Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 280 by JNDouglass

Year built 1996  
Location of boat Pensacola Beach, FL  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength less than 10 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1998  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? It's a great boat but due to our usage, would probably drop to a 26.  
Gear that's been added Yes roller furling jib, Autohelm, wheel cover, extra battery, bimini with viewer, dehumidifier fan, portabke heater, lazy jacks and cradle No  
Structural or complex improvements No  
The boat's best features Extreme reliability, response is extraordinary, and the cabin is very nicely laid out.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Depthometer  
Sailing characterisitcs REsponsive sailing in many types of weather including heavy seas. It never feels insubstanial or cheaply made.  
Motoring characterisitcs The 18 HP diesel is reliable and has caused no problems.Very comfortable for short stays which is all we've done.  
Liveability Very comfortable for short stays which is all we've done.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Fairly cooperative though could be improved.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any This was the worse part. The dealer was and still is lacking in cooperation and will only do what is required under warranty, after extreme persuation.  
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