Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 30_74-83 by c.t. clagett

Year built 1976  
Location of boat St. Petersurg, FL  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
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 1991  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely!  
Gear that's been added Schaefer 2100 Roller Furling, New set North Sails full battened main and 150 Geneoa, Repowered GM20 Yanmar, Three bladed propeller, Replaced fuel and fresh water tanks, Depth Sounder, GPS, Edison pedestal engine controls, added opening port in cockpit above aft berth. Main saloon hatch replaced. All opening ports have been replaced.  
Structural or complex improvements None  
The boat's best features Really like the way she sails. Interior is comfortable, great headroom. I like the wood work in interior  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Chain plate thru deck sealing is an ongoing issue. I am concerned over the possibile weaking due to corrosion of the "I" beam upon which kingspost is stepped. Don't like icebox and shower water draining into bilge. Water stands on aft portions of deck and forward section of cockpit. Engine, shaft and transmission access inconvenient. I cut an access panel about 2 1/2 feet long in the bulkhead between the aft bunk and engine compartment. Installing Edison Pedestal engine controls were difficult due to the way the pedestal was installed and limited access.  
Sailing characterisitcs She is alot of fun to sail. The new North Sails and Schaffer 2100 roller furling system make her a real pleasure to handle. A dutchman system would be a nice addition. She is easily single handled.  
Motoring characterisitcs Serious prop walk in astern propulsion. Bow is light and "blows off" wind when docking at low speed and raising sail. The factory YSE 12 engine had head gasket problems every couple of years and lacked sufficient power. The new Yanmar GM 20 required installation of stiffer motor mounts than those provided with motor after considerable discussion with dealer.  
Liveability Used for day sails, weekends, cruises to Key West, Dry Tortugas, Great for two people for extended periods, four for a couple of days. Fresh water capacity is limited,  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) I have not found the manufacturer to be of any help with anything I have asked them. Local dealer, Sailor's Warf, have been pleasant and have responded promptly to questions but, I still feel as though I am pretty much on my own with any question/issue. It is a pretty old boat so I don't think it is realistic to expect too much from either the manufacturer or the dealer.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Purchased from private party.  
Other comments I am glad I bought her! I consider her a great friend and enjoy her company at every opportunity!