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Review of the Hunter 31_83-87 by John Weinreich

Year built 1984  
Location of boat Huntington, New York  
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 solo  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2002  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, the boat has proved to be good value for the money. I have sailed it for 3 seasons since I purchased the boat and it has performed very well for my area.  
Gear that's been added New sails replaced the (I think) original set in 2004 and this made quite a difference in performance. Next up is a set of lazy jacks as I sail solo most of the time.  
Structural or complex improvements No structural improvements have been made, although some cosmetic and safety related items were done. Specifically, the non skid on the decks was becoming worn and I redid this using a product made in Australia that held up very well this season.  
The boat's best features Light air sailing (which we get a lot of on Long Island Sound) performance is usually fairly good. Control lines leading aft to the cockpit are a big plus - would never consider anything else after 3 season sailing solo. Boat is forgiving and easy to learn on. Boat is dry in most conditions found on LI Sound.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. No real breakage to speak of although I am planning to replace the lifelines as they are getting worn, and I am also planning to install a baby stay / jib for heavier conditions where the furling genoa is not very efficient or effective. Downwind the main does not fill properly as it hits the spreaders well before you can let it out sufficiently. When conditions permit - you can get better performance from a spinnaker / genoa combo.  
Sailing characterisitcs Sails very well in winds up to 20 knots (on the wind), after which the main requires at least one and sometimes two reefs to maintain a good attitude. Heels early when not properly balanced.  
Motoring characterisitcs Original equipment is a 13 HP Yanmar, which is underpowered for the boat when seas and wind combine against you. For most conditions I experience, the motor performs ok, but boat speed is not as fast as it could be if a higher HP engine was available.  
Liveability Very roomy for its size, good headroom all around - adequate storage for a weekend and comfortable.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Used a broker - did not deal with Hunter direct.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought the boat through a broker located in CT who was listing the boat (they sold it to the person I bought it from)- they essentially pushed some of the paper through but the original owner and I did most of the legwork to close the deal. I would probably use another dealer if I purchased a new Hunter.  
Other comments The Hunter has proven to be a solid reliable boat well suited to conditions on LI Sound. I have not been able to experience 'on ocean' performance yet but plan to run to Block Island next summer so we will see.  

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