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Review of the Hunter 380 by Jack Lott

Year built 1999  
Location of boat Anacortes, WA  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1999  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes and no. Without a doubt, the 380 sails well and is a dream to handle. Outside of being tender, and having to reef often, there isn't much more one could ask for. Unfortunately, I've already had an incedent with her going aground requiring some extensive insurance work. What was discoverd in the process of repairs are some very questionable manufacturing practices. The bulkhead between the galley and aft cabin from the engine compartment to port is two piece and "stapled" together. I called Hunter and they said that was standard procedure. The grid under the cabin sole had several SIGNIFICANT voids in it where material was not laminaed to the hull properly. I expected a stronger boat. For bays, protected waters, should hold up fine. Open ocean sailing I would suggest some significant retrofit to toughen her up.  
Gear that's been added Autopilot, GPS, forward looking sonar, bimini, dodger, cabin heat, TV/VCR, upgraded refrigerator cooling water pump, high output alternator, inverter, additional battery bank, chainlocker guide roller, Maxiprop 3 blade.  
Structural or complex improvements I've added compression posts on both sides of both bulkheads. Added teak "cap" boards over each doorway in the bulkheads to spread hull twisting motion over a larger area (corners in doorways even with an arched center are weak points). These modifications were recommended by a marine engineer.  
The boat's best features Comfort, comfort, comfort. Although a little light, she is dry, handles well (if you stay on top of reefing), warm and dry below (not always a given on a boat), and there is more than enough room for 4 to 6 people over an extended period of time. Also, everything works as represented. The furling main, and jib are wonderful.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The only item that hasn't worked is the tank level indicator for the holding tank.  
Sailing characterisitcs As with most owners, I find her tender in a breese. Have been in gusty conditions and experienced near knockdowns with winds steady from 8-10 knots suddenly gusting to 20 knots. In steady blows of 25+ knots reefed correctly she handles just fine. No performance in 1 to 3 knots of wind. Need 5 knots to do much of anything.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motors at 7 knots at 3000 rpm.  
Liveability Outside of being noisy (canoe stern wave slap) it couldn't be much better.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Hunter factor has stepped in wherever needed and has been great.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Dealer experience was poor to say the least. Pretty much abandoned me after transaction. So much for driving a hard bargin (maybe too hard).  
Other comments  

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