Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 30_74-83 by Terry Hamm

Year built 1965  
Location of boat Stockton Lake MO  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2011  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes! Amazing, we are first time sailers and have had a great summer and fall of experience. Been in 18 to 20 knot winds with gusts to 30+. Boat handles excellent and is very forgiving, thank goodness.  
Gear that's been added All new running rigging. 2 new Self tailing winches, conversion to propane, new battery charger, new traveler and gear, new lifeline fittings for add-on gate.  
Structural or complex improvements Propane conversion was a bear and costly. The traveler replacement went smooth as existing holes lined up. A miracle according to our mentor Reed, at Grand Mariner Yachts.  
The boat's best features Sails well in heavy wind and easy to handle for my wife and I. Lots of space and the v berth is totally comfortable after additions. Have had four kids and us for a ten day period and we still like each other.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Backing takes some getting used to but manageable after practice.  
Sailing characterisitcs Labor Day was a learning experience with 20 knt winds and gusts and amazing sailing. The boat handled well.  
Motoring characterisitcs Heavy winds are great and light winds teach maximum sailing ability to keep sailing. Our Yanmar has plenty of power so far for our needs.  
Liveability Two on the fold down, one in the quarter, one on the settee and us in the V berth. Thank goodness for perfect weather. Use a Magma propane grill for most of the cooking and our marina has showers and toilet facilities. Anchor and swim often, sail mornings and nights and lots of good neighbors for advice and entertainment.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Not yet! Use this forum for great information.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Reed and Cody at Grand Mariner Yachts on Lake Stockton are the best. They supply parts and advice and have all services available. Reed (Captain) and Cody (Certified in everything about sailboats) ASA certified us and continue to answer all questions and give advice. Would take many years to be where we are today with out these guys. They will assist with about anything and live aboard in the marina most of the summer.  
Other comments Definitely our boat in both price and performance.