Hunter Owner Reviews

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Review of the Hunter 420 by Mike

Year built 1998  
Location of boat Punta Gorda, Fl  
The boat is sailed on Bays, sounds, or protected salt water  
How the boat is used Multi-week coastal cruising  
Normal wind strength 10-15 knots  
Average size of crew 2-4  
Liveaboard? No  
Owner bought the boat in 1998  
If the clock could be turned back, would owner buy again? Absolutely. We looked at many large boats and picked this Hunter over more expensive boats.  
Gear that's been added Radar, Chart Plotter, Spinnaker, Stay Sail, Full Enclosure  
Structural or complex improvements None  
The boat's best features The livability. We lived on it for eight months followed by extended cruising. Very comfortable  
Problem areas in terms of design, materials, maintenance, etc. Basically everything works with only minor problems. Only major complaint is the steering. Very stiff.  
Sailing characterisitcs Have sailed to GeorgeTown, Bahamas with no problems including a very rough Gulf Stream crossing. Crossed Florida Bay in 27 knots.  
Motoring characterisitcs Cruises at 7.5 knots at 2800  
Liveability Excellent. This is why we bought it.  
The owner's experience in dealing with Hunter (if any) Have not  
The owner's experience with the boat dealer or broker, if any Yes, purchased at Sailors Wharf at St. Petersburgh, Florida. The Yard Master Jeff Stringfield is extremely knowledgable and takes a very personal interest in service trips and any problems. We just returned from having the bottom painted and quite a bit of general maintenance. They will remain our maintenance source. David Erdman is equally as qualified and helpful in specking out the original purchase and continues to show much interest in our satisfaction, 2 years later.  
Other comments The boat is relatively fast but not a world beater. Does not appear real competitive off the wind. Quite a stable boat and can handle the weather fine. The stay sail is nice in a breeze. We certainly feel secure and comfortable in all conditions we have experienced.