2000 on were subjected to this test. ua-cam.com/video/im52WJQ8E_U/v-deo.html
I worked at hunter for 10 years, last few years 03/04 doing engine stage on the 44, I always felt like they were a solid build seeing everything from the inside, I am really just now being drawn tawrds sailing and could see buying one should the right deal come along..
I watched to 11:05 and didn’t hear anything that supported the title. I heard a few; “…..but that’s just me.” And couple, “…..but that’s just my opinion.” And, “……but that’s just internet……”. And then it became but the real reason is, and you really want to hear this…. And nothing….as as I typing, it’s still playing so I tuned back in to hear that the hunter 50 is the coolest hunter ever made….. What are you even talking about?
Amongst serious sailors, rightly or wrongly, they got a reputation for designing the boat interior to be as comfy as possible and then fitting a hull around it. This after they left racer cruisers behind. And, they got a reputation as poor sailing boats with the racer cruiser crowd. We looked at a Hunter Marlowe 33 at a boat show because a friend had just put down a deposit on one. The first thing I always do is to walk the deck and imagine myself doing same in a big sea. No issues, but I saw that the waste pump-out fitting was literally 1/2 inch from a water inlet. Hmmm. Then I looked in the anchor locker and saw that it was really shallow such that the chain was likely to bunch up and jam the windlass. The cabins were absolutely great. A sales person asked what I thought - I very politely told her of my two issues on the deck. She just turned around and walked away!
I owned Hunter 2008 49 3years later I did sold the boat. My main complaint was Down wind sailing sucks Access to any equipment sucks. Impossible the do any maintenance onboard basic 15min. repair sometimes takes me 3-4 hours due to accessibility. Just the replace replace generator starter I have to rigged Entire generator. out of the bilge to get access to starter. I can even imagine replacing main engine starter. As Hunter 49 2008 goes Great interior Lots of living space and great interior layout. I think when they build the boat main focus was all about give much space possible and make it look beautiful. and Hide or dump the equipment in the bilges and unacceptable location. Impossible the run a cables to upgrade electronics or add equipments. Only reason I sold my boat due to Impossible to access the equipments. Iam an 30 year professional marine engineer and I do all my maintenance and repairs. For your UA-cam watchers Before you purchase any boat make sure your boat have enough access to your equipments. Maintenance and repairs cost lots of money. If you are going to replace small part on the equipment You shouldn't have to remove entire equipment to get access to the part.
Well this is from the H240, H260 and all the larger Hunters with the B & R rig no back stay. I agree the idea was a really large main and a smaller jib although most owners increase the jib 130 for example. No you don’t want to go with a 150 or larger jib because of the B & R rig an lack of a back stay puts tremendous pressure on the side shrouds and mast. But I wouldn’t say no likes a Hunter. For lake a costal sailing you can’t beat them..
Looking at a 1996 hunter 336 to replace our 1985 C&C 29. looking for a boat that will be much easier and more comfortable for our 75 year old parents while we maintain the boat and use it as well up here in BC Canada. Thoughts?
I too was somewhat disturbed by the title of this video, but agree that it is a fair analysis of the brand for which I designed (as you were kind enough to mention) for about four years in the mid-90s. However, a couple of corrections. The driving force behind Hunter was the late Warren Luhrs whose best friend was Lars Bergstrom (also now deceased). Warren and Lars sailed many miles together offshore in a boat called Thursday's Child, and then in another called Hunter's Child in which Steve Pettingill was also involved. (The "HC"in HC 50, stands for Hunter's Child, and is in fact a production version of that boat with more cruising amenities). It was this close relationship between Warren and Lars that led to Warren's whole hearted adoption of the B&R (Bergstom & Ridder) rig in Hunters. Lars, by the way also invented and marketed the Windex wind indicator that every boat now has at their masthead. Warren knew that he was building Chevrolets not Cadillacs, but that was his brand concept. He, like many other builders, also knew that he could not compete in the market with the many used boats available, so had to offer something different that would appeal to people new to sailing as well as to the existing market. The fact that Hunter, along with Catalina and Beneteau, were the last higher volume production builders left in North America speaks well to his marketing concept. I didn't always agree with Warren's concepts, especially in his total commitment to the B&R rig, but it was his company and I have to say he didn't make many mistakes. However, your title was still a little deceiving. ;-)
So right you are Robert. I met Warren a few times at different events. Listened to him speak at a couple. Very impressive guy. Thanks for the extra info.
Robert Mazza,
You did some excellent work at Hunter.
Your statements about Hunter's very successful line of boats dating back to the seventies up to today are bang on. Hunter never had any illusions about competing with Swan, Baltic, Hinckley, or even somewhat upscale manufacturers such as S2, CSY, Valiant, C&C, Tartan, and others. Many of these brands built for genuine blue water capability, safety, and seaworthiness, but that is not what most people want in a boat. The typical boater, even one who buys a large boat, never goes more than a few miles offshore, and most never leave sight of land. The owners of Hunter knew this and targeted the largest percentage of the market effectively.
Hunter very rightly targeted the market for sailors who wanted to do mostly coastal family cruising, day sailing, club events such as raft-ups and club races, all in fair weather. Hunter targeted the market of sailors who want a low priced large boat that pleases their family and who have control over what weather the boat is likely to encounter due to the daysailing and coastal cruising emphasis. This market turned out to be the vast majority of general public sailors. There are far more people who can afford to pay two hundred thousand for a forty or so foot Hunter than a million or more for a Hinckley of the same length. As an added bonus, the Hunter has an interior which is better suited for the typical general public sailor.
The fact that Hunter is still in business after the market crash of 2008 is testament to the marketing genius and commitment to building a reasonably well made, safe, roomy boat for a decent price. Most other manufacturers who built for this market are out of business, and not for lack of quality, or they are catering to the rich.
"don't buy" as a come-on-in strapline is a bit naff and overused, time it was dumped by bloggers and vloggers. But very happy with this gentleman's reviews, and now trawling the internet for Hunters since I'm in the market. Sad that some people and journalists just have to have a kicking stool, Hunters might bounce back as a 'must have' one day🙃.
@@mboyer68 Good question I would be very interested to know myself.
God Bless you for your contribution to the Sailing ⛵️ World and helping us smaller budget Families have a wonderful Vessel that’s forgiving and easy to Sail well even with low experience. I appreciate it even though I’m very experienced I now find value in an excellent design over sparkly nifty luxury items 😏❤️🖖🏼 Fair Winds Good Sir! 💨
I own a Hunter 49. Offshore cruiser, great boat. I’ve been in storms offshore with this boat and have never had any issues.
I’ve owned many sailboats over my 35 years of old adult sailing and now own a 2007 Hunter 49. Very pleased with the build quality, live aboard space, systems, and handling.
Had a 1989 Hunter legend 40 that I really loved for 6 years. Aft cabin under the cockpit was excellent and 360 deg access to the engine compartment. Plenty of storage and reasonable speed. I checked all the hull tabbing and chainplates all were intact and done properly. The almost flush deck was a nice feature too. It is great for what it was designed for. My 2 cents. YMMV.
This made me want to get one, lol 😂
As a US Sailing instructor teaching for the school that certified more ocean sailors than any other (especially on the west coast). We had a fleet of Hunters ,Jenneaus, and Beneteau boats. Up to a 50 boat fleet. Almost all Cruising boats 30-50’. We did a lot of offshore sailing out the Golden Gate. This was often very challenging conditions. I remember bashing up the N. Cal coast into big steep waves trying to get to where I could tuck. We dropped off a big wave with a hole behind it so hard that we flung the radar off of the mast. Ripped it right off! No damage to anything else. In big following seas they seemed to have more control than the afore mentioned boats too. So no, Hunter is not the ideal boat but they absolutely do not deserve the reputation that they have. And while not crazy about the B &R rig, I did love the arch. Now many boats copied this as the did the “margarita seats astern”. Hunter was not afraid to try new things. We had very little problems with the B &R rigs but we also had very experienced riggers to set them up properly.
Also don’t forget Mike Harker single handing a Hunter 446 around the world twice! And he had significant physical handicaps.
Fred, what size hunter did you take out the gate. Would you take a 36 out?
@@debbyhight8573 Yes. That was our size range for going out with classes. Typically 36-38. And of course up into the forty plus length, but mostly 36-38. Additionally we had these boats insured for ocean a properly equipped. With all safety gear and beyond. But yes, Hunter 36 just fine properly maintained and equipped. A key factor is being equipped safely. If going more that just poking your nose out the Gate, epirb, mob strobe, life raft, good ground tackle and of course all the coat guard requirements, spare parts, tools vhf, proper navigational tools and know how to use them etc. N. Cal can have some challenging conditions and that includes cold water that you wouldn’t want to be in very long. So at least something that can get you out of the water and an EPIRB. I carry an EPIRB everywhere I sail. Even bay.
But yes, have spent a lot of time and miles off shore N CA. In a hunter 36.
My family has owned a 2001 Hunter 410 for 10 years (we are the second owner) - we have sailed all over New England with our 3 children and our dog - we have sometimes lived on the boat for weeks and weeks during the summer going from anchorage to anchorage - never once have we regretted it or have we complained about how it sails - we have taken it into high winds with 12 foot seas (not by choice) and it has performed just fine. Everything is accessible and designed to be easily maintained compared to higher end vessels. We look at boats all the time, but we can never justify the higher prices, the lack of room/accommodations, and the difficult to access systems on other sailboats. It is interesting to also see the comments about Bavaria yachts - I sailed a Bavaria 50 for a week - we were 246 miles north of the Arctic Circle and went through a gale force storm with waves at 6 meters (18 ft) once again it did just fine.....trust me I would love to buy a Halberg-Rassy, Little Harbor, or the like - but for a Family of 5 and a dog who wants to sail, be comfortable, and not break the bank (money or time) fixing things - Hunters are great boats!
I concur, my wife and I are in our fifty’s and sixty’s. We sail our Hunter 41 along the coasts of New England and most of Long Island. The boat is easy for two to handle. It’s never let us down even some crazy pop up squalls that seem to have become violent. I’ve been sailing since 1982 on all kinds of boats and I don’t know what the dig about Hunter is all about.
I have a friend I have known and sailed on his 30 year old hunter for last 15 years. Its a 42 ft Hunter normally resident in the Yacht Club pen in Subic Bay next to My 44 ft Beneteau. His hunter has sailed all over Asia and to Australia from Philippines and is currently sailing around Borneo. For a 30 year old boat its still in extremely good condition with no deterioration in the exterior gel coat or fiberglass and no delaminations or cracks down below. I been sailing for 40 years and his hunter is a great sea boat and great interior lay out and has load of little extras that that are part of the boat. Its sturdy and has little flex in rough weather, I spent 3 days on her in Puerto Galera a few year ago in a typhoon on a mooring. we were swinging side to side in the wind about 160 deg. No I did not have a car tyre on board to throw in the water to slow the swing. The most frightening thing was the constant howl of the wind. Hardly stopped. The were no creaks of groans or strange noises that make you wonder if something is wrong. yes there was the occasional slap of ropes and halyards and deck fittings but most boats creak and groan in rough water. The Hunter did not and still does not. Its to my mind a very well designed and very well built boat probably more so then many newer designs that go more for looks and creature comforts than sea kindly features and peace of mind that something in not going to break.
I've had 3 Hunters a 28.5 a Legend 35 and now a Legend 40.5. Hunter built great boats and it was sad to see them go bankrupt as they were a great company under Warren. They were way ahead of the production industry with all the innovations. I remember the industry laughing at the arch designs, now it's almost standard on beneteaus. Hunter has a huge following of loyal sailors and I still find myself looking for my next. Thinking 456 passage for that huge aft cabin..
Bad review and the title is misleading. In His other review he praises a Hunter. Every boat has its pro’s and con’s there’s always a trade off. He also states that he would love to own w Hunter 37. So the stigma comes Bad reviews on the internet and social media. The title is just click bait to watch his channel.
We owned a 1991 Hunter 433 (ex charter) which we lived aboard for 5 years. Our plan was to sail from Florida to Australia and when friends and dock mates heard this commented that Hunters weren’t ‘blue water’ boats. Well, we spent 12 months sailing to Australia and didn’t break anything. This doesn’t mean all Hunters are blue water boats, just that if you’re careful ( as you should be) then most trips are possible.
My 85 Hunter 40 has everything we want.., including a back stay😎
Great objective summary.
I have a 2015 MH37, as you showed in your video, and love it. No quality issues at all. It is a coastal cruiser, as you’ve described all production boats, with tons of space. I find I can out perform most other cruisers of my size and slightly larger, but my sails are new in comparison and I’m a previous racer that knows how to trim a boat for speed. My only complaints are the chain locker which is undersized and minor gelcoat cracking that all newer production boats seem to suffer from. On the B&R rig, I love it in combination with the mainsheet arch. Opens up the cockpit and makes trimming the boom supper easy. My main is huge in comparison to other boats and although the sweptback spreaders limit the ability to let the main out, the extra main sail area more than compensates and propels the boat downwind admirably. Adding a genaker or code zero and a whisker pole solves downwind performance. Yes, the added cross stays add complexity to the rig, but once you learn how to tension the rig, you can get a much better static and absolutely rigid shape from the rig than you will ever get from a rig with a backstay. I have in-mast furling so knowing the rig will furl regardless of wind speed is priceless. When I see in-mast fullers that have jammed the rigs almost always have too much rake in them. And, if you want to add rake while sailing you can always add running back stays to better work the main. But then why did you buy in-mast furling?
All my two cents worth. I know my boat could cross an ocean, and know a few hunters that have. I’m not likely to do it, but that’s not how I use the boat. Perfect coastal cruiser for my needs.
Thanks for your info and honest thoughts & reviews... Today I was accepted on my offer for a 1986 Hunter 34 in pristine condition. Immaculate inside & out. I'm blown away by how "new" she really is. She'll be my first boat and I am looking forward to the new adventure.. Love your vids, keep up the good work. I'll drop you a thank you via Paypal when I get home for your content & info.. Thanks again. P.S. - I was accepted at 26k in this market..
I had no idea hunter had a bad rep, but boy howdy does Macgregor get a lot of crap.
WRONG! I love hunters! This guy's a fool! He's the only one that dislikes Hunters! LMAO!
I find it funny how well Catalina is regarded yet just about every 1970s to 1988 27 to 30 (10,000s) boats will need a new compression post, keel-sub and have keel bolt issues as well. The compression post you have rip out the floor and bulkheads. Hunter Cherubini and others you just replace a metal T for a compression post that is easy to get to and etc. The Hunter's are not having the major structural issues that the Catalina's in large numbers. Granted they fixed the issues in 1988 but 10,000 boats is still a lot with these major problems. Not to mention the B&R rig with internal structure is much stronger than stays connected to bulkheads...
You really ‘got me going’ with the title of this vid. I bought a Hunter Legend 375 (1993) three years ago in spite of all the negativity. It is a great boat. Sails well, great accommodation, the teak interior is gorgeous, reliable Yanmar power. Good job on the video. Keep up the good work.
I like my Hunter 356. I have noticed that many of the worst Hunter bashers don't even own a boat.
We juste get a Hunter Legend 37! Really happy with!
So a Hunter 37.5 wouldn't be a good Caribbean cruiser im a little confused as the boat im looking at spent allot of time there??
Really makes no difference. Just like a race car driver who can
max out any car, a good sailor can effectively sail any boat. Everything else is just creature comforts and subjective choices.
The reviews are useful but the reviewer is not fully knowledgeable on Hunters, so this is just one man’s opinion. Given that, the title is completely irresponsible.
I don’t have a Hunter but have sailed on them more than this guy, and here are some thoughts. He says he doesn’t “get” the B&R rig. It is definitely a trade off. The boom can’t go all the way out so if you love dead down wind wing on wing sailing (I don’t) this is an issue. But these boats sail downwind fine. The advantages are it is a very stable rig with force spread out so less deck compression, and less obstruction in the cockpit and with the bimini. Also, the rig allows it to carry a larger main and this enables a smaller foresail, which if you want easy stable family oriented single handing can actually be a good trade off. The cockpits are huge. The hulls and designs on Hunters are as good or better than similar Beneteaus. Some are technically ocean rated though the overall design is coastal cruiser. The interiors are terrific and less “euro” than Beneteaus. The traveler on the arch is easy to manage from the helm, as are all the controls. If you are a dad essentially single handing family and friends these 2000s Hunters are super easy and safe boats to sail and they are comfortable and fun.
I was told to never buy a McGeger sailboat, it was my fist sailboat. i have so so many great memories on that old boat. No, i wasnt cruising the Bahamas so it was perfect for us. not everyone can ignore the price of a boat, count yourself as very lucky to even make a video like this. i dont own a Hunter but still it offends me. not sure if i like this vid. Never??? really?? says you! i know plenty of happy Hunter owners.
We had a hunter 36 for over 10 years and still think it is one of the best boats for the great lakes. It sails much better and faster than non hunter owners typically think. Lot’s of space and never had any significant issues with the build quality. Directly downwind wasn’t great, but altering course slightly off true downwind always worked. It could point very high into the wind with speed.
There is a lot of confusion on these models. There is the 37, 37.5, and the 375. The 37 legend is the older model with back stay and centerline rear . no sugar scoop. The 37.5 legend is a newer model with back stay and sugar scoop like from 1990-1996. The 375 is the newest Model with no back stay. From 1996 to ? The 1990-1996 legend 37.5 is an awesome boat that is more than capable. Same goes for the 40 and 40.5 legends just more expensive. If you checked out one of the mid 90’s legend in person it should be high on the list compared to other production models.
The Nickleback of boats. Everybody hates them, but nobody can tell you why.
our 84 Hunter 34 has B&R rigging..... also a back stay.
Mine too. It’s what I have and I absolutely love the boat for Great Lakes sailing.
My 85 h34 as well
Same here, Cortland Steck design, fast right? Love my H34.
As a proud owner of a Hunter 50 center cockpit I take objection to your overview of Hunter boats. Few boats, production of not offer the amenities and high and dry comfort of this vessel. At 40,000 pounds, it is comparable to many none production center cockpits at half the cost. For a cruising family, this boat should not be overlooked.
I’m a relatively inexperienced sailor and have studied many many boats tours etc. trying to figure out the boat I would want and have arrived at the Hunter 50 centre cockpit. Great to hear you like yours so much.
Who on earth would like to have 18 ( or any number over 6) people having dinner onboard?????
My 1991 Hunter 30 has been a real joy. It has lived through many a storm here in Florida. It is easy to singlehanded, has a split backstay, spacious interior with much, much more storage and well thought out than similar Catalinas and Beneteaus. I am always amazed at how much more my 30 can store in her transom lockers , cockpit and interior compartments. Not silly open shelving that looks fine as long as you don't use it. Real cabinets with doors. I have had the boat 11 years and am only having to look for a new one now that an improperly moored boat broke free and hit mine during a tropical storm, while mine stayed firm on her mooring.
I went from west to east twice, first in 1998 Hunter 450 cc and second in 2003 hunter 456 cc and both had no problem and I still use what I bought in 2003
Lack of being able to go wing-on-wing would be my smallest concern with a Hunter. In my experience wing on wing is generally the same or slower VMG than broad reaching, less comfortable (especially with the rolling motion in large seas). You're also less maneuverable going wing on wing when using a pole. I can't think of a situation that wing-on-wing would be preferable, really, but that's just my experience. My biggest concern with a B&R rig would be upwind performance. Not having a backstay, or better yet an adjustable backstay, means you can't tension the forestay and flatten out he main, which would suck for sailing close-hauled. B&R's are probably best for beam or broad reaching, just a guess because i've never sailed on one and am no authority on them.
I have 2002 hunter 356 with B&R rig, no back stay. I appreciate your fair comments. I dont have any problems going up wind, but I am not racing... so maybe there maybe a little performance that I am missing out on. but my boat seems to do just fine compared to other boats I encounter on the bay.
We just bought Hunter 320, we love everything about it....
LOVE our Hunter380! Sails great with tons of room below and in the cockpit! Our liveaboard😎😁
Have you ever done any open ocean passages on it? I keep being drawn to the Hunters as a live aboard, but keep hearing so many different opinions 😔
Lived aboard my Hunter 375 for 6 years...loved it.
I was looking at some fairly high-end boats. Hunters weren't even on my list as an option. My broker talked me into looking at a Hunter. I immediately realized the bang for buck factor. My Hunter 41 Deck Salon interior has more solid wood than Beneteau or Jeanneau.
a winch is a winch on a hunter or any other boat, so is the engine, so are the sheets, so is the prop, the Hunter has all the same bits bats as all other boats, so I do not agree with this.
I want a Bikini Girl! But, my wife objects...so does my gerontologist...so boat videos it is...
But the 18.5 sucks more than the average electrolux..in design, sailing, build, however...
Bro!! I have a hunter 37c... U have made an enemy for life!! 😂😂😂lol
The "production" hunters also have externally turned hull deck flanges which is consisdered one of the weakest joints ( but easiest for production assembly) also every "shoal draft" hunter i have seen of this era tends to have rudders deeper than their shoal drat keels ( you cal usually tell if they've been aground but teh lack of antifouling on the bottom 6-8 inches of the rudder). that's really bad! though I do like the cockpit and interior layouts too!
Hunter vision is a very interesting boat too!
Before you bash Hunters you better take a look at some of the later models, especially Marlow Hunters. We have a Hunter 380 that we love and it is CE A rated, has top of the line equipment, Selden rig, Furlex furling, Lewmar winches, Harken traveler, Shafer blocks, interior has a Force 10 3 burner range, keel is lead with 1" stainless steel bolts, hull deck joint is through bolted every 6 - 8 inches with 3M 5200, all mounting points for stantions, wenches ect have aluminum backing plates molded into the fiberglass. We went through Marlow Hunters plant in 2017 as well as Catalina's plant, I am a automotive product design engineer as well as expert cabinet maker and overall I would place Hunter and Catalina about the same although I would give Hunter the edge for overall quality. We went to the 2017 Miami sailboat show and Marlow Hunter had there 47 there and as far as fit and finish and quality I would give it hands down the best sailboat in the show. I would say back when I first got into sailing in the early 80's Hunter did have some quality issues we had a 1976 8M S2 which at the time was one of the top line boats and we had seen some Hunters of this era had a bit to desire and at this time I would give Catalina the edge. Beneteau and Jeanneau used to have some very nice interiors, however, the new ones with the euro interiors look very cheap like I would expect to see in a travel trailer, if you compare the specs of the new Beneteau and Jeanneau's you will find across the board less tankage, smaller engines and less weight than a Hunter or Catalina. We looked at a couple used 40' Beneteau's mid late 90's one had servere cracking of the gellcoat all over the deck and another had carbon steel keel bolts that were only about 5/8 dia and so rusty I would not take the boat out for fear of the iron keel falling off. I asked at the boat show how the hull deck joint was done one the Beneteau's and I was told the used an adhesive sealer with a few sheet metal screws. No a Hunter is not a Island Packet, Amel, Hinkley or Swan but if these were the only boats on the market I would not be able to afford a sailboat.
Watch the video chuck
@@LadyKSailing i did watch the video, it sounded like you were mostly bashing Hunters. I have not heard you bash the Beneteau's yet there construction is not any better and I can point out where the new ones are much cheaper looking.
You almost lost me. But pulled it off. , Some of what you are talking about is almost apples and oranges. , all these brands of boats. Are boats. They all float hopefully. Ans the lasting condition of depends on the owners. How they care for the, What condition they live in. Etc etc. .. I have a 84 37c. Cherubini. Which has been taking very good care of , Of course with anything. Boats. Cars. Their is always something you wish was a little different. . That’s personal preference . Me for example do not like “the looks”. Of newer boats . And if I were to survey boat owners. How many actually buy a new boat. With a warranty. And all that. . I didn’t. Never have. Of course. Someone boat it new. . The criteria I was searching for. My boat provides all that. Stigma be damned. She’s a great. Good looking Great sailing beauty of a sailboat. .
I agree with your points about the HC50 (beautiful design) and I also agree with that comment the owner made. It looked tiny inside - cavernous actually! Hull speed is 16.65 km/h btw. Great video!
Hull speed 9 knots. I was shocked when I saw a hull speed of 16.65. I did not notice it was Km/h as typically stated.
The comment section is LIT!
Hunter is a great company I have a 2002 Hunter 240 and it is fast, stable, spacious and great quality,
We went for a 2004 Hunter 306 last year, something we never thought we'd buy. We were sold on the headroom down below (we're all over 6' tall) and the space in the cockpit for our whole family. To our surprise, she's fast, too! The one thing I don't like is that she only has 2 winches. I'd prefer 4.
funny last week I flew down to Florida to look at a Hunter Legend 37 only reason I am not makeing an offer is I want to wait until after my Bareboat certification course in January :D... love the 37 shoal draft so much
The shoal draft is great for when they drop the level of the Great Lakes at the tail end of the season and youre still able to have access to almost every shallow harbour.
Agree, also useful in the Bahamas. But like Erie is far closer to home
I've been looking for a solid used sail boat for two years now and after stepping on several boat manufacturers I narrowed my search down to Hunter, so the title of this video got my attention. All I can say is you sneaky little devil, you got me. I basically came to the same conclusions and I've been impressed by the brand. Jealousy is so unbecoming.
Your comment about the lack of a back stay is noted. If you have a close look at many late model boats there is no back stay, cats included, have no back stay. In mast main sails are crap. But they look good. , Are they for cruising boats,. probably not. I dislike furling my head sails but I can not lift them as they are too bloody big and heavy so changing my head sails and hanking on a smaller one is not an option when sailing short handed and most times we all sail shorthanded. You and your lady. I have twin back stays on my Beneteau and regardless of what out modern trends are or the experts design I would not go into the ocean on a long voyage without a back stay and preferably an inner fore stay and spreaders to the width of my deck. Why, simply because it just give the mast some more support to prevent it breaking or falling over, I have not done the math but I think too much emphasis has been placed on having cruising and day sailers with racing style riigs rather than strong well supported structures, I never found it necessary when I was cruising to have to point so hard to make a mark. I just ease off to keep the boat sailing fast and give it power to cut through the waves and tack if i really have to. Watch a video of a yacht sailing into ocean swell and watch the pitch back and forward. Look at the movement back and forward of the top of the mast and the sails. The mast pitches forward and stops dead as it ploughes into a wave and then pitches back as it climbs the swell and forward and back. And you dont have backstay. Maybe not necessary but I think a very cheap way of strengthening your rig.
Very articulate and sentimental look at boat designs. You're right about purpose-built vs. local
cruiser capabilities. Hunters do have great interior design and other points, great for Bay-sailors.
Liking the last 2 videos about different boat makers. I’d like to see one about Tartan!
My last boat was a Tartan 37 CB. Loved it. A really sweet S & S design. One of the most well behaved easily sailed boats that I have ever sailed. And as a charter Captain and Instructor I have sailed many! It balanced well, sailed well in both heavy and light airs. And I rarely needed to put the board down. About the only time that you would need to put it down is clawing off a lee shore or racing upwind. It was a 1983 and I sold her last year.
"Hunters are floating condos!"
Catamaran Broker: Hooo boy, I have, uh, news for you...
I agrree. even the beautiful 6 year old swan 54 in the pen next to my yacht is not a floating condo. Just about every cat in the yacht club is a floating condo. So much weight on board they are to far down in the water to sail as well as they could. Unbelievable what some people have on their 45 ft cats. One guy has solar panels on every available part of the deck and has added a large panel on his stern of his cat so he can runs water maker and airconditioner and etc etc etc when he is away for the yacht club. Both his engines have 180 amp alternators also. Carries 720 ltrs of diesel. Carries huge amount of water plus containers of diesel also. Im sure he did not read the makers recomendation or builders weight restrictions. heheheh each to his own
I have a 1988 Hunter Ledgend 35.5 and I love it. No issues.
I owned a 1975 Hunter Cherubini 27. I was a very good boat. All the boats the John Cherubini was involved with were good until 1981.
Mcgreggor is probably the least respected production boats.
they are good starter boats,i had a 21 for 10 years and enjoyed learning to sail.
Especially the MacGregor 26 motor/power boat. However, It appears to me the people trashing them the most never owned one. I have never been on one, but McGregor sold a ton of them.
@@MichaelGa you are correct. The6 sold a lot of these things. However, I believe it was solely based on cost, as they are possibly the cheapest made boats available. They are really just toy boats.
Not the 65...
Respected??😳
HI there! Would it be possible to retitle this as American Hunter please? The British Hunter is a completely different brand it would be great to differentiate between the two.
Many thanks!
We have enjoyed our Hunter 54 since 1984... she was still 'new' then as she had not been sold or titled. This is a superb ocean going sloop. We have had her in offshore storms over 60 knots, never a worry. She sleeps 6 very comfortably. Our "Valkyrie" looks and sails like new. Her hull is superb, light but strong. Lots of room in the cabin, 2 good heads. We added 100 gallon holding tanks for the heads, with power pumps for offshore. She has two big spinnakers, new main and 120 jib. Our daughter grew up on her, learned to walk on her. We will keep her until we go to the great sloop in the sky! (;-) The Kaboda (Universal Atomic - love the name!) has run smoothly since we got her, never a worry! We sail Galveston Bay almost every weekend, and do a few longer cruises each year. They are great values for such a big boat! Big and Safe!
I own a Hunter Passage 450, one of the larger boats. It is a small 2 bedroom apartment on the water. But....I have taken it on the water a lot, and each time I take her out it is a blast. I am not the original owner. Upgrades that came with the boat has made it very capable. My only wish for my Hunter is that I am not yet retired and able to spend more time on her and more time on the water. I intend to keep my Passage 450 until my bitter end.
I too was curious about the video. I currently own a 1989 Hunter 28. I have no complaints. I have sailed it in heavy weather and light. from 25 knot winds to zero wind. motored it 80 miles. My only advice, if you don't like it, sell it, buy something you do, and sail on. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Richard.
After owning a Hunter Vision 32, (which has a VERY strange rig) I wanted a larger liveaboard. After looking at a lot of boats, I ended up finding and purchasing a Hunter 466 this spring. It has been amazing! She is roomy and beautiful, an absolute dream to sail, and I couldn't be happier!
After looking at boats when I was younger I settled on a Hunter 42 Passage. Almost mine but a bike accident took that away.
I love my 1983 hunter 31. Live aboard with very many upgrades. I am 73 with 40 years of sailing and 30 years of living aboard with seafarer and Pearson vanguard as the longest time spent aboard.
I just don't see what you think is "pretty" about that Hunter HC50, Tim. I can list a dozen boats I'd consider a lot prettier, especially some of the other Hunters. The HC50 looked like a stripped-down racing yacht, with jutting angular windows. I guess it's all a question of taste but I sure wouldn't buy it for its looks. I'd consider the Legend or the Catalinas to be a much prettier design over this!
the curves of the hard dodger's trailing edge, and the hinged watertight entry made me think it was something ready to go take on the Vendee Globe. A big boat is always easier to have more presence and grandeur, to give live-able volume with swoopy lines... but I don't know if that counts as good design when it isn't working around the shortfalls of 35 foot interior in a 50 foot body.
I own a Hunter 701 its a great wee boat
Hey tim good seris as you build cash up. A year ago i was looking at i think it was an older irwin 32 center cockpit for 3k. Rough boat. Bigger than i wanted. Irwin? Thoughts? It a good thing to put out stuff on these older boats. First i have seen it...
I used to own a 1979 Hunter 30’ with teak trim (not deck). It was a great boat, 6’ keel and heavy. So much space. Loved the boat.
Now I own a 1963 Seawind 30. 4.5’ keel and so small on the inside. Probably a better cruiser though.
My wife and I are full-time cruisers on our '89 Legend 40. B&R rig with split backstays. She sails like a dream and is a very balanced boat. There is a tendency to porpoise a bit, sailing to wind, but she does it quite well. With the proper trim, we have pointed as high as 27 degrees, with new sails. Our first priority, in the selection of a boat was liveability. 3+ years later, we are happy with our choice. Extensive offshore sailing on this boat and no complaints about the interior layout not being conducive to a big seaway. She sails fast and steady and is as solid. I have many complaints about things like electrical and plumbing that are common to all production boats but seaworthiness and safety are not on that list. There is something special about the Legend series boats. You would do well to consider the boats from that series and around that era. No, we don't have the joinery of a Swan but we have more room in the salon on our 40' than on a 65' Swan!
I'd like to thank all the interweb boat experts for badmouthing Hunters non-stop. The result is I just bought a very nice '88 Legend 35 for $6700.
Actually, paid 4800, but storage and launch next may is $1925.
IMHO, the 80-90s Legend series is the best buy out there. A comparable Catalina or Benny might bring 20k.
I'm glad you're talking about the newer version, my brothers 33 is "bullet proof" has a proper backstay, a HUGE cabin and sails like a witch, particularly off the wind.
Mine will go damn near up wind
Nope. Hunter has a bad rep because un knowledgeable owners buy them since they “dress” sleekly but are not blue water boats. Both the boat and the captain are pretending. As you note there are hunter exceptions.
Thought I was going to have to unsubscribe after seeing the title. Great video and excellent discussion about Hunters, though, and you were dead on with the problem of being able to let the main out all the way for wing on wing due to swept back spreaders of the B&R rig. All things considered, though, I'm pretty happy with my H410!
Here is a comparison of the new Marlow Hunter 40 and the Beneteau Oceanis 40.1. There is no comarison, the Hunter wins hands down! www.marlow-hunter.com/large-keelboats-40-50-feet/the-40-a-new-level-of-design-performance-and-luxury/nggallery/page/2 www.beneteau.com/us/oceanis/oceanis-401 sailboatdata.com/compare/results?
I have owned 2 hunter Cherubini cruisers ,during my 46 years of sailing and owning 16 cruising sailboats . Although my current Shannon 42 is my favorite. I don't believe a thirty something bar fly,in a apartment in Canada, is to be taken as a credible athority.The Cherubini design boats are terrific. My subscription is closed.
I’ve had a Hunter legend 37 1988. for almost 30 years and it still a great boat .
Love the new theme. I’ve been telling some of my sailing channel friends for awhile that somebody ought to do a Doug Demuro style “quirks and features” series for sailboats.
Well done.
We went from a full keel cutter rigged Bayfield to a B&R rigged Hunter 410 and couldn't be happier. Our boat has the go fast options of a deep draft keel (6'6") made of lead not cast iron, and a slab reefed mainsail. We further improved the sailing performance when getting new sails by going with a square topped main (something you can do when there isn't a backstay) with full battens, and vertical battens in the 110 headsail. We can sail wing on wing but lose a bit of VMG over sailing at a deep broad reach. I prefer deep broad reaching as there are less accident gybe risks and less rolling. However there are times when sailing between two islands in a narrow area where we need to sail wing on wing and do just fine. The boat sails very well, is close winded for a comfortable boat, and is extremely easy to maneuver in close quarters. The only real negatives are the high side decks which can make stepping off a challenge, and I would have preferred a little more locker space in the cockpit. Otherwise I far prefer the boat to the Bene 423, and Bavaria 42 from the same era. We carry 600 litres of water and 180 litres of diesel., and have 750 a/hrs of house bank. They are not just great boats for the dollar, they are great boats period. ua-cam.com/video/W_Ls2tatT20/v-deo.html
Nice to see someone who owns a 410 with actual experience with other boats.
Do you feel that the 410 tend to hobby horse a little? I have read reviews that mentioned they tended so at certain angles of wind.
I have been eyeing one for sale at a good price.
Wow...yes a bit of click bait there. I have owned MANY sailboats in my lifetime...we have owned sailed our 1984 Hunter 31 and am very pleased with it. We know it's limitations and we completely rebuilt the boat in 2003 when we bought it. As far as a production sailboat it has typical problems that Catalina, C and C, Mirage, all pretty much have. All production boats have their own issues with quality, etc.,
Our boat cruises well for my wife and I, it all races very well in our local PHRF fleet and we have killed many boats that we shouldn't beat but we still do!
My wife and I love this boat that we have sailed for 18+ years. So whatever pleases you I suppose and yes I also like the Legend 37.5 as well!
Great video....Thanks
Mike 🇨🇦 🍁 👍
Sounds like all the manufactures are building boats for what they are used 98% of the time which is coastal. Sounds like they are building the right tool for the job most are using them for.
If you don’t understand the rigging, try to walk passed it on a Beneteau or Jeannau with all the acrobatic that’s required. Now imagine having to do so on rough seas. Now walk passed the Hunter rigging, easy as pie - you just walk fully erect in between the stays.
You summed it up well. Rumors of being cheaply made and the B&R rig make them a target for those that consider themselves the sailing elite.
Have a Hunter 30. Sails wonderful and fairs well during storms. No complaints as of yet..
3 yrs owning
I love my Hunter 33. There's a reason Hunter and Catalina are still around all these years. Great boats.
Our hunter 34 saved our lives on numerous occasions, storms like many ppl couldn't believe. I own me life to that boat! Maybe you make some great points, but the yanmar engine and hull saved our lives LITERALLY. And maybe because it was a 90's boat. I haven't had a newer one. But I respect your opinion and haven't had a new one. Also I didn't hear a single negative comment about Hunter? Is the title wrong?
Really like the Marlow Hunter 50. Pretty much the same hull as the popular 49, with greatly improved fit and finish along with a few other enhancement upgrades. Never sailed one, nor the 49, but it does seem like a very attractive boat. If the performance matches or comes close to the beauty of the interior, it probably is a buy compared to the Beneteau 49/50 and equivalent Jeanneau. I guess Catalina's entry in that range of boat would be the 470. Which do you like? Have you sailed the H-50 aft cockpit?
Great video. I love my Hunter 260.
Okay, I'm about 2 years out from retiring and buying my "forever" boat. Which is currently the Hunter Legend 40.5 rigged/equipped for transatlantic crossings, .based somewhat on your favorable reviews. Am I going down the wrong path? I want to revive my sailing career and sail around the world,. Is it a fools errand to think that a properly outfitted HL 40.5 could deliver that experience?
Appreciate this breakdown on Hunter's. I own a '76 cherubini/ Hunter, 37' cutter rig. Chesapeake Bay. Been thinking about upsiziing in my retirement but, I think I'll just put my money into upgrading mine.
I really enjoyed your video I have a 1982 Hunter 37 Cherubini and love it
In Washington State it helps a lot to have an adjustable Backstay for light wind 🌬 which is our primary conditions here. We really have to watch the Tides and Current here and use proper Seamanship. 😏❤️🖖🏼⛵️🇺🇸
I fly a Bene now but I've had and love the Hunters. Had an 88' 30-2 named her Exodus. B&R rig, raked mast but she was one with the backstay. Bacon sails in Annapolis had to come out and take 3D measurements of the rig as they never get calls to make sails on a bent mast setup. 30' with a 56' mast. Odd right. Huge inside and over 7kts speed in 15kt winds. Never lost a race.
Btw, when you guys were anchored that year you were just off our shore dock... We passed you a few times. I showed my wife your videos while we were out daysailimg.
The 50C is a rare bird!!! Very rare. Luhrs was a PA resident where i live. When his estate went up for sale we took a lot of his books out prior to sale. But Marlow Hunter didn't want them. Has his notes and hand written ideas in them.
I'm holding onto them till they mean what i think they are worth to them, then they can have them.
Here’s a theory: lots were made. Buyers of Hunters are enthusiastic sailors. Possibly loud and proud, and vocal about all aspects of their crafts. If I’m right, there may be more noise about Hunter than statistically actually having more problems. Whatchyathink? It’s a theory..,
I love my Hunter 36. It's the most comfortable boat I have ever seen in that size that also has plentiful storage. Like the video says, the rig limits your options going downwind BUT that's what a spinnaker is for.
Also, Hunter got a bad rep because it did have a couple years where quality suffered.
Just commented about my $500.00 Hunter 23.5 on a more recent post of yours. Yes, the boat is "poorly built". Odd dual cast steel/flip keel design, "plasticish" feel to the interior. Odd, (almost no bilge) structural sandwich with embedded electronics/wires, for the keel bolt/mast post and a very breakable pseudo bulkhead that I need to rebuild (detached stay plate). The cast steel keel seems "too much" and the flip keel "linkage" or "mechanics" are confusing with maybe sketchy performance aspects? A light boat with a good quality trailer ~ has a five foot "extension" function. ??? aaand thank you so much for showing off that Hunter 50! Wow!
Testing Hunter sailboats, for anyone questioning the strength of Hunter sailboats here is a video of a new Hunter being grounded at full hull speed repeatedly. Every new model of the larger boats from around 2000 on were subjected to this test. ua-cam.com/video/im52WJQ8E_U/v-deo.html
I worked at hunter for 10 years, last few years 03/04 doing engine stage on the 44, I always felt like they were a solid build seeing everything from the inside, I am really just now being drawn tawrds sailing and could see buying one should the right deal come along..
I watched to 11:05 and didn’t hear anything that supported the title. I heard a few; “…..but that’s just me.” And couple, “…..but that’s just my opinion.” And, “……but that’s just internet……”. And then it became but the real reason is, and you really want to hear this…. And nothing….as as I typing, it’s still playing so I tuned back in to hear that the hunter 50 is the coolest hunter ever made…..
What are you even talking about?
Amongst serious sailors, rightly or wrongly, they got a reputation for designing the boat interior to be as comfy as possible and then fitting a hull around it. This after they left racer cruisers behind. And, they got a reputation as poor sailing boats with the racer cruiser crowd. We looked at a Hunter Marlowe 33 at a boat show because a friend had just put down a deposit on one. The first thing I always do is to walk the deck and imagine myself doing same in a big sea. No issues, but I saw that the waste pump-out fitting was literally 1/2 inch from a water inlet. Hmmm. Then I looked in the anchor locker and saw that it was really shallow such that the chain was likely to bunch up and jam the windlass. The cabins were absolutely great. A sales person asked what I thought - I very politely told her of my two issues on the deck. She just turned around and walked away!
I owned Hunter 2008 49
3years later I did sold the boat.
My main complaint was
Down wind sailing sucks
Access to any equipment sucks. Impossible the do any maintenance onboard basic 15min. repair sometimes takes me 3-4 hours due to accessibility. Just the replace replace generator starter I have to rigged Entire generator. out of the bilge to get access to starter.
I can even imagine replacing main engine starter.
As Hunter 49 2008 goes
Great interior Lots of living space and great interior layout.
I think when they build the boat main focus was all about give much space possible and make it look beautiful.
and Hide or dump the equipment in the bilges and unacceptable location.
Impossible the run a cables to upgrade electronics or add equipments.
Only reason I sold my boat due to Impossible to access the equipments. Iam an 30 year professional marine engineer and I do all my maintenance and repairs.
For your UA-cam watchers
Before you purchase any boat make sure your boat have enough access to your equipments.
Maintenance and repairs cost lots of money. If you are going to replace small part on the equipment You shouldn't have to remove entire equipment to get access to the part.
Well this is from the H240, H260 and all the larger Hunters with the B & R rig no back stay. I agree the idea was a really large main and a smaller jib although most owners increase the jib 130 for example. No you don’t want to go with a 150 or larger jib because of the B & R rig an lack of a back stay puts tremendous pressure on the side shrouds and mast. But I wouldn’t say no likes a Hunter. For lake a costal sailing you can’t beat them..
Looking at a 1996 hunter 336 to replace our 1985 C&C 29. looking for a boat that will be much easier and more comfortable for our 75 year old parents while we maintain the boat and use it as well up here in BC Canada. Thoughts?
What is your personal opinion of a 1987 Hunter 31’ Hunter sailboat. I’m looking at one right now. I think you buy your overall view of hunters.. 😊
So is your only complaint about the Hunter the rig??