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Review of the Hunter 26 by Don Barber

Year built 1997  
Location of boat Whiskeytown Lake, Redding, CA  
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 2000  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely. The boat was neglected for three years before I bought it. Almost everything had been installed incorrectly, including the roller furler, through hull fittings, electronics. The previous owner had purchased a 140% genoa that the boat simply is not built to handle. I have been working on the boat since December, and I have finally worked the "bugs" out of it. I have been rewarded with a superb, well balanced boat that points nicely, carries a nearly neutral helm in nearly all conditions, and handles surprisingly well in winds over 20 knots. I have become well acquainted with the clever engineering and nice construction details of this boat. I couldn't be happier and would buy another one without hesitation.  
Gear that's been added Boat came with upholstery upgrade, shore power, twin batteries, VHF, bimini, stern rail seats, electronic wind speed and direction meter, multi meter, compass, CDI roller furling, 20 watt solar panel to charge the battery, smart battery charger. I had to shorten the forestay, add hardware to attach the furler to the bow padeye.  
Structural or complex improvements I have made no changes to the boat.  
The boat's best features This is a thoughfully conceived boat that is nicely built for its purpose. The interior is cavernous with more than ample berths and generous, comfortable seating. The galley is functional, and the head is the largest you will find in a trailerable. You can really get comfortable on this boat. The cockpit is large, with plenty of room for friends. After refinishing the sole and the table, the interior looks fantastic. It truly feels like a "mini yacht".  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The hatch boards leak in the rain. Be sure to put the optional snap-on canvas cover over the hatch, and this problem will be solved. Be very careful not to step accidentally on the plexiglass at the front of the cabin, as it cracks easily. Water system contains some flimsy components, particularly the hose attachments to the plastic tanks.  
Sailing characterisitcs After tuning to factory specs., this boat sails nearly at hull speed while close hauled in a 15 knot breeze. It may feel tender to some, but after reefing, it easily handled wind up to 30 knots. Does surprisingly well in light airs. The boat is extremely easy to sail, although the cabin height interferes with visibility a bit when docking.  
Motoring characterisitcs My 9.9 hp. four cycle Mercury pushes the hull at 7 knots. There is some cavitation during sharp turns. Prop pitch needs to be lessened to about 6" to allow for higher rpm operation of the motor.  
Liveability Roomy, open cabin reminds me of those found on larger boats. Classy use of teak in the cabin sole, head bulkheads, table. Excellent alcohol stove, very deep sink, lots of storage for food and gear. The storage compartment under the V berth is large enough for a person to hide in. (Not that I would want to do that.) The large berth under the cockpit is very nice, with its opening port, light, and 7 1/2 foot length. All this boat lacks is a shower and hot water. But, get clever and use a solar shower and one of those vinyl enclosures that you can hang from the boom.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) I purchased the boat from a non-Hunter affiliated broker.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The broker didn't seem to know a whole lot about Hunters. This broker discouraged a survey. I probably should have had one conducted. I would say "buyer beware" - just become as knowledgable as you can, and examine the boat in minute detail to learn as much as you can about it before you buy. The dealer did not point out any of the boat's deferred maintenance problems, or any of the incorrctly installed gear. In fact, the dealer boasted that he he had sold the boat new to the first owner, and that his dealership had outfitted the boat. Unfortunately, I found that nearly everything he added to the boat was installed incorrectly.  
Other comments I couldn't be happier with this boat. I am planing on doing some serious cruising on the Sacramento Delta, Lake Tahoe, and next year, the San Juan Islands. Also the trailer is strong and cleverly conceived with its integral ladder and tongue extension.  

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