Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Ted

Year built 1993  
Location of boat Jacksonville, Florida  
The boat is sailed on Rivers  
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 1993  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes, Great versitility. Easy to sail, Great mast raising system.  
Gear that's been added Have Assymetrical Spinnaker. Just bought "tough Luft" foil system for a new headsail. Have a bimini top.  
Structural or complex improvements No  
The boat's best features Easy to raise and lower the mast. This is great for trailering to other locations.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Raising the rudder has always been a problem. You get back from a nice sail and want to put the boat back on the trailer. Almost have to get into the water to lift the rudder up.  
Sailing characterisitcs Sails good for a "pocker sailboat" There are compromises when comparing to a keel boat. Once you realise that it isn't as stout in windy conditions and adjust accordingly, it isn't too bad  
Motoring characterisitcs I changed the motor mounting bracket by adding 2 pieces of wedge wood between the boat and motor board. I was able to pick up another knot  
Liveability It is a bit small to live on. Works ok for weekend events.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Very good.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any The dealership and service department was excellent.  
Other comments Only wish it was bigger sometimes. I typically keep it on the trailer which saves cleaning, painting the bottom. Also saves on slip fees and Hurricane worries.