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Review of the Hunter 456 by Dr. Allen Kent

Year built 2004  
Location of boat Long Beach, CA  
The boat is sailed on Open ocean  
How the boat is used Multi-week coastal cruising  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2004  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, Absolutely! Thisis my sixth boat, and my best boat. It is a wonderful boat to sail. I've sailed her in rough seas and high winds and found her reliable and stable. The best boat for the money. I'd considered several (some much more expensive) and found that, for the money it was by far the best buy. I was quite happy with my Catalina 42 until I toured the Hunter factory in Florida. I was so impressed with the attention to detail and quality of workmanship that went into the construction of this boat. I returned home and sold my Catalina 42 and bought this 456! It sails great, is roomy and comfortable, and a delight to own.  
Gear that's been added I've really not needed to add much additional gear. It came equipped with vacu flush heads, bow thrusters, chart plotter, auto pilot, gen set, two flat screen TV's, four surround sound stereo's, radar, VHF, airconditioning, queen size bed in aft cabin, GPS., etc.  
Structural or complex improvements I have added a dodger and bimini. Also, an aft stantion for my ham radio, GPS, radar dome.  
The boat's best features The best feature is the sailing. It points very well for a cruising boat and handles like a dream. Backing the boat is a delight plus the bow thrusters make it a simple and efficient activity.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Getting to the vacu flush connection (in both the forward and aft holding tanks) has been a bit of a hastle. Both developed a leak soon after we took control of the vessel.  
Sailing characterisitcs We have sailed the boat in rough waters (open ocean) winds up to 60 knots and seas of 18 feet with no problem. Not too comfortable but stable. We have cruised from Seward, Alaska down through Canadian waters, San Juans, Seattle, Oregon coast, San Francisco, Monterey Bay, SouthernCalifornia and Mexico.  
Motoring characterisitcs Strong motoring with Yan Mar at 6 knotts for days on end.  
Liveability She is roomy and open. Plenty of open space and bright sunlight because of the ports and sky lights.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) I have been very impressed with the quality of the construction of my 456 and with the responsiveness of the Hunter Coorporation. It was as a result of a tour of the Hunter factory that I returned home, sold my Catalina 42 and purchased my new 456.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any I purchased my previous boat, a Catalina 42 from the same dealer who sells Hunters here in San Diego, H&S Yachts. They have been responsive to my requests.  
Other comments This is the best boat Hunter builds. I am very familiar with their entire line and I believe this is their best product. You will not be disappointed if you purchase a 456.  

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