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Review of the Hunter 31_83-87 by Gary Martin

Year built 1985  
Location of boat Seabrook, Tx  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1998  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Definately. This is our first Hunter but our 3rd boat and the value can't be beat. We chose the Hunter 31 over the Catalina 30 and Endeavour 32 for various reasons, but the main focus was the interior layout/spaciousness.  
Gear that's been added The boat was well equipped as purchased with autopilot, loran, GPS, knot/log, refrigeration, and a/c. We've elected to maintain the standard headsail arrangement and forego furling opting instead to add a strong stormjib for offshore work. We plan to add radar next month for offshore sailing, as well. The dodger/bimini is a must for southern climates!  
Structural or complex improvements No, but I see the possibility of replacing the flooring with solid teak/holly in the future.  
The boat's best features Without a doubt, the interior layout is the best feature of a Hunter 31. Yes, the v-berth is small but great for my teenaged daughters and there've been no complaints. The canted cockpit seating angle is a major plus, as is the flat cabin sole. This B  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. My throttle  
Sailing characterisitcs This is a great medium air boat with the high aspect ratio B  
Motoring characterisitcs Way underpowered, but acceptable if you plan ahead. For offshore work, fetch off lee shores early when anticipating increases in conditions. As stated, we've encountered problems in 18 knots of wind holding her head up when dousing our headsail, but this situation probably would not be present had we been flying a reefed main in addition to the headsail. This boat backs hard to port, so get some practice in open water beforehand.  
Liveability This is a great cruiser for 2 people, and 4-5 day liveaboard for a couple with kids. We have teenagers and have heard no complaints for up to 5 days. The head is small but not extremely so...but forget the shower! We've removed the stove in our boat and replaced it with a 'fridge/freezer opting to cook on the rail grill or with the small two-burner propane  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) N/A  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Steve at Higgin's Pier 21 was outstanding. This was my first brokerage boat and I'd do it again.  
Other comments  

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