Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 280 by Jay C.

Year built 1997  
Location of boat Joe Pool Lake, Grand Prarie TX  
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 2000  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Probably would have bought the new 290. I prefer the enclosed V-berth on the 290. The 280 has an open V-berth that doesn't give any privacy to guests. Other than that I'm pretty happy so far.  
Gear that's been added More 12v fans. Night-vision preserving red cabin lights (can't believe it didn't have those). Accord shades. Air conditioning. Refrigeration. Rigid Vang  
Structural or complex improvements None  
The boat's best features Large cockpit is great when guests are aboard. The setee is nice and the huge table allows for a large meal to be served. Large swim platform allows for much easier boarding when I am backed into the slip than I've seen on any other manufacturer.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. I love the B&R rig now that I have the rigid vang and no topping lift. Had problems with the large roach main slipping by the topping lift until I could remove it thanks to the rigid vang. Quite a bit of cosmetic gel coat cranking in stress areas, nothing that looks structural though. Holding tank guage doesn't begin to register until 3/4 full.  
Sailing characterisitcs Although I seldom sail alone, I single hand the boat. I'[ve found it easy enough so far. Although you have to tack going downwind, I have always sailed that way, to prevent accidental gybes. Very responsive to the helm, even below 1 knot.  
Motoring characterisitcs I motor out to the middle of the lake a lot during the week, just to cook dinner out and have a swim. Loud, but totally reliable Yanmar. Backs easy once you get some speed. I can back it into the slip alone no problem.  
Liveability Fine with 2 aboard. No way 2 couples could share with any comfort/privacy. Icebox is pretty big, and with the reefer, I leave food onboard all the time, as well as water. No sea berths, so I'd hate to try to sleep while underway.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Havn't had to deal with Hunter yet.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The dealer pretty much deliverd the boat and disappeared, about waht I'd expect from someone selling a used boat. My calls for help have been mostly unanswered, but I have managed to fix or figure out things so far.  
Other comments I prefer Hunters to the primary competitor because of the more open cabin. I would like to see an oven available on a boat this size though.  

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