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Review of the Hunter 28 by Mike Wagner

Year built 1989  
Location of boat Kemah, Tx.  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1989  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes - We actually prefer the older 28's to the newer models. It appears they have cut some cost in the newer models interior woods, etc. There is much better use of all the space than compared to older or other models. I have to get up to the 37.5 before I find anything I like better, and at that point, its a different league.  
Gear that's been added VHF, Depth, Loran, GPS, Autohelm, Radar Reflector, Air-Conditioner, Bemini, Stern-perch seats, x-tra battery, battery charger, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements Replaced the laminated fresh water tank cover with 1/2  
The boat's best features Plenty of horsepower, same as the 30'. Fast boat, out sails many older or larger boats. Goes much tighter into the wind than most. More space than many larger boats. Handles well in offshore 6 foot seas (albiet a little wet).  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The salt water impeller. When Yanmar says replace annually, they aren't kidding. The fresh water tank cover is a weak point being laminated and even a person a Hunter said they would have probably been smarter to put plexiglas or something other than laminated wood. A little bigger fresh water tank and holding tank would be nice.  
Sailing characterisitcs You do need to reef early or you have heavy weather helm. But that is probably due to the big frac rig which makes the boat fast. I would rather reef than not have enough sail. A little wet for offshore 5-6 feet. But I think any 28 would be. We usually stay up with the 32 footers or beat the older ones (Endeavors). Shallow draft is great for our shallow bays.  
Motoring characterisitcs Good power - same as the 30'. Backs as good as it goes forward - just stand behind the post and face backwards and drive her all day - looks a little dumb, but it works great. Overheating has been a problem and I think it is the impeller- my biggest complaint with Yanmar. Goes forever on a tank of deisal.  
Liveability Great for two people for up to a couple of weeks. More than two, and you are going to get to know them pretty quick.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) I think Hunter must have one of the finest support groups of any manufacturer. They did work on my boat after the warranty period without any hassel. I call and consult with them on a regular basis before I take on an unknown project. For instance, on the fresh water lid, I wanted to know what they used to seal it down with before I got into a big mess. They have sent me minor parts free, and other parts fast and reasonably priced. They have provided references and numbers for sub-parts. I can't say enough nice things about Hunter.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Limited experience since they went out of business shortly after I purchased the boat. The current local dealer appears good and I think Hunter keeps an eye on their representatives.  
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