Hunter Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997
Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
 
 

Review of the Hunter 40 by smackdaddy

Year built 1989  
Location of boat Corpus Christi, TX  
The boat is sailed on Open ocean  
How the boat is used Multi-week coastal cruising  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2014  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely. The Hunter 40 Legend is a tremendous value. Its got an incredibly nice interior - is a tough boat, and with a PHRF of 96, is definitely a performance cruiser.  
Gear that's been added She came very well equipped (AC, generator, pressure water, macerator, radar, etc.). So all Ive really added are items for longer distance sailing such as solar panels, expanded battery bank, VHF with AIS, new nav system, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements No. Shes been very solid.  
The boat's best features Aft cabin with centerline queen is tremendous. She is a very fast boat and sails very well in both high winds and lumpy seas.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The lazarette lockers are huge, but have no drainage. And they absolutely collect water. This is a head-slapper. The rudder stops are mild steel and need to be checked and maintained. The aluminum water tank had pitted through - but I was able to fix it by epoxying the interior of the tank.  
Sailing characterisitcs In 20-25 knots she has been rock solid. She wants some reefing at just over 20 knots - but still performs very, very well.  
Motoring characterisitcs For the most part shes light on the fuel and very comfortable under power. Because shes somewhat light she responds very well to the throttle and is very easy to steer moving backward or forward. Ive been able to dock her in very, very tight spaces.  
Liveability I could easily live on this boat. Its big, well laid out, and has great amenities.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Fantastic. After my initial inspection - before I bought the boat - I took some photos of various things that concerned me. I email Marlow-Hunter and asked about what I was seeing. Greg Emerson immediately got back to me and answered my questions. THAT is service.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Pat ONeal at Sealake Yacht Sales in Kemah. Fantastic.  
Other comments Im very happy with her.