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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Jay T. Basinger

Year built 1994  
Location of boat Michigan  
The boat is sailed on The Great Lakes  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1996  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Probably not.Athough I enjoy sailing it. It is at best a weekender for two. Not enough convenient storage. The port side under deck storage bin compartment is almostly completely inaccessable. One has to squirm like a worm to get to the stern storage bin. We enjoy the open spaciousness but the under seat storage is not well designed. The galley console should have been placed forward as the divider for the V-berth and head area. That would have allowed access to the aft sleeping area from both sides of the companionway entry. The cooler is two small for extended cruising.  
Gear that's been added Added Odometer Knot log, depth sounder, compass, and hand held GPS. Have Bimini, cockpit cushions and hatch enclosure. Mad a plywood screen insert for the companionway.We're hoping to make a bicycle rack out of the mast crutch to carry two bikes at the stern behind the rudder and slightly above. Also made an oak galley rack for 4 sets plates, cups ,bowls and saucers and another small oak rack for small miscellaneous glasses, silver ware, and kitchen tools, small jars and condiments  
Structural or complex improvements Nothing major. Just simple conveniences.  
The boat's best features Open Space in the Cabin and Cockpit.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. We had a problem with water entering the bilge thru hull fitting. Electrical pannel is quite minimal. The storage compartment for gas tank took three years to find a 6 gallon vinyl tank that would fit the compartment. Had problems with the water storage bottle leaking under the sink.No place for charts, tools, and cruising equipment storage. The table is cute but very minimal. Its mounting and positioning adjustments are useful.  
Sailing characterisitcs Sailed in heavy weather on Lake Huron, Michigan and Superior. The rudder keeps inching up as the stress increases while running. It balances quite well. Have planed at 8.5 Knots running under reefed main.We also sail in the shallow lake where we live. It's the biggest sail boat on the 800 Acre lake. The shallow conditions mean we often have to raise the center board and rudder.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motor using 8HP Nisson. The mounting and and motor well are well designed and functional.  
Liveability A weekend for two would be the best circumstances or maximum cruising conditions. We have taken 4 on 4-5 day adventures and its too tight. Not enough storage room for more than two at best. The large queen size berth doesn't have enough head room. You're in for the night once you get under the cockpit. There is no way to conveniently get out to use the portapot since people are sleeping in the V-berth.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Yes. We received their newsletter for owners. Not too valuable or useful for improving your sailing experience. Cost of parts was exhorbitant. Could not buy directly from Hunter, only dealers who weren't interested in nickel/dime service.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The Broker was very interested in getting his cut. He was helpful putting the deal together in a very prompt manner.  
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