H23 vs H26

Status
Not open for further replies.
Jul 1, 2010
11
Hunter 23 Geist
I currently own an 1988 H23 wing keel and am looking to move up to a H26. I love my H23 but my wife and mother are not as enthused at how nimble the boat is. They would also like a bigger cabin. As far as performance, how different are they or am I just looking at a larger version of the boat I already have. My other option is to get a Catalina 25.

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Sean
 
Aug 11, 2011
1,015
O'day 30 313 Georgetown MD
Check the specs on the Catalina 25. I think you'll find them to be less desirable. There would be no solid door at the bulkhead. I compared them for a while and found the Hunter fitted my requirements favorably.
 
Aug 9, 2005
825
Hunter 260 Sarasota,FL
Had the same problem with my crew. We were in a Hunter 240 tiller version but found it a bit too small with no private head and pretty cramped down below. I jumped on a great deal I stumbled on with a '04 h260 in an Edson wheel version. The difference was huge.

While I can still trailer the boat (it actually trailers better than the 240 because of the dual axle trailer)the added space below and in the cockpit along with a very accommodating head was phenomenal. It's a much more substantial and stable boat but being built to trailer it wont be as stiff as a full keel boat. That said, like any boat it performs very well if you try to keep it from becoming a floating warehouse. With good sails, crew and a trim fit the 26/260 will always hold it's own until the wind is over 20-25kts. At that point, while it'll still get you home, a lead keel and more weight will be handier but your crew may not want to weather your high wind lust either(mine certainly won't).

Here's a view of both the 240 and 260 side by side and few of the 260 doing what it does best. If you want a very nice, larger trailer boat which can be trimmed out with plenty of comfort then go with the 260/26. Good luck in your search. Mike
 

Attachments

May 10, 2004
254
Hunter MH 37 Manitowoc, WI
We spent 15 years with our H26. The reason for the upgrade from a 23.5 is similar to other owners' experiences. Roomy interior in a trailerable package with an enclosed head. Spent a lot of good time on ours.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.