Hunter Owner Reviews

Serving sailors online since 1997
Hunter OEM Parts
General Marine Parts
 
 

Review of the Hunter 26.5 by M.Miller

Year built 1987  
Location of boat Lake O the Pines, Texas  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew solo  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2000  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, Boat was a starter boat for my family. Great boat for the size.  
Gear that's been added Depth meter, Spinnaker, Electric sink pump,CDplayer,bimini, new canvas, recovered interior cushings, planning an airconditioner this summer  
Structural or complex improvements NO  
The boat's best features Good room down below deck. Easy to solo sail. Looks great going down the lake.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. I have the Nissan 9.9 mounted on the port side. Very hard to get up and down while sailing. Also the motor mount is somewhat weak and needs some reinforcement  
Sailing characterisitcs I sail with the main and usually a 150 genoa. Easy to handle in winds up to about 15mph without a reef.  
Motoring characterisitcs Motors OK. I have some problems with handling after backing out of my slip and trying to make the turn into the lake. It takes a while to get it back around to port.  
Liveability Have only stayed overnight many times. Great to anchor out in lake and soak up the stars at night. Plenty of room for two but would not recommend extended stays with my 3 children aboard.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Called them once about new switch. They put me right in touch with a company who was helpful with my order. Get most of my advice from Hunterowners.com  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any N/A  
Other comments Thinking about a larger boat, but cannot give up this great sailboat.