Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 426DS by Steve Achtemeier

Year built 2003  
Location of boat Northpoint Marina - Winthrop Harbor, IL  
The boat is sailed on The Great Lakes  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2004  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. So far the boat has impressed us.  
Gear that's been added No.  
Structural or complex improvements No.  
The boat's best features Hull shape and speed. Cockpit layout. Salon layout.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Anchor locker has ledge that does not drain. Some fasteners were just missing for cockpit transom seats. I went through the boat looking for more things like that and so far I have just needed to tighten alot of bolts. Cockpit shower is not acceptable. The mixer valve falls down in the locker below. The shower on our 356 was much nicer. I am going to ask Hunter for a replacement. Will update this to let you know the response.  
Sailing characterisitcs Points fairly well for a large cruising boat. Raymarine auto helm kept us on course in 35 knot beam winds with 12 foot choppy waves. We sailed at a constant 9 knots in those conditions, with main double reefed and jib about 2/3 out.  
Motoring characterisitcs Just chugs along at about 8 knots in calm waters and 7 if choppy.  
Liveability My sail racing friends call it the condo, so you figure it out.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any)  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought the boat from Larsen Marine in Waukegan, IL. It is the second boat we purchased from them and we have been happy with the sales people and the service group.  
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