Well the time is approaching to move up to a larger boat. We’re looking for something in the 27-30ish range. We live in a small lake front community in Texas and do not cruise. We may on rare occasions do an overnight (5 people) but that’s about it. Our main interest now is finding enough room for friends and family for day trips around our little lake. A max of about 4 adults and 5 kids (Gad, that sound like a lot!) To be honest, I’m fairly happy with my little 23 and I have quit trying to lure J boats into shallow water, I promise! Given our situation, the required room just isn't there. Our marina slip will hold about a 30 something boat. I know our neighbor has a Hobbie 33 (that’s our Mayor. Cool town huh?) And there’s a Henderson 30 at the end of the dock with everything else between. Our requirements involve carrying capacity more than sleeping capacity. We’ve looked at the 25.5 as a maybe (head room issue) and my wife has given her approval to the 28.5 (I think because it looks so much like our little 23) also interested in the old 30’s (slow?) and 31’s. I’m afraid I just can’t get into the newer hunters with their complicated transoms and tow rail to toe rail cabins. I’d like to here comments both positive and negative as well as an availables you may know of. Thanks, Greg/Kristen/Susie/Grayson
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funny you should ask
In another thread, Don of Annapolis has a H31 for sale although he cannot submit the shameless ad as a post. If you need lots of room in a boat no bigger than 30-31 feet I **DEFINITELY** recommend the H31; it's friggin' huge on deck and seats seven in the cockpit including helm if you're very cozy. 4-5 comfortably without knocking each other in the ribs/head/ear when running the running rigging. There are at least 2 of them here in the Metroplex and you are hereby cordially invited to come visit my boat and take her for a spin. Send me email, I'm in the directory. You can see Salty Dog in several pictures in the Photo Forum and Owner Pictures, and no, she is not for sale, but will give you something local to compare with. As for the other "euro" models like the 28.5, they are almost identical to the 31. Maybe a little bit different head or dinette, but otherwise, the hull and rig is identical, just smaller. The H30(74-83) is the Cherubini style and is not as beamy as the euro style boats. Great sailing boat, but not as roomy inside or out.
In another thread, Don of Annapolis has a H31 for sale although he cannot submit the shameless ad as a post. If you need lots of room in a boat no bigger than 30-31 feet I **DEFINITELY** recommend the H31; it's friggin' huge on deck and seats seven in the cockpit including helm if you're very cozy. 4-5 comfortably without knocking each other in the ribs/head/ear when running the running rigging. There are at least 2 of them here in the Metroplex and you are hereby cordially invited to come visit my boat and take her for a spin. Send me email, I'm in the directory. You can see Salty Dog in several pictures in the Photo Forum and Owner Pictures, and no, she is not for sale, but will give you something local to compare with. As for the other "euro" models like the 28.5, they are almost identical to the 31. Maybe a little bit different head or dinette, but otherwise, the hull and rig is identical, just smaller. The H30(74-83) is the Cherubini style and is not as beamy as the euro style boats. Great sailing boat, but not as roomy inside or out.
So Jay, now you're on my case too?
Geez, I havn't even decided to sell my boat and everyone is giving me grief. I can say, emphatically, that the H31 is a great boat, especially for the price you pay. Roomy, handles very well, and looks great for the age. That's why I bought mine. Jay, I don't really understand your comment in the previous reply but I wasn't trying to sell it for free via my posting on Irwins (if that's what you thought.) I am fully prepared to list my boat here and elsewhere, and pay to do so if and when I get ready to sell her. Phil should be able to confirm that I had already emailed him about how the HOW listings work. I think the HOW site is the best thing going. In fact, it's one of the reasons I'd hate not to have a Hunter. What a day! I am going back to bed now.
Geez, I havn't even decided to sell my boat and everyone is giving me grief. I can say, emphatically, that the H31 is a great boat, especially for the price you pay. Roomy, handles very well, and looks great for the age. That's why I bought mine. Jay, I don't really understand your comment in the previous reply but I wasn't trying to sell it for free via my posting on Irwins (if that's what you thought.) I am fully prepared to list my boat here and elsewhere, and pay to do so if and when I get ready to sell her. Phil should be able to confirm that I had already emailed him about how the HOW listings work. I think the HOW site is the best thing going. In fact, it's one of the reasons I'd hate not to have a Hunter. What a day! I am going back to bed now.
Wait, wait, wait!
No, wasn't getting on your case at all Don. Didn't realize it came across that way; it was fully intended be at least a little humorous....ooops, guess that didn't happen. My apologies. I was just saying, that it is possible to find H31s for sail (sale) around here. Lesson learned, though, I will butt the heck out in the future. (much applause in the background I'm sure.) 92 days and counting.
No, wasn't getting on your case at all Don. Didn't realize it came across that way; it was fully intended be at least a little humorous....ooops, guess that didn't happen. My apologies. I was just saying, that it is possible to find H31s for sail (sale) around here. Lesson learned, though, I will butt the heck out in the future. (much applause in the background I'm sure.) 92 days and counting.
Older Hunters
If you are considering an older Hunter Circa Cherubini .... I would suggest that you look into Stern perches. Older Hunters don't have Rail Seats and this addition makes the cockpit much roomier. I bought a set at A.C boat show. They are sold on the HOW site too.
If you are considering an older Hunter Circa Cherubini .... I would suggest that you look into Stern perches. Older Hunters don't have Rail Seats and this addition makes the cockpit much roomier. I bought a set at A.C boat show. They are sold on the HOW site too.
Ever been aboard a Hunter 34?
Hi Greg, I guess you could say we're neighbors! We have a 1983 Hunter 34 at Bay View marina in Lake Ray Hubbard. Sail over and come aboard to take a look. She sails great, is VERY roomy and after 6 years we are even more happy with our choice. (daysail parties up to 12 adults! great fun!!!) After owning 5 other sailboats this is the only one that has cured my "bigger boat fever" forever! My wife went nuts over the interior layout! I have sailed on a Hunter 28.5 and 31. Also great boats.(I suggest the H 31) Charles & Lynn Duhon "Artistry" (972)222-2981 (give us a call sometime)
Hi Greg, I guess you could say we're neighbors! We have a 1983 Hunter 34 at Bay View marina in Lake Ray Hubbard. Sail over and come aboard to take a look. She sails great, is VERY roomy and after 6 years we are even more happy with our choice. (daysail parties up to 12 adults! great fun!!!) After owning 5 other sailboats this is the only one that has cured my "bigger boat fever" forever! My wife went nuts over the interior layout! I have sailed on a Hunter 28.5 and 31. Also great boats.(I suggest the H 31) Charles & Lynn Duhon "Artistry" (972)222-2981 (give us a call sometime)
Slightly Older is Better
When my wife and I took lessons on S.F. Bay, we found that the new Hunters in the charter fleet we a little light and, with no backstays,found the swept back spreaders a little rough on the sails while running downwind. We bought a used 1991 Hunter 28. My wife is 5'11" and head room is fine. The boat is just a little more stable in high winds than the newer (lighter)models. I find that I can flatten the sails in higher winds and put off reefing in situations where the new boats have got to reef. They tend to be faster, but the S.F. Bay winds can be rough and stability is more of a plus in my mind. The new designs came in about 1994. Kick the "tires" and check out what suits you. Gary Scheier "Serenisea"
When my wife and I took lessons on S.F. Bay, we found that the new Hunters in the charter fleet we a little light and, with no backstays,found the swept back spreaders a little rough on the sails while running downwind. We bought a used 1991 Hunter 28. My wife is 5'11" and head room is fine. The boat is just a little more stable in high winds than the newer (lighter)models. I find that I can flatten the sails in higher winds and put off reefing in situations where the new boats have got to reef. They tend to be faster, but the S.F. Bay winds can be rough and stability is more of a plus in my mind. The new designs came in about 1994. Kick the "tires" and check out what suits you. Gary Scheier "Serenisea"
fivefootitis . . .
is the disease you have, but its easily cured. I'm a former 28.5 owner and they are great boats, but I would reccommenf that you get the biggest boat that you can fit into your slip (i.e, the h31) The 28.5 is big for her size, but any more than 2 people, or 2 people with a small kid, and for more than weekends, it will get small on you real quick. So get the big one--you know you want it, and you'll end up getting it eventually, so why put off the inevitable?
is the disease you have, but its easily cured. I'm a former 28.5 owner and they are great boats, but I would reccommenf that you get the biggest boat that you can fit into your slip (i.e, the h31) The 28.5 is big for her size, but any more than 2 people, or 2 people with a small kid, and for more than weekends, it will get small on you real quick. So get the big one--you know you want it, and you'll end up getting it eventually, so why put off the inevitable?
I hate to say it but
Have you looked into a Cat. It sounds to me like you want a roomy pleasure boat rather than a pure sail boat. If you are taking out novices and non sailors, you will probably find the flat sailing will be more there thing. Also the room per foot of length is considerably greater on the Cat
Have you looked into a Cat. It sounds to me like you want a roomy pleasure boat rather than a pure sail boat. If you are taking out novices and non sailors, you will probably find the flat sailing will be more there thing. Also the room per foot of length is considerably greater on the Cat
What'sa Cat?
We purchased an 87 Hunter 31 last spring and have loved it here on the Chesapeake Bay...it's our first sailboat and it handles very well and was very forgiving to us the first year. Just love it...we have had up to ten adults on it without a problem...and the headroom is great and room inside is very nice for weekends and week long trips. Happy looking...just wanted to pass our experience on to you. Who's this Cat person in here...LoL. ...Larry... Sandy Sea
We purchased an 87 Hunter 31 last spring and have loved it here on the Chesapeake Bay...it's our first sailboat and it handles very well and was very forgiving to us the first year. Just love it...we have had up to ten adults on it without a problem...and the headroom is great and room inside is very nice for weekends and week long trips. Happy looking...just wanted to pass our experience on to you. Who's this Cat person in here...LoL. ...Larry... Sandy Sea
Cat boat?
If he means a true Cat then I have to say "no thanks". I admit that on the rare occasions I caught a true Cat on the water I turn into a slobbering fool and follow it around like a puppy. Gaff rigs, mast hoops, spruce masts and all that. I just don't have the dedication to sail/maintain a real piece of history. If he means Catalinia, then again "no thanks". I believe the Hunter line falls into the category of "off center" boats (not for everyone). Catalinia's are, I’m sure, great boats and for everyone. It's a personality issue. Hunters have genuine strengths and weaknesses, which go toward making up an identifiable personality. Over the years, I've collected many great MGs, Lancias, Jaguars and Matchless Motorcycles. My credentials as real sucker for personality over practicality are in place. I will stay with Hunter. Greg
If he means a true Cat then I have to say "no thanks". I admit that on the rare occasions I caught a true Cat on the water I turn into a slobbering fool and follow it around like a puppy. Gaff rigs, mast hoops, spruce masts and all that. I just don't have the dedication to sail/maintain a real piece of history. If he means Catalinia, then again "no thanks". I believe the Hunter line falls into the category of "off center" boats (not for everyone). Catalinia's are, I’m sure, great boats and for everyone. It's a personality issue. Hunters have genuine strengths and weaknesses, which go toward making up an identifiable personality. Over the years, I've collected many great MGs, Lancias, Jaguars and Matchless Motorcycles. My credentials as real sucker for personality over practicality are in place. I will stay with Hunter. Greg
just my opinion
Greg, Our family went through a similar situation about 2 years ago. We outgrew our Chrysler 22 and needed something bigger also for inland lake sailing. We found a 1990 Hunter 28, this model ended production in 1994, which offers a touch of tradition, a bit of Euro styling (walk-thru transom is GREAT with kids) and plenty of room for 6 adults plus kids daysailing. It's a beamy boat with an aft cabin and an aft head – big boat creature comforts/systems. She sails nicely and draws less that 4 feet. We are delighted with "Legacy" and like many on this board, can't quite get into the "new" Hunter designs. Good luck. Greg & the Wilde Ones Let us know what you decide/purchase.
Greg, Our family went through a similar situation about 2 years ago. We outgrew our Chrysler 22 and needed something bigger also for inland lake sailing. We found a 1990 Hunter 28, this model ended production in 1994, which offers a touch of tradition, a bit of Euro styling (walk-thru transom is GREAT with kids) and plenty of room for 6 adults plus kids daysailing. It's a beamy boat with an aft cabin and an aft head – big boat creature comforts/systems. She sails nicely and draws less that 4 feet. We are delighted with "Legacy" and like many on this board, can't quite get into the "new" Hunter designs. Good luck. Greg & the Wilde Ones Let us know what you decide/purchase.
Catamaran
I was thinking of a catamaran. It all depends what is your priority. If its space per foot of length then a Cat has it over anything else. I wouldn't get one because I would miss burying the lee rail
I was thinking of a catamaran. It all depends what is your priority. If its space per foot of length then a Cat has it over anything else. I wouldn't get one because I would miss burying the lee rail
Oh, Catamaran. No, no, to old. Way to old.
Hey, we actually chartered a 60-foot Catamaran one-year in the Caribbean. It had excellent sailing characteristics. Zooming from Island to island, it was perfect. It just had 1 to many hulls and heeled like it was on a over-center spring. In light wind it’s perfectly flat and fast. In heave air it just gave me the willies. Maybe I’m to old. Then there’s slip rental issues…..
Hey, we actually chartered a 60-foot Catamaran one-year in the Caribbean. It had excellent sailing characteristics. Zooming from Island to island, it was perfect. It just had 1 to many hulls and heeled like it was on a over-center spring. In light wind it’s perfectly flat and fast. In heave air it just gave me the willies. Maybe I’m to old. Then there’s slip rental issues…..
I LOVE my 28.5!
We also moved up from a 1989 H23 to a 1988 H28.5 when we moved from small lake sailing to Lake Michigan. We have had her 5 years now and she is great. I can single-hand her, we have cruised the lake for up to 3 weeks at a time and have partied on her with up to 9 people (8 adults, 1 child). SHe can take weather. The Yanmar runs like a champ. I have a 110, 150, and a cruising spinnaker for her. There are no less than 5 28.5's in our harbor and everyone loves them. And, they are fast! Good luck in your search.
We also moved up from a 1989 H23 to a 1988 H28.5 when we moved from small lake sailing to Lake Michigan. We have had her 5 years now and she is great. I can single-hand her, we have cruised the lake for up to 3 weeks at a time and have partied on her with up to 9 people (8 adults, 1 child). SHe can take weather. The Yanmar runs like a champ. I have a 110, 150, and a cruising spinnaker for her. There are no less than 5 28.5's in our harbor and everyone loves them. And, they are fast! Good luck in your search.
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