Hunter Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997
Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
 
 

Review of the Hunter 18.5 by Scott

Year built 1988  
Location of boat Raleigh, NC  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 97  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? YES! Inexpensive so you don't care if she gets a scratch and ROOM! Pulls EASILY behind my Ford V6 Ranger.  
Gear that's been added 5hp (safety). Planning on adding a backstay and an electrical system.  
Structural or complex improvements Porta Potty  
The boat's best features ROOM! ROOM! ROOM! Sure we want a bigger boat now but for two starters, we go out for three to four days, camp on islands. It's GREAT! The fixed keel can be a pain at launch but she won't blow over and that means alot to my wife. Plus it makes it look cool when she's on the racks.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Headstay sag. The zspar rigging is begging for a backstay. Could really use a cunningham. The fixed keel means you need deeper launching (watch the tides. Mid tide best) but the extended tongue on the trailer is a real kicker.Took awhile to set up. Helps to add quick connects on the shrouds and stays.  
Sailing characterisitcs Nice and easy. Rounds up into the wind good. I think the wing keel allows her to slide to much but I'm not racing anyone.  
Motoring characterisitcs Having problems with the outboard wanting to come off the transom in reverse.  
Liveability Five days max - wife factor.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) This seems to be a mysterious boat. Literature is practically non-existent so if anyone has any tips about this boat out there (like where to get a new trailer) let me know please!  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought the boat from 'The Sailboat Company', Richlands, NC. Great people! Very caring and good at what they do.  
Other comments