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Review of the Hunter 23.5 by Deane Reichow

Year built 1994  
Location of boat St. Croix River, MN  
The boat is sailed on Rivers  
How the boat is used Weekends and longer  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 5-6  
Liveaboard?  
Owner bought the boat in 1994  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Definitely. We really enjoy the boat and still feel it is the best value in it's class.  
Gear that's been added Roller furler, compass, lazy jacks and quick reef. I also constructed a plastic shelf for the gally to hold paper plates, cups, utentisils, knives, etc.  
Structural or complex improvements My Johnson outboard required a slanted transom board for mounting the motor. I made some aluminum wedge blocks to set the correct angle for the transom board.The ramp I launch my boat from is quite steep - resulting in the bow of the boat hanging up on the trailer and also scraping along the tongue extention when it's in the trailering position. Therefor, I made 3 heavy duty rollers to lift the bow as the boat enters the trailer.I also added two reef points to the sail - what a difference. I can easily adjust to any wind condition.  
The boat's best features Roominess, ease to sail and return on investment. We have frequently had 8 adults on the boat for an afternoon of sailing - and the boat handles the weight well.  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. As mentioned above, the trailer needs rollers for steep ramps. I have been trying to trace some intermitent water problems in the hull and Hunter has been most cooperative. I need to configure a device to fully raise the rudder while on the water. I like to back into sand islands and stop the boat in about 2 feet of water - but the rudder (even in the semi raised position) is in the way.  
Sailing characterisitcs While my wife does not like to heel beyond 15 degrees, a friend of mine with a great deal of experience sailed the boat comfortably at 40 degrees. He was pleasantly surprised at the speed of the boat - we overtook a larger boat he thought would walk away from us.We have sailed in a variety of wind conditions - but reef early to avoid excessive heeling.We also motored the boat 50 miles down the river for a weeks adventure in Lake City, MN.  
Motoring characterisitcs The boat motors very well.  
Liveability Great for two. We sleep in the V berth and store items in the aft bearth.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Excellent - they have been very responsive to my requests.  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any  
Other comments  

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