Extended Passagemaking

[Jacqueline Kruger]

My husband and I are considering the model 340 for liveaboard and extended cruising. We would like to make extended open ocean passages. Would you please share your thoughts as to the appropriateness of this boat for our intended use. I've read her specifications, and have some other questions:1. What are her load carrying capacities (eg: lbs/inch immersion)2. What are her stability curves? (eg: vanishing stability)3. Are any structural modifications and or reinforcements needed or recommended for our type of intended service?Thanks. I appreciate any thoughts you may have.Jacqueline

 

[Chris Van Lauwe]

Hunter 340 as Ocean Going Vessel

I believe the information that you are seeking is available from Hunter or ask Jim Bohart in his forum here.We own hull # 7 Hunter 340. My wife and I sail on Lake Michigan. While we are fair weather sailers we do take her out into the six foot waves without problem and storms with 8 to 12 foot waves she behaves quite well as long as you reef early. It is easy to handle and sail.The 340 is rated an "A" classification, which means it is ocean capable but I still would want a longer waterline for ocean passages of duration. 40' and up constitute a comfortable ocean cruiser for my wife and I.Chris Van LauweFestina Tarde #107

 

[Wayne Estabrooks]

Ocean Going 340

I know this is Jim Boharts area but I have a 340 and wanted to put my 2 cents in. First of all, one of the most important items in going offshore in any vessel is the experience level of the skipper and crew. I plan to take my 340 some day on offshore coastal passages hopefully to the Virgin Islands. There would be several modifications I would make for long distance offshore voyaging and they have been talked about in these forums.