Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Pearson W Buell

Year built 1993  
Location of boat Lake Saint Louis, Missouri  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1997  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? No doubt. In fact, I wish I had purchased the boat years ago when I opted for a Capri 18 instead.  
Gear that's been added No major additions.  
Structural or complex improvements No improvements, however my mast foot cracked, and the replacement I was sent was not a very good match to the one that broke. Some gridning on the piece on the deck on which the foot sits (I don't know the name) resolved the problem.  
The boat's best features For the money and size, this is a very comfortable boat for my family and guests. I have found it to be fairly stable as well, even with the water-ballast.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Besides the mast foot, and the difficulty in finding a replacement, I have had no issues.  
Sailing characterisitcs Great in light winds, a stronger breeze can get your attention. (my wife and 7 year old daughter scream a lot on windy days, my 9 year old son loves it!) My son and I just completed our first race and won(!), so it must not be too slow for our fleet.  
Motoring characterisitcs My 8hp Nissan does a nice job moving the boat, and does alright around the dock.  
Liveability My family of four has spent a few nights aboard, comfortably. My son likes to sleep aboard with his buddies.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Phone calls were not returned, however my dealer was working the same issue on my behalf and that may explain why they did not call me back.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any I purchased the boat through the St Louis Sailing Center, and the staff there could not have been more helpful or friendly.  
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