Hunter Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997
Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
 
 

Review of the Hunter 25_73-83 by Tom Donovan

Year built 1978  
Location of boat Sarasota, FL  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1998  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes very definately. Altho if I were able to have afforded a 30 ft with the on-board diesel and a 10 ft beam, oh boy there's where I would have gone !  
Gear that's been added The only gear I would have added would be an access point on either side of the boat's lifelines to gain access to the boat more easily.  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features Strength of the boat's hull and the overall rigging and mast support in the cabin (a 2" dia ss post was installed by Hunter at the original owner's request - it ran from the underside of the mast to the keel).  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The electrical system has gremlins that let some navigation lights work then not work. The lenses on the cabin lights have aged to the point of just dropping out of the light frame. The port hole securing screws have failed by means of the plastic grip separating from the metal threaded nut that holds the portlight closed.  
Sailing characterisitcs It's a bit touchy until you reach 12 - 15 degrees of heel then it settles into a groove and seems solid. My big concern today is the rudder / steering post seems to have developed a wobble (?) while steering (particularly when underway with the stern mounted 9.9 hp outboard). It's as if the rudder is worn and flops back and forth on the shaft.  
Motoring characterisitcs While motoring under outboard power, the manuverability is excellent and the speed,7 knots or so, is just fine. It is a pain to raise and lower the motor, tho.  
Liveability Good for a weekend or a week vacation, but no more than that. With an 8 ft beam, I feel you need more room.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Haven't dealt with them.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Private purchase.  
Other comments I would appreciate a copy of any blueprints that may inidcate how the boat was constructed and any technical data that would help in maintaining the vessel. From a sailing standpoint, I'd not hesitate to buy another. She's a gem and we love her ("Mariah").