Boom Furler on Hunter 38

[John Marty]

I am looking at a new Hunter 38 but am concerned at the height of the boom for using a lazy jacks system with a conventional sail. I would have to climb up 3 steps on the mast to zip up the bag and this is difficult in port & dangerous at sea. I do not like the idea of in-mast furling as I really want a boat that sails properly. Does anyone have any experience with boom furling, particulary the option offered by Hunter? We often sail in 15-25kt.

 

[Don]

Ease of use

JohnLots of us share your consternation with the effort of closing up the main rather than settle for the easier approach and loss of efficacy of a furler. Personally, I found that losing the main at sea involves lowering it and placing a couple of sail ties to hold it in place sufficient when the seas are rough rather than trying to put on the cover in those conditions. Either lazy jacks or a Dutchman system will do a good job of holding the sail in place with one or two ties. My biggest gripe is having to climb the steps to reach the headboard back at the dock/mooring after a long day sailing when I'm tired on a realy hot day but that's the price one pays for a proper main. Don

 

[John Marty]

Ease of use

DonI am glad I am not the only one who thinks climbing the mast is daunting. Now that I have found a 38 owner perhaps you might help me with a few other questions. I like both the 36 & 38 but I suspect that the 36, though far more manageable, doesnt perform too well & although our new boat will mainly be sailed by my wife & I, I do have the need for speed. I currently own a Beneteau 361 with short keel & feathering prop & although it rounds up far too early in the gusts it does sail consistently at 7+kts & I dont want to go backwards from there. Is this your first Hunter & how long have you owned the 38 as I would also be interested to hear your opinion on general Hunter things like durability quality of fittings & the things you really like & dislike about your boat. Also, did you go for the 40hp engine upgrade? Look forward to hearing from you.CheersJohn

 

[Don]

Sorry to mislead

JohnI have a H 40.5 and didn't intend to mislead you regarding which model - I was speaking generically as I have the same issue with climbing the mast on our 40.5. Have not sailed either a 36 or 38 so hopefully others can help with the comparison. I am however a bit familiar with the B361 and can attest to the fact it isn't the most nimble boat around the marks. Having heard lots of so-called sailors bad mouth Hunters over the years made me somewhat skeptical of our choice to buy the 40.5 some years ago and I have since wondered how wrong they could have been. We were fortunate to have done some sailing in Sydney Harbor a few years ago and think you have the best location in the world to enjoy your boat... Good luck with your boat shopping.Don