Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 33.5 by Michael Desjardins

Year built 1988  
Location of boat Montreal, Quebec, Canada  
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 2005  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Oh yes yes yes... after two years of research I decided on the make and model and found one in Ohio. She's a very responsive boat, but a little slow in light winds. She handles extremely well in rough weather. Even when over powered and heeled over to the extreme, rudder looses it's grip and she heads into the wind.  
Gear that's been added Only added a GPS,bigger fenders, dock lines, main halyard... looking forward to a bimini for next year.  
Structural or complex improvements didn't need to, previuos owner took good care of her  
The boat's best features Interior room, adequate storage,headroom,overall design. She really handles well!  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Pin broke on the main sheet block.. thats about it. It looks like an original piece, so it lasted a nice long time.  
Sailing characterisitcs  
Motoring characterisitcs I've noticed many people found the 18HP Yanmar to be underpowered for a 33.5, I think it's just right. I can hit 6kts at 2700rpm, but usualy go no higher than 2500. Found docking with a folding prop to be a bit tricky, but you get used to it quickly (just add more power than you might think and she'll stop just fine). Backing up, handles great!  
Liveability Have yet to try an extended trip.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any)  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Absolutely! I bought her from Freeman-Eckley. (I hope I can say their name). The person I dealt with was more than helpfull. And, here's something you don't hear to often, he was HONEST ! Not just trying to make a sell!! He told me pretty much all he could, and the surveyor pretty much just added little details.  
Other comments I like her,,,,, A LOT !! :o)