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Review of the Hunter 40 by Terrence Blake

Year built 1985  
Location of boat Poulsbo, Washington  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Multi-week coastal cruising  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1995  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Perhaps. There are many boats out there, but the Hunter 40 is one of the best price/performance values around. And, after awhile she kind of grows on you.  
Gear that's been added Espar heater, 2-blade MaxProp, SS shaft, PSS shaft seal, all new portlights, multi-stage battery charger, 100 AMP alternator, GPS. (I'm sure there are other things I cannot remember right now -- my bank account shows it.)  
Structural or complex improvements Installing the Espar heater. It was a challange hiding the duct-work, but the end result is great. We cruise all year.P.S., we have a new mast thanks to the prior owner. (Now if I can just get her tuned right.)  
The boat's best features Effortless sailing. The hardest part is raising the main. After that she flys like the wind. We also have an extensive sail inventory (2 spinners (1.5 and .75), 5 jibs (2-150, 130, 110, 100), plus a storm jib, 2 mains and a staysail. All thanks to the prior owner. (She was raced alot.) Maybe that explains the NavTec Hydraulics. Most people think she's a Swan. Imagine that.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Everything works except for the KVH electronic compass. The LCD panel kinda died. Back to the old bubble. Even the holding tank stuff works well. (Of course, I take very good care of that area after hearing so many nasty stories.)  
Sailing characterisitcs Sailing in the Northwest is always an experience. Winds change speed and direction as we go around islands and inlet. But she (Solara) always lets us know what she wants. Like I said, she kind of grows on you. It's fun to get the helm balanced then sitting back to relax. (Who needs autopilot?)  
Motoring characterisitcs The MaxProp works very well. She can actually go in reverse. The engine smokes some when cold then clears up. Point and go, it's very easy to motor.  
Liveability Great. We have lived aboard for many years now. No complains, except for the relentless past winter. But at least she does not leak. (The new portlights are well worth it.) Everything we need is there.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Never dealt with Hunter. I do not like what they are building now. Too powerboatish. (If you need seven foot headroom, you need a powerboat.) Then again most new boats are  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The broker was OK. He just happen to list the boat.  
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