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Review of the Hunter 30_74-83 by Henry Barousse

Year built 1980  
Location of boat Mandeville, Louisiana  
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 6  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1986  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. I have received the purchase price of my boat in enjoyment many times over.  
Gear that's been added I added a third battery that I dedicate to engine cranking,with a battery switch in the cockpit within reach of the helmsman. Also, a battery isolator and an on-board charger.  
Structural or complex improvements (1) Compression Post: After the compression post settled 3/4", I replaced the steel I-beam supporting the post with concrete. (2)Cabin Top Under the Mast: Later, I had to completely rebuild the deck under the mast, as it had delaminated and "dished" when the post had settled, resulting in leakage and piping of rainwater. (3) Electric Circuit Panel & Battery Switch: I found the cabin-sole location very inconvenient, so I relocated both to the bulkhead on the port side of the companionway, rerouting all wiring. I also added volt and amp meters beneath the circuit panel (4)Bow Roller -- I added a bow roller on a 2"x6"x24" treated timber. I has been in place for at least 15 years and is still in good condition.  
The boat's best features Though I am no racing sailor, I am always surprised at how well her speed compares with other boats -- we always seem to hold our own or better with most boats of comparable length. Also, I have pointed to well inside 45 degrees on many occasions. She is relatively firm in a blow,and I have ridden some pretty nasty seas without compromising my confidence.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Obviously, the failed compression post mentioned above was a major headache, but it is completely repaired now. I once suffered two dead batteries off shore because the sailing was so good I forgot to run the engine for over 24 hours. Later, I added the third battery dedicated to the engine. The shrouds are somewhat of an obstruction to the side decks -- I would have preferred that they be completely outside. The lexan (?) portlights have cracked slightly around some of the screw-downs and they have also become quite cloudy.  
Sailing characterisitcs The old boat is surprisingly light on her feet, and with any knowledge at all about sail trim and helmsmanship she will frustrate the hell out of the skippers of other boats. She will point very close to the wind. Although it is not the most efficient way to sail her, I can nurse her to within 40 degrees -- a feature that has allowed me to sneak into the breakwaters ahead of bad weather a few times.  
Motoring characterisitcs I can motor a 5.5 knots in most conditions while consuming 1/2 gallon of fuel per hour. Of course she prop-walks to port in reverse, but this is actually an advantage when backing into my home slip.  
Liveability I find her very comfortable for a 30 footer. The shower is very useable, and the V berth is huge. The ice box is very well insulated -- I have left her in the florida summer sun and returned after a week to find ice remaining.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) N/A  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any N/A  
Other comments Truly a "good old boat". After 17 years, I'm still enjoying her.  

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