Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 30_74-83 by Alan

Year built 1981  
Location of boat Lake Lanier, GA  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength less than 10 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1990  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Definitely.Have had a great many terrific and memorable times on this boat.Just wish I was able to use it more often these days  
Gear that's been added Only standard, everyday improvements: 150% jenny, covers for teak, bimini, whisker pole, plenty of toys  
Structural or complex improvements none  
The boat's best features Room. When looking for another boat when I had an H23, I wanted one with a V-berth I, at 6', could stretch out in. This and the O'day 27 fit the bill. Plus there is plenty of storage in this boat  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The table in the main salon. Love the magazine rack on the bulkhead but that space would be better utilized for table storage. I keep the table in the quarterberth where it's out of the way Also this boat backs "like a Hunter". That stern takes off to the port every time  
Sailing characterisitcs Sails great in light air with the 150. Rounds up in a hurry when overcanvased. Kids love for the rail to be the water  
Motoring characterisitcs Motor upgraded to a 20hp Yanmar, moves along at a respectable 6.5-7 knots.  
Liveability I could live on it alone and maybe with a friend but too small for a family unless you are REAL close. I have all the comforts of home on it. Dont even need to pack a bag, just food and beer  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Called Hunter one time and was not thrilled with them. Asked what the optimum angle of heel was for that boat when I bought it. Answer: whatever it is fastest at. No chit Sherlock. Did call one other time and was totally thrilled. Asked if I could buy the owners manual with specs for this boat. They sent me a little black book with the specs for all of their boats of that period---I'm talking plumbing, electrical, everything. Was pleased  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought this boat from an individual but bought my H23 from a dealer who is now out of business but that was a pretty good experience. Very helpful and fixed some screwups without any complaints. Hunter seems to have a very reputable dealer network  
Other comments LOVE THIS BOAT