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Review of the Hunter 386 by KARL MILLER

Year built 2004  
Location of boat Sacramento River Delta, SF Bay  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Day sailing  
Normal wind strength 16-22 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 2004  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Probably. The overall support, boat quality, comfort, performance and ease of use would still be a factor. For the most part, Hunter is still the best value out there. The only thing I would recommend to anyone buying a new Hunter would be to seriously question the dealer about the disclaimer you are required to sign in regards to the gelcoat spyder crack potential. Hunter feels they should accept no responsibility for this. As a high profile boat builder, I would expect them to perfect their trade within a tolerence of accpetable craftsmenship allowing their customers reasonalble peace of mind that their investment will not end up looking like a spider web of gelcoat.  
Gear that's been added Added a flat panel T.V. and generator. Would recommend anyone buying new to include a spinaker set-up and folding or feathering prop.  
Structural or complex improvements Yes. Removed the fold out table that cuts the cockpit in half. Wow, what a waste that thing is. Please request the dealer does this for you, as it is a real test of patience to do yourself. Upon removal, you start to realize the true size and utility of the cockpit. Dance anyone?  
The boat's best features The rear sateroom is the best in this size range. The overall interior layout is the best we have found. The B&R rig, once you learn proper sail trim is equally impressive. The cockpit is great after you remove the worthless table set-up. The stainless arch is a pleasant surprise. Very safe and seems to be very well attached. Would look for this option on any future boat.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Leakage around the rub rail. Has been back to the dealer once for repair, but still leaks. What do think about a MFG that allows their boats out before insuring a tight seal at the hull and deck joint? Hunter needs to spend more time on this. Production boat or not, the MFG is building a boat. The main objective is to keep the water on the outside!!  
Sailing characterisitcs With the B&R rig, roller furling jib and in mast furling main, you are able to achieve the perfect reef points. She sails great on the wind. Off the wind, a cruising chute will really make a difference. As the MFG suggests, always reef early vs late. She becomes very tender with full sail and 18 knots of wind. Best I have done is 9.5 knots of speed over the ground on a beam reach in 20 knots of wind, flat water. Nice feel to the helm when trimmed right. As the wind increases, big weather helm until reefed.  
Motoring characterisitcs I can't say enough good things about the Yanmar diesel. This one is a 39-40 horse depending on who you talk to. Cruise at 3000 on the tac usually making 6-7-8 knots depending on wind current etc. Backing down with the Hunter is a pleasure. Turn around and drive it backwards as easy as forward. A little prop wash with a 3 blade, but not unmanagable. Nice turning radius, very smooth.  
Liveability My wife calls it her little house. Enough said. Very comfortable for a weekend and beyond. Larger holding and water tanks would be nice.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) On a scale of 1-10..........7.5  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any On a scale of 1-10...........7.5  
Other comments Hunter, please, please offer your customers a one time credit to repair gel coat spyder cracks. Although this is a common occurance in a fiberglass craft, and although you require your customers to sign a disclaimer before they take delivery, excessive cracking should be taken care of within your 5 year hull warranty. Then, make sure your hull to deck joint is sealed correctly. Don't make your customers run your quality control for you.  

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