Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23 by Bob Zanowicz

Year built 1987  
Location of boat Lake Hopatcong  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength less than 10 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, I like the sleek design and the boat has a lot of value (a lot bang for the buck!) It is solidly built and I love the fact there is no swing keel, no cable, no noise, no water!  
Gear that's been added None, boat came equiped well. Previous owner spend a lot of $$$ on new sails, furler, lazy jacks, CD stereo, GPS, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements None  
The boat's best features Sleek design and very solid feel. A "big" little boat. The boat's forward anchor compartment is a real blessing and there is plenty of room for the rode. I like the little features like the portopotti can be fastened down, the cabin is set up nicely with a fair amount of wood. I dislike the newer Hunters because they are all bright and plastic-like down below.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Stepping and unstepping the mast and launching is a challenge to say the least. Unless you adopt some of the innovative ideas discussed on this and other BB sites, it is a 3 man job. The boat does sit high on the trailer so even with the tongue extension, it does take a deep ramp to get her waterborne. One annoying thing is the plexiglas hatch. It leaks big time. What the former owner did (and what I continue) is to use a hatch over over the entire top on the hatch, fastened on each corner with bungy cords. It is navy so it looks good with the rest of the boat and requires only a little more work. The cabin remains nice and dry.  
Sailing characterisitcs It is a little tender at first but it stiffens and I don't feel afraid even though the boat might be heeling at 30 degrees. I have a working jib that is self tending, which makes life easy but it would be nicer to have a larger jib on light air days.  
Motoring characterisitcs I have 9.9 OMC Johnson Sailmaster. Great motor with alternator and electric start. Like the big boys. The boat behaves well under motor and you have to remember to use the boat's momentum when docking.  
Liveability Very liveable even though I just daysail at my local lake. It would be very good and comfy to spend the night with one other or a small group.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) no experience with Hunter  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any ----  
Other comments Very pleased with the boat, it was a nice move up from my old swing keel Southcoast 22. Not very trailable is the H23's downside. If you have willing and strong crew that can help, but otherwise, plan on a spring launch and fall retrieval.  

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