Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 380 by Bill Lemond

Year built 1999  
Location of boat Houston, TX  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
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, definitely  
Gear that's been added Yes. the autohelm, GPS, and radar are very useful for the longer trips to galveston and up and down the coast and ICW. My wife loves the electric winch when raising the mainsail and the windlass for anchoring.Finally, the genset and bimini-enclosure allow us to use our Hunter year around and "mostly" without regard for the heat and cold.  
Structural or complex improvements No  
The boat's best features This is my first fractional rig and I find it very easy to sail. My wife especially likes the accomodations and the large cockpit for entertaining.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The filters on the A/C and refrigeration are a disappointment. They are too small and clog up within 2 wks max (our marina water quality is poor, but I've had the same problem in Galveston, Freeport, and on down to Port Aransas). The only other issue was the number of leaks initially. The dealer fixed them promptly, but my impression is that Hunter relies too much on caulk instead of design.  
Sailing characterisitcs Most of our sailing is in Galveston Bay with winds of 15-20 kts. The boat balances easily, has a good feel, and handles well. She is easy to sail as I have often given inexperienced sailors the helm. The best point of sail is a reach. We try to avoid long downwind runs with the swept spreaders and yawling motion.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motors fine.  
Liveability Very liveable for 2-4 people and can accomodate 6 but the port side settee could be more comfortable. The galley is very functional. We like the split head. Their is excellent space in the aft cabin; I like the cabinets and the seat, but we have not yet found a good way to cover the aft cabin ports.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Very difficult to reach people; voice-mail can be frustrating, but is here to stay. Everyone is courteous, knowledgeable,and helpful.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Ship and Sail in Kemah was excellent. Very professional and helpful. They smoothed out everything and made new boat buying a good experience.  
Other comments No  

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