Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Joe Ernst

Year built 1993  
Location of boat Perry Lake, KS  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1993  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. We've had a great experience with this boat, and it continues to serve us well. It is in my opinion a great value in its class. Its advantages far outweigh its disadvantages.  
Gear that's been added Bimini, Mainsail Cover, Stern Rail Seats, Gear Hammock, Grill, Canvas Organizer for sail ties, winch handle, bottle opener etc.  
Structural or complex improvements One could argue that the stern rail seats belong here.  
The boat's best features Trailerable and very roomy. Good light in cabin, day and night. Pretty fast and fun to sail. It can be as boring or as exciting a sail as you would like, just adjust the sails and enjoy. Very easy to keep clean. Pretty trouble-free (for a boat -haha). Most stock equipment is decent quality.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Electrical system and leaking hatches. I have had several shorts and blown fuses - I am  
Sailing characterisitcs She is a handful in a strong wind. I _love_ the light wind performance, though, and she can sail upwind very well. I agree with the other comments that you must reduce the sail area when you get up around 20 knots or the heeling is uncomfortable/exciting depending on your viewpoint. I have sailed at 30-35 degrees of heel and had fun - the tiller gets a little heavy but easing the main keeps you from rounding up.  
Motoring characterisitcs I have a Nissan 8HP, and it does pretty well. Good performance  
Liveability Perfect for 2 or 3 person weekends, You start to feel crowded with 4 people in the cabin. Our record is 4 adults, 2 children, a norweigan elkhound and a collie, and it was fine for a daysail, but not overnight! You have to invent some storage for yourself and like others have said - get organized!  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Have not done so.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The Saint Louis Sailing Center in St. Louis, MO is run by Jeff Oberle. This is a terrific dealership with good customer relations and service.  
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