Hi All, I am looking at buying a new hunter (Legends over here) 27, well infact have put down a boat show deposit. Now I'm being told by some that they like hunters and some who say they don't. Can I have some opinions? I'm planning on doing river/eastury sailing with the VERY occasional trip accross to the contient i.e going to Calais. I'm based on a tidal river and tend to go out to sea a bit. Mostly peoples concnerns are for the lack of a backstay? What are your views for the suitability of this boat and Hunter yachts in general? Personal experiences with Hunters would be appreciated. Any advice would be a help. Many thanks,
- Status
Advice on Hunters
Hunters are generally considered to be well equiped as a means for masking their lower quality compared to other production boats. The market is mature and yachts are built to a price point. If you desire a coastal cruiser with lots of goodies, it is a good choice. If your plans may take you farther off-shore, consider another manufacturer and give up some of the creature comforts.
Hunters are generally considered to be well equiped as a means for masking their lower quality compared to other production boats. The market is mature and yachts are built to a price point. If you desire a coastal cruiser with lots of goodies, it is a good choice. If your plans may take you farther off-shore, consider another manufacturer and give up some of the creature comforts.
Well Sorted Out
As far as the rig stability is concerned, it has been proven reliable and strong. In a recent article in a US sailing publication, a forum of designers acknowledged just that. Some people do not like missing the ability to bend the mast with a backstay adjuster and others that sailing dead downwind may be less efficient. However, tacking DDW is an option and the boats are generally good to windward and reaching. The ability to have a large-roach main is attractive and sail handling easy. If a roller-furling main is considered, many people have suggested regaining roach area by means of a vertical batten main. You may also want to consider an asymmetrical spinnaker for downwind work (and fun). Although the 27 is a new design, it is by a well-repected designer who has been updating Hunter's fleet. Quality has been upgraded in Hunter's line as it relates to joinerwork and interior detailing. The basic hull and sytems have been fine for decades. Hunters are somewhat different thus drawing some flack from non-owners, but they know their market and are (very) successful. Rest easily with your purchasing decision. Rick D.
As far as the rig stability is concerned, it has been proven reliable and strong. In a recent article in a US sailing publication, a forum of designers acknowledged just that. Some people do not like missing the ability to bend the mast with a backstay adjuster and others that sailing dead downwind may be less efficient. However, tacking DDW is an option and the boats are generally good to windward and reaching. The ability to have a large-roach main is attractive and sail handling easy. If a roller-furling main is considered, many people have suggested regaining roach area by means of a vertical batten main. You may also want to consider an asymmetrical spinnaker for downwind work (and fun). Although the 27 is a new design, it is by a well-repected designer who has been updating Hunter's fleet. Quality has been upgraded in Hunter's line as it relates to joinerwork and interior detailing. The basic hull and sytems have been fine for decades. Hunters are somewhat different thus drawing some flack from non-owners, but they know their market and are (very) successful. Rest easily with your purchasing decision. Rick D.
Article In "Practical Boat Owner"
I read an article in the September, 2004 Practical Boat Owner magazine (UK magazine) regarding a "Hunter Channel 27". I looks like the same boat. You may want to take a look at this article. In summary, though, they like the boat.
I read an article in the September, 2004 Practical Boat Owner magazine (UK magazine) regarding a "Hunter Channel 27". I looks like the same boat. You may want to take a look at this article. In summary, though, they like the boat.
- Status