Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 170 by Chuck Faraci

Year built 2001  
Location of boat Massachusetts  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength less than 10 knots  
Average size of crew 5-6  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2002  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. Having lots of fun learning to sail with it. Easy to handle and trailer.  
Gear that's been added Replaced the single blocks used on the centerboard uphaul line with double blocks. That was the only line that was a chore to pull in. The 4:1 advantage provided by the double blocks makes it much easier.  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features The openness of the cockpit is what sold us on it. A cuddy cabin made no sense to me unless you are planning overnights. For that, we tag along on a friend's 40 footer!  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Attaching the forestay was a challenge at first. With some help from the Hunter Owner's forum, we have gotten some excellent suggestions. Quick releases on two of the stays would have made it easier, but I will wait before I retrofit them.  
Sailing characterisitcs Some harmonic vibration at slow speeds. Nothing serious, but you can hear it.  
Motoring characterisitcs Honda 2HP 4 cycle has proven to be more than enough motor. I like the fact I don't have to mix the gas and oil. Lightweight and easy to start. I found it easier to motor with the keel down and the rudder up in windy conditions. Otherwise I raise them both since I am usually only using the motor to go or leave the shore.  
Liveability n/a  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Not with Hunter, but with JY. I had some questions before I bought the boat and Dave Eck responded same day. I was impressed!  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Cape Water Sports on Cape Cod. Had two minor problems: topping lift was missing and the canvas bow cover did not fit. They were great. Replaced both via mail so I didn't have to travel the 1 1/2 hrs to them. They were also very good when purchasing. Steered me away from some boats that I expressed interest in. Honored a sale price that had ended a few weeks earlier.  
Other comments The summer is just starting and we are getting better and better at getting from home to on the water. The first couple of times was a chore. We are now developing a routine. Looking forward to sailing and swimming from the boat in several lakes in Mass. and NH.