Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 26 by A. Can Ozcan

Year built 1997  
Location of boat Sigacik, Turkey  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? Yes  
Owner bought the boat in 2013  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes and No... Yes, because it is a well built and responsive boat. No, because it has certain limitations for cruising in the Aegean and Mediterranean.  
Gear that's been added Not myself but previous owners had made many additions to make it suitable for Mediterranean cruises. The additions include a Honda 20hp outboard with electrical start and remote wheel control, furling system, VHF, lazy jack, solar panel, refrigerator, 220V land extension, 220/12 inverter, double battery system, anchor winch motor, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements As I said before, previous owners had done a lot, but the biggest of all is a fixed fin keel instead of a the standart moving one. So, this may be the only one of its kind, a Hunter 26 sailing in the Med with a fixed fin keel.  
The boat's best features Dependable and versatile both in sailing and in motoring. Comfortable in the interior and cockpit spaces while sailing and resting. Corner cockpit seats and cup/can holders are very enjoying details.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Access to batteries, wiring and water circulation systems inside the stern at the back... Small winches for Mediterranean type of sailing.  
Sailing characterisitcs Stable and dependable in strong winds and handles well in light air.  
Motoring characterisitcs With a 20hp 4 stroke Honda engine I do not complain much about motoring. I'd prefer bigger fuel tanks and a smaller hp instead, because the engine has no contribution from a certain rpm on in terms of speed.  
Liveability Very very liveable for short terms. I'd ask for an inside shower and a better structure to apply more shelves to put my books and little items onto.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) No experience  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any No such an experience. It's very hard to find Hunter related people in Turkey.  
Other comments I've lived unforgettable moments and experiences with this unexpected boat since I bought it. Enjoy life, take good care and sail on.