Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 31_83-87 by Tim Gabrielse

Year built 1984  
Location of boat Sheboygan, Wisconsin  
The boat is sailed on The Great Lakes  
How the boat is used Racing  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 5-6  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1990  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? YES!!!. I was a very inexperienced sailor when I bought her, and she has broght me through some very extreme conditions on Lake Michigan.  
Gear that's been added 1. Lewmar 44 winches2. Refigeration3. racing gear4. 3DL sails4. Polyester spinniker  
Structural or complex improvements NONE  
The boat's best features A VERY large boat for its length. Lots of living space. A very forgiving boat.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. The joint between keel and hull - not a smooth as other manufactors boats - always needs springtime attention  
Sailing characterisitcs It is a very good club racing boat (it sails well to its PHRF rating ) She needs to have her sails reduced earlier than most boats in heavy air, but she does not slow down. We also have found that she sails well in light air ( 1-4 KTS ), while in heavy air no one can beat her.Also a very nice crusing boat for my wife and myself for a week.  
Motoring characterisitcs The Yanmar does a very nice job when motoring. It does help to have some sail up to increase speed and stability.  
Liveability Very livable for a couple or a family with twop children. Couls easlity spend two weeks aboard without feeling cramped.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) The people in Florida at the plant are GREAT at answering my questions.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Great Buy  
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