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Review of the Hunter 340 by Sandy Whetherholt

Year built 1999  
Location of boat St. Petersburg  
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? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2000  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. It was a good choice, made with considerable research and consideration. I've deliberately waited several years before writing this review to see what really was happening! I read some of the reviews in early 2000, just AFTER purchasing our 340. Overall, the 340 was a good choice for us, and we still like her better than other boats we've seen.  
Gear that's been added Original extras were: AC/heat, mainsheet traveler, DC fridge, wind/knot/depth instruments. Added extras ordered before purchase: 5000 Autopilot, spinnaker and equipment, extra (3rd) battery, arch speakers, 12-volt outlet on binnacle, Bimini, rigid boom vang. Since delivery: heavier batteries, 115 amp alternator, solar panels, chartplotter, radar reflector, heavier (Bruce) anchor with 30 ft. high-test chain and rode, extra BI fire extinguisher. Added DC panel volt/amp meter to more easily monitor battery state and current draw.  
Structural or complex improvements Added thick felt to the edges around inside of engine access panels to reduce noise and prevent rattles. Added sump pump to make shower drain properly and not into bilge. Added Mack-Pack for easier mainsail deployment and storage...it's much easier than worrying with the cover! Added bilge water level warning sensor. Added "Tides Track System and Luff Conversion" and 2 full-length battens to make mainsail raise and lower more easily. Replaced halyard turning block at bottom of mast area to further reduce friction.  
The boat's best features Roomy cockpit, interior. Not too much teak on deck to require maintenance. Convenient, logical systems. Decent engine access. Stern pulpit seats are popular. Wife likes.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Original bilge float switch failed, swamping the cabin sole with 1 inch of salt water. Replace switch malfunctioned as well. 3rd one seems to work fine. Mast step had to be reinforced, as it collapsed about 1 to 1.5 inches. Depth and knot meter had to be replaced (upgraded, as ST30s were no longer made). Autopilot sprocket began slipping as no shaft key had been installed. Bilge access boards got very tight and their edges had to be trimmed to permit removal for inspection of bilge. The door latches are quite cheap and eventually fall apart. I've replaced most with SS hooks. I would like to have an extra winch for mainsheet. Also, the jibsheet stoppers seem "rinky-dink" and I seldom use them other than to secure the sheets when not being used. I would like to have a larger fuel tank...maybe about 45 or 50 gal. Rub rail has discolored quite a bit...more than some boats I've seen.  
Sailing characterisitcs Seems best wind range is 8 to 12 knots. 1st reef at 15; 2nd reef at 20. Weakest POS is running, but cruising chute makes the difference. Tacks easily. I singlehand a lot, and the autopilot makes it a breeze! The rig seems competitive, and we've done well racing. Regarding weather helm, proper trim and sail shape is required in ANY sailboat, and this one can be made to sail with proper helm in most any wind strength, perhaps more easily than most. I'd recommend heaving to before reefing the main...makes it a piece of cake...no muss, no fuss.  
Motoring characterisitcs My cruising rpm is 2700-3000, but that consumes more fuel. At 2500, we get about 2 hours/gallon. She motors well and backs well...if you practice it. I always back into the slip unless there's a +15k crosswind. Prop walk is about average. It's necessary to have some for close-quarters maneuvering. I'd like to hear more from other owners about cruising rpms. The 2-blade prop is probably not the best, but a high-tech prop is beyond my $$ reach.  
Liveability Great in light or moderate conditions. Berthing at a good heeling angle into heavy seas is not great. Aft cabin could use more (non-AC) venilation...maybe another port. It can get stuffy. Other systems seem OK. I'm not pleased that the AC discharge is below the waterline, but there's been no problems.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) No experience dealing with Hunter.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Dealer was fair with service.  
Other comments I'd like to add a dripless fitting to take the place of the stuffing box. The wing keel is a good sailor, but don't run aground! It's a real pain to get off! Also, watch snagging a limp anchor rode on it, and steer clear of crap traps! After several cruises to the Fl Keys and N Florida, I've come to appreciate her abilities in moderatly heavy weather in open water.  

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