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Review of the Hunter 146 by Paul Chauvin

Year built 2003  
Location of boat New Orleans, LA  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 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, it does what I want it to do, and fits in my garage easily. It took some adjustment of balance at first, (no weighted keel) but handles well.  
Gear that's been added Yes, I've added a Tohatsu 2.5 hp motor, a boom kicker, a small harken block for main sail outhaul, a snap shackle for forestay and a mast float from Hunter, which has the HC from Hobie Cat (I think)on it.  
Structural or complex improvements The motor handle had to be extended in order to steer from the cockpit due to the stern layout and motor mount location.  
The boat's best features The roomy cockpit and rounded edges make it easy to move around. It is relatively light and can be pulled ashore or beached easily. Easy to pull on trailer too. Moves easily in light air.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. As much as the stern has eye appeal and makes boarding easy from the water, it makes motoring more difficult. Careful selection of a motor is suggested.  
Sailing characterisitcs Boat heels easily and wants to round up in heavy winds. It also responds (maybe over responds) to weight shifts. With 2 adults sailing, we both swapped sides when tacking, (I prefer the windward side at the helm and I was heavier). With 3 adults and a small child, only I swapped from port to starboard and visa versa. To me, it was easier to sail with 3 people and child.  
Motoring characterisitcs With the distance from the cockpit to the motor, one has to sit way aft to control the throttle, pull the starter rope and steer. If motor doesn't have reverse, one has to rotate motor 180 degrees to move in reverse. This is a challenge, especially singlehanded. Get a motor with neutral, at least, for this hull.  
Liveability Would nightsail on a full moon with running lights for a few hours. Wouldn't sleep on it.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Haven't dealt with Hunter.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Fair to partly cloudy. Had problems receiving complete and accurate data for loan processing. Don't buy out of state if possible. Lots of red tape with taxes, title and registration.  
Other comments It's a good boat, I hope many people buy the H146 and start racing. It is perfect to teach my family to sail on. I get nothing but good comments about this "cool" boat.  

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