Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 26 by Gary Verburg

Year built 1995  
Location of boat Lake Pleasant, Arizona  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength less than 10 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2003  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. The boat is good in light air, the conditions which prevail where I sail. It takes off before other boats its size and keeps going, albeit slowly, when others stall out. While basic, the interior of the boat is functional, not bad for overnighting. I expect I will have to sail this boat solo in the future and I am confident I can do so. All sail controls lead to the cockpit, are easy to use and the sails are not overwhelming in size.  
Gear that's been added Yes, a 12 volt plug and a trickle solar battery charger.  
Structural or complex improvements no  
The boat's best features Ease of handling.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The hand water pumps at the sinks don't function or at least don't function well. An upgrade here would be in order. Also, the boat does not have a traveler, and I think the boats windward performance could be improved if it had one.  
Sailing characterisitcs Basicly, light air sailing on the lake. In these conditions, the boat excells.  
Motoring characterisitcs I have an 8hp Tohatsu which is very reliable, works great and provides adequate power for the sailing conditions I experience. Manuevering dockside is sometimes a bit of a challenge given the high freeboard and light weight of the boat. Any puff of wind can throw you off your target.  
Liveability Fine for weekends. Sort of like camping with all of the necessary equipment (i.e. stove, shelter, padded areas for sleeping, porta potti, lights and 12 volt power for any accessories you might want).  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) No experience  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any I bought the boat on consignment through the Sailboat Shop, which was helpful. The staff seems knowledgable about the characteristics of the various sailboats and they don't use high presser sails tactics - they just provide information upon request. It was painless working with them.  
Other comments It has exceeded my expectations. I was debating between this boat and a Catalina 27 and I am happy with the choice I made for the conditions I sail in. If I sailed in the Ocean, the Catalina 27 would be preferable given its heavier fixed keel and stability. While I do not trailer the boat, it is relatively easily trailered by any vehicle with a tow capacity over 5,000 pounds, something you really can't do with a Catalina 27.  

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