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Review of the Hunter 380 by Steve Winkle

Year built 2001  
Location of boat Lake Grapevine, TX  
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 2001  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely!!  
Gear that's been added Boat came equipped with refrigerator/freezer, air conditioning, electric windlass, electric halyard winch, in-mast furling, Raymarine wind instruments, speed, depth, ST5000+ Autopilot, and GPS, diesel generator, leather cushions, and bimini.  
Structural or complex improvements Because we rarely ever need a large dining table, I removed the stock table and replaced it with a smaller "cocktail-sized" table (18x30"). We're going to make a cushion to fit so that, when lowered, the table can do double duty as an ottoman.  
The boat's best features She's easy to handle and sail for only one person and the cockpit is large enough for several friends without feeling cramped.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Everything works and, as I gain experience with all the systems, I will look to use them as designed. I wish there was more storage below and in the cockpit. The port lazarette isn't very deep and only manages to hold the 6 lifejackets that come with the boat plus a couple of youth lifejackets. With the diesel generator, the starboard stern lazarette doesn't have room for anything else. Both aft cockpit lazarettes are shallow and don't hold much either. Below, there isn't a lot of storage space for galley utensils and pots & pans. There is a lot of space for foodstuffs, though.  
Sailing characterisitcs In light air (> 7 kts), it takes some patience, but she will move. In more moderate air (up to 12 - 15 kts), she likes to sail! Easily handled and tracks well even with the autopilot off. I really need more time in a variety of conditions to better evaluate this.  
Motoring characterisitcs Forward - no problem. Reverse - strong walk to port that takes some getting used to.  
Liveability Generally, very good. All spaces are adequate for extended stays aboard even with the grandkids!  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any)  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Richard & Helen at La Vida are wonderful folks who we've known for years. Their staff is responsive as well and easy to work with. Easy to see why they're Hunter's top non-salt water dealer.  
Other comments Traded in our '91 Hunter 30T to move up to the 380 and are very glad we did. We've had a lot of success and pleasure from the Hunter line so we'll strongly consider a Hunter for our next boat as well.  

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