Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 23 by Randy

Year built 1989  
Location of boat Toronto  
The boat is sailed on The Great Lakes  
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 2006  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes. Very good value for the money, and loads of fun so far.  
Gear that's been added Tiller Tamer, Halyards led aft to clutches, new lines, fenders, Speedo. New headsail and furling to come...  
Structural or complex improvements  
The boat's best features Roomy and Safe. with great lines. Nice airly layout, great fractional rig. The boat accelerates well and is a blast to sai.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Nothing in particular remembering the boat is going on 18 yrs old! I removed the sink/stove as I don't see it practical to use. I am not a huge fan of the carpet style liner...  
Sailing characterisitcs Boat is a bit tender, and mainsheet needs close attention in a stiff breeze, but in general it sails well. I find the boat does not point as well as others, and suffers more leeway (due to the shoal kee) than similar sized boats. I also question the design of the aft section/transom of the boat - the transom drags through the water when heeling, and even while at the dock the transom/hull transition is below the water.  
Motoring characterisitcs I find that with the high freeboard, light weight and small keel, it tends to get blown around when motoring at slow speeds. If I am approaching the dock in a crosswind, I find the boat drifts sideways quickly once I throttle down. The boat is otherwise pushed well by a 4.5 hp Merc. If find for tight turns, the motor has to be turned (as well as rudder)  
Liveability Overnighted once or twice - great for that, but you have be happy with a "camping" approach. I love sleeping on the boat.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) N/A  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Angus Yachts in Port Credit - they are awesome. There is no better. They hosted a major Owner's rendevous and welcomed me warmly despite the fact I was in the smallest boat (by far) and was not a direct customer. They have my future business for sure.  
Other comments I really like our 23, my sons love the boat, and my wife accepts it. All good!