Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 380 by Rick Dalton

Year built 1999  
Location of boat San Francisco Bay  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Racing  
Normal wind strength 23-30 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? Yes  
Owner bought the boat in 1999  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. I have really enjoyed the interior space, as well as the ease of sailing this yacht.  
Gear that's been added Everyone has to add gear, don't they?, I've added the Autopilot 6000+, An extra VHF at the Nav Stat. , the gas-spring in the Seldon Vang, ICOM SSB, GPS, HVAC. I guess that's about it.  
Structural or complex improvements None.  
The boat's best features The boat looks outstanding with the forward rake on the arch. Also the headroom afforded by the vacuum formed haedliner. I almost forgot about the ability to be the first one at the Yacht Club bar after the races(roller furling main & jib).  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. I have had to replace just about all of the recessed lights in the cabin. For some reason the little switches are corroding. I haven't had any leaks that I know of though. I have also had to replace wiring to both bildge pumps. I think the delivery dealer took some short cuts here and didn't seal the wiring. The only other problem I can think of now is the window/portlight frames in the aft cabin tend to fall out. I still haven't resolved this issue.  
Sailing characterisitcs Lots and lots of wind. Ever sailed in SF Bay? You know what I mean. The boat is tender. When she wants to round up the first time, REEF!! Otherwise you'll spend the rest of your day wrestling the bear.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motors OK. 7 knots or so.  
Liveability Lots of nice stuff, ie.. Microwave, Inverter, Pressurized water, hot/cold, shower. The only things I've had to replace are the faucet in the lavatory and I replaced the shower with one of those modern things. Massage setting is excellent. The settee on the port side in the main salon has something to be desired. You have to be a small kid in order to enjoy it. Too narrow for an adult trying to catch a quick nap while under way.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) The Hunter Factory people are very helpful. I really can't say that about the dealer I bought mine from.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Used car salespeople have better after sale skills than anyone I dealt with including the owner.  
Other comments Nice Boat.