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Review of the Hunter 356 by Kevin Mart

Year built 2002  
Location of boat Harbor Sailboats Sailing Club, San Diego  
The boat is sailed on Open ocean  
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 2002  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely, YES!  
Gear that's been added Yes, Chartplotter, Auto Helm, Commercial Life JAckets, 2nd anchor, covers, engine hour meter, third battery, volt meter, pole holder, and misc.  
Structural or complex improvements Premature wear on genoa prompted us to raise all the way to the top. Put spacer on outside shroud turnbuckle to eliminate catch point of jib sheets. You must add an hour meter on the engine and a volt meter. Also reglassed anchor well that was leaking into V berth.  
The boat's best features Since I single hand the boat 1/2 of the time, I like the ability to easily operate the boat, especially the in-mast urling.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Besides numerous dealer rigging problems, we had leaking ports, leaking anchor well, water storage tank has very weak support system and continued to move around, disconnecting the water line and draining 10% of the water out. Faucets for sinks and all door handles have needed replacement and/or "lock tight" application. The step to swim platfform is poorly supported and does not self drain. Pulling up especially with water in it has broken plastic and has required a resupport job. Prepunched arch leaves open holes over speakers where water drains, solved with epoxy putty. Forward and reverse lever has loosened and stripped in dangerous docking situation. Solved problem with "lock tight" application.  
Sailing characterisitcs Wonderful sails in San Diego Bay to open ocean sailing to Ensenada (Mexico), Coronados Islands and Catalina Islands by myself and sailing club members of Harbor Sailing (the best west coast ASA School located in San Diego).  
Motoring characterisitcs Just fine with three bladed prop. Many clubbies report long motoring from Catalina has gone well.  
Liveability Great room and accomodation for gear. It is a great benefit. Will live aboard in five years, and look forward to it.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) A few e mails back and forth, I have had great service and quick response.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any My expectations were not matched by dealer's level of service. Poor rigging job created lots of unnecessary problems. Repair delays were problematic.  
Other comments I love the 356, and am glad to see more and more of them on the Bay and other locales.  

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