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Review of the Hunter 280 by Adrian

Year built 1999  
Location of boat Oriental, NC  
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? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2003  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely! It is an excellent boat for day sailing or cruising on long weekends. I would also consider a 26ft water balast trailerable. Almost the same comfort, but big gain in flexibility.  
Gear that's been added Lazy jacks and autopilot  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features spacious cockpit, very easy to single-handle, stable direction while motoring in reverse (as in backing into a slip). Also impressively stable even in 4-5 ft waves!  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. I am continously battling mold in hidden places. There are a couple of small but nagging water leaks from somewhere around the roof of the cabin. There is a bit more play in the steering than I'd like.  
Sailing characterisitcs A bit tender. Make sure you reef in early. No problem getting to hull speed in 10kt wind.  
Motoring characterisitcs 18HP Yanmar pushes it to hull speed with no problem. Also pushes efortlessly into 20-25kt winds with 3-4 ft waves. Impressive! Wet ride in conditions like that, but impressive.  
Liveability Great for 2 people even for extended cruising. Manageable for 3-4 for weekend. Any more than 4 people means day sailing.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Yes. So far very positive.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any I bought the boat from Norton's Yachts in Deltaville, VA and they have been extremely helpful in solving all the problems I encountered. They even helped diagnose via e-mail.  
Other comments great value for a recreational boat. I would definitively buy again.  

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