Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 260 by Brigg Franklin

Year built 2001  
Location of boat Vancouver, Washington, USA  
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 2001  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Deffinitly would buy the same boat. I trailer sail through out the North West and the 260 meets all my needs.  
Gear that's been added Two burner stove, depth and knok meters, compass, AC wiring (shore power), spinnaker.  
Structural or complex improvements Shore power through out the cabin. Also, shored up the back of the holding tank where the corner rests on the curve of the hull.  
The boat's best features Cabin space, water ballest, and stepable mast rigging.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The rear of the holding tank does not sit on the supporting bench due to the outside curve of the hull. I had to build a support for the rear of the tank. The weight of a full tank could cause structural dammage to the hull or the tank itself.  
Sailing characterisitcs Very stable with the ballast tank full and the swing keel down.  
Motoring characterisitcs The 9.9 four stroke outboard pushes the boat at hull speed. The steering with the outboard is a little difficult if you have to turn the motor due to it's placement low and aft on the mount.  
Liveability For two or four persons for a week's cruise in the Islands, where a pump-out station is available, it's a real pleasure. I have to ship extra drinking water to stay out several days.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) All my experience is through my dealer, "The Sailing Life" and orders have been a little slow in showing up.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any My dealer "The Sailing Life" in Portland, Oregon have been very friendly and willing to help, but a little new at the Hunter program.  
Other comments My 260, "Wandrin Star," is a very enjoyable boat for both sailing on and trailering. Pulling the boat and trailer behind my SUV looks a little like an ant pulling an elephant, but it pulls nicely. If you would like to see pictures, please visit my web site at: http://northstarsailing.home.attbi.com Brigg Franklin Vancouver Washington ASA Certified Sailing Instructor