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Review of the Hunter 33.5 by Walt Smith

Year built 1988  
Location of boat Middle River, Chesapeake Bay  
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 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1990  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, it has been both dependable and comfortable for the six seasons we've sailed her so far. It is a well thought out design with accomodations for four. Perfect for weekending away at or away from the slip.  
Gear that's been added Fortunately for us, the boat came equipped with some nice extra gear including air conditioning (we are now completely spoiled), dodger,whisker pole, and auto pilot. I'm not sure any of these would have been on my list of priorities but I must say that each has become greatly appreciated. There were also 12v fans and Nicro solar exhaust fans installed when we bought the boat. I did add a good stereo system to the cabin!  
Structural or complex improvements Nothing structural. All improvements seem to become complex.  
The boat's best features Having a large aft cabin on a boat this size really adds to the comfort of the boat when sailing with four people. It provides privacy and storage. It keeps the cabin uncluttered and usable. There is also a large icebox which allows for all kinds of provisioning without the need for portable coolers being stored aboard. Also, the walk-through transom is great for boarding the dingy, swimming and access if you back into a slip at a floating dock. There are also 10 opening hatches which keep the boat well ventilated. These features make the boat very accomodating and comfortable.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Either the factory or the dealer did a poor job of applying the barrier coat on the bottom of the boat. They applied it without sanding or etching the hull. After 5 years it began to peel in large sections. The hull surface beneath was as white and shiny as the day they finished the gel coat. I only whish her top sides could be that shiny. Anyhow that meant a major sanding project. Also, had a problem with a leaking plexiglass non-opening hatch over the cabin. Removing this and recaulking it were a major task. Finally, reanchored it with larger screws and it has held for two seasons. Other than those two problems she's been easy to maintain.  
Sailing characterisitcs The boat sails great in the 10-15 kt range. Over 15, a tuck in the main or the jib will reduce the weather helm and keep her moving fast. However, because our jib is only a 110 we do not do well in light winds. I don't especially like the Hood single line jib furling system on the boat. I can't figure out the advantage of a single continuous line system except that it may keep the size of the furling drum down. However, furling the jib is not effortless as you need to cleat off both ends of the furling line. If you just cleat off one end the line around the drum will not be taut and the jib will unfurl on you. You've got to make sure it is tight around the drum before you load the jib.  
Motoring characterisitcs I think the boat is a little underpowered with its Yanmar 16 hp. But it certainly is a dependable motor and she'll do about 5.5kts under power in smooth water at about 2700 rpm. When I have to motor I like to get it over with so I'd really like to do closer to the hull speed. But have motored her through some pretty rough weather when it was too rough to sail and I have to say it performed well. She also backs up reasonably well although I would caution Hunter owners against backing down in shallow areas as the rudder is almost as long as the boat's draft. There is a potential for severe damage to the rudder if it goes agound before the keel does.  
Liveability Very comfortable. We spend all weekends aboard while she's in the water. Both the v-bunk and the aft cabin berths are comfortable and roomy. The cabin is large, bright and airy. The gally has plenty of room and storage. We often weekend with another couple and there is plenty of room to relax.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Since I have had few problems that required factory solutions I have had little need to contact Hunter directly. I have contacted them through this web site with a general questions and received a prompt reply. I have also seen them reply to postings in an AOL Hunter Owners Forum. Nice to know they're out there watching us!  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Actually, I bought the boat from a private party. But the boat was commissioned by Tidewater and they have been totally supportive and helpful in answering questions and helping solve minor problems. They've got a great service dept. that will take time to give you advice.  
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