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Review of the Hunter 280 by Larry Long

Year built 1996  
Location of boat Oologah, Oklahoma  
The boat is sailed on Lakes  
How the boat is used Racing  
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  
Gear that's been added Yes. Flagship Marine A/C and heat Asymmetrical spinnaker with dousing sock Integral mainsail cover Bimini and Dodger Raymarine ST60 depth, speed, and wind machine Raymarine WP4000 autopilot GPS and Laptop based navigation Microwave Refrigerator Freedom 20 inverter 2 house batteries Hey, if you can't be a big boat, at least you can act like a big boat.  
Structural or complex improvements I am currently remodeling the galley. When completed, it will have better storage, built-in microwave, refrigerator/freezer and a stainless steel sink. All visible white plastic will be replaced or covered by teak.  
The boat's best features It is easy to sail and dock. The large cockpit and the light, airy salon encourage me to spend a lot of time on the boat.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The galley seemed to be designed more for a day-sailer. I want all of the comforts of home so I am in the process of remodeling the galley to fit my wants.  
Sailing characterisitcs It sails easily and predictably but the speed is a little disappointing. I suppose if I had been in that big a hurry I could have chosen something other than a sailboat.  
Motoring characterisitcs That little Yanmar starts every time. It is reasonably quiet. It seems to have sufficient power to move the boat wherever I can't sail. Typical motoring speed is 5 to 5.5 knots. The paddlewheel effect of the prop is a lot more pronounced in this boat than most others I've experienced so you need to plan your docking manuvers to take advantage of the effect. If you maintain about half a knot of speed the rudder will let you back into the slip perfectly every time. This boat motors backward almost as well as it motors foreward.  
Liveability The v-berth is for decoration only. The aft berth is surprisingly good for a boat this size. The seats in the salon are all wide enough to actually enjoy sitting on them. The table is a little too large for a boat of this size and it is difficult to get around it. Our galley was OK but we are completely remodeling it to make it fit "our" ideas about "liveability."  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) I've toured the factory 3 times. It really counteracts any doubts you might have about Hunter's commitment to quality. EVERY person I've dealt with at Hunter had provided appropriate help every time. They keep extensive records about the build process and components that went into every boat based on the hull number. I don't know of any other business I have dealt with that comes close to their level of customer support.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The broker I bought the 280 from will not be getting any referrals from me. However, Redbud Bay Marina who originally sold the boat new has been an invaluable resource.  
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