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Review of the Hunter 450 by John Weston

Year built 1997  
Location of boat San Diego CA  
The boat is sailed on Open ocean  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in H an  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Yes but might wait a little longer for break-in of a new model. I have been on a few other 450's and there are small but noticeable changes as the hull numbers progress. Most seem productive  
Gear that's been added Yes, Garmin 210 Chartplotter, Mast mounted radar - Rayethon, ST 700 type 2 autopilot, Sea-talk all instruments, Cruising spinnaker "Flasher" by Uk 165%, Placed padeyes for the turning blocks, thru-bolted and backed (with some difficulty -call me to find out how), all chain 300 ft ground tackle. No windshield but opted for a full dodger and sun cover back to the arch,....more planned  
Structural or complex improvements Just minor but creative rearrangement of cloths locker/hang lockers... moving poles, adding shelves, doors under bench seats, hooks etc. A continual process of improving that we all do  
The boat's best features Same as everyone else, Space below and sailing power and ease.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Reefer/freezer - poor seal of boxes from the factory. Overall balance of the Grunert system took some time to work out. Improving the seals helps but can cause latches to break down. I have talked with Hunter about this and a prototype is being tested for a better latch system due in three to four weeks. Also airlock is a problem when healing or backing down when docking.  
Sailing characterisitcs Great in moderate to heavy wind 10-20 but slow in light winds. Recently added 165% UK Flasher Cruising spinnaker. Really moves the boat! The small primary winches are not quite enough to handle the 90 ft sheets though. Especially if you have dodger with side panels. Would be nice to have a pair of larger ones on the pads just aft.Would have liked to see the jib tracks run a little further back for a better angle to flatten the foot more.  
Motoring characterisitcs We have the 78 Volvo. Great, strong ,powerful. Had some problems with air lock initially. Ok now. A little cold starting compared to the Yanmar. Handles great at all rpm's backs well into the slip. I'm used to this as a third time Hunter owner 37.5, 40.5, and now the 450  
Liveability Great!!!  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Good so far. Email has a fast response  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any H and S Yachts is a Great Organization  
Other comments  

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