Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23 by Geoff Kloster

Year built 1986  
Location of boat Lake City, MN  
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 97  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. However, this is our first boat; we've not experienced others. We began sailing in earnest this spring, have learned a lot with our 23 and have enjoyed! It had been well cared for and we've had no problems; not even a drop of water in the bilge.  
Gear that's been added Roller furler; a few little things. It had a stern pulpit. Plan to run lines to cockpit this winter.  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features Shallow draft. Pivots nicely on the keel. Stiffens beyond 20 degrees. Nicely appointed interior. Seems fast.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. No problems. (unless they're hidden by our inexperience?)  
Sailing characterisitcs Tender to 15-20 degrees. Responds quickly in light air. Sluggish in heavy air with chop. Heavy weather helm. (We've not tried to adjust mast rake etc. As beginners we like this.) Very little spray to cockpit. Wind blows boat around when docking. Winches need to be angled or raised - sheet overide is frequent.  
Motoring characterisitcs Lots of vibration. Honda 7.5 was recently tuned and runs well, but moter mount amplifies the vibration. Still learning to maneuver in tight spots.  
Liveability Good for overnighting. Can not lean back comfortably because cabin top is in far enough to prevent tipping head back. (I have to turn sideways to drink my beer) Plenty of sleeping space for two or three. Four would be cozy. Difficult to use port-a-potty when beds made up.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) NA  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Good experience. Hooper's Yachts near the twin cities was helpfull and still is.  
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