Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Don Nelson

Year built 1993  
Location of boat Mobjack Bay Virginia  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2001  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, it's been a sturdy, fine boat and a great value in its class. The first skipper owned it for 8 years and we for 5 years. They trailered it alot successfully and we kept it usually in a Marina.  
Gear that's been added Bimini, Mainsail cover, 2 year old Honda 8HP 4 stroke, jib roller furler, new hatch boards and all halyards and lines. Also have depth/speed/compass/VHF/Tiller support/winch handles, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements  
The boat's best features Trailerable. Roomy and bright. Fun to sail, looks and feels like a bigger boat. Easy to rig, ready and sail. The 18" draft in the Bay is a great feature too! Trailered it as far as 100 miles with no problems.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Original Yamaha became problematic and was replaced. No other major troubles.  
Sailing characterisitcs Good upwind sailing. Can be a bit tender in stronger winds but very manageable by easing the main.  
Motoring characterisitcs We have a Honda 8HP 4 stroke which is quiet and moves the boat very nicely, even in brisk winds or docking.  
Liveability Nice for 2 or 3 people for weekends. Have done only limited overnights.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Have asked them techncal questions and gotten comprehensive and good responses  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Bought it directly from the first owner but the local Hunter dealer, Nortons Yachts in Deltaville has always been extremely helpful and offering classes and other guidance.  
Other comments After these four years, we are ready to move up to the 30 ft class, but we will miss the "Off Call" and the fun it has been.