Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 27_75-84 by Joe Brock

Year built 1979  
Location of boat Panama City, Fl.  
The boat is sailed on Open ocean  
How the boat is used Blue water, extended passages  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? Yes  
Owner bought the boat in 1990  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, this is a very forgiving boat and extreamly reliable. My wife and I have been livaboards since we bought the boat and she has proven to be small yet comfortable. She is not luxurious by any standards, but because of her simplicty, she is easy and inexpensive to maintain ( I am talking about the boat, not my wife). I would recommend this boat to beginning sailors who want something more than a day sailor. She is a fine pocket cruiser.  
Gear that's been added I have added Bowmar ports and hatches. This has stopped the leaks and adds a cleaner look to her lines. I have also replaced the old Renault engine with an electric engine. I will be giving her real sea trials this summer on my way to the Florida Keys.  
Structural or complex improvements The only complex improvement has been the engine replacement.  
The boat's best features I have sailed this boat throughout the Florida Keys, Bahamas, and Western Carribean. She is stable, and predictible. This boat seems to handle best in moderate to slightly heavier air which is a comfort at sea. She also heaves to very well in heavy weather.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The original ports and hatches were inadequate and I would recommend replacinng them on older boats like mine. I would also recommend replacing the Renault engine. Mine did not have an oil filter in the design of the engine ( the French, go figure). Even though I have always been diligent about oil changes, it failed in the Intercoastal Waterway between East point and Panama City. I had to dodge bardges for two days under full sail to get home.  
Sailing characterisitcs This is a sound and forgiving boat. When she is pushed beyond her limits under heavy air conditions, she responds by luffing up to windward. I have tried, on numerous occations, to bury the rail but she continously will not allow me to go beyond those limits.  
Motoring characterisitcs When I had the nine horse Renault, it was noisy , smelled and thumped. I would replace any Renault with a Yanmar or just get proficient at sailing. I am looking forward to putting her through her paces with an electric engine.  
Liveability Excellent for two adults and a cat if you really love each other. Otherwise, plan on sending one or the other on frequent vacations. This is a great boat for weekends, for those who love cozy quarters or those who love to be independent and want to enjoy the sailing lifestyle without selling the house.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Never dealt with Hunter, but all I have heard from friends who have are excellent recommendations.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought the boat from a private owner.  
Other comments I am currently looking for a bigger boat because my wife said I could. I thought I wanted something like a Pacific Seacraft or Southern Cross. However, because of The positive experiences I have had on this boat, I think I will give a Hunter 40 a closer look. They seem to hold up well.