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Review of the Hunter 31_83-87 by Andy deMercado

Year built 1986  
Location of boat Jacksonville, Florida  
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?  
Owner bought the boat in 1994  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely. This has been one of the best decisions my wife ever talked me into.  
Gear that's been added I was very furtunate in that my boat came "fully loaded". Previous owner invested quite a bit in the right equipment. I've added GPS to complement the Loran. Also added some engine guages and battery meter.  
Structural or complex improvements None needed (yet).  
The boat's best features 1. B  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. 1. Maxwell winches. It was very difficult to find replacement parts...this was remedied by fellow Hunter owners through this website! (tks)2. Everything else works (so far)..no major problems to speak of.  
Sailing characterisitcs We keep the boat on the St. Johns River in Jacksonville which has surprisingly good sailing and range. Also do some coastal cruising along the east coast(Savannah-GA, St. Augustine-FL, Palm Beach-FL). Sailed to Key West and Dry Tortugas last year. Experienced one day/night of "small craft advisory/warning" sailing, 30 knots and 8 foot seas. Boat held up much better than some of the crew. Also experienced some rough conditions crossing the gulf stream to the Bahamas...but once again the boat performed flawlessly.  
Motoring characterisitcs Performs well on calm, smooth seas. A little underpowered in the rough stuff. We usually achieve 5 knots (Yanmar). Does NOT like to back to starboard, which can make some moments interesting when the tides and winds aren't cooperating. Yanmar only provided "idiot lights" as warning systems, so be careful...if you overheat, it may be too late to prevent damage. We've motored 18 hours up the inter-coastal with no problems.  
Liveability Excellent for weekends, great for 5-7 days, no so great after that. But alot depends on the "company". "Sleeps 7", butdon't try it for very long. Head is kind-of small. V-berth is a little small if you're over 6'1". Hanging locker for foul weather gearwould've been nice.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Never had to deal with them, although I live close by.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Whitney's Marine in Orange Park, Florida. I mention them by name because they were extremely helpful and patient (plus they know their Hunters!)  
Other comments  

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