Hunter 20 -- need opinions

[Roberta]

I'm planning on buying my first boat in August or Sept. I've been leaning toward a Catalina 22 or Oday 22 because an older one is more in my price range than most Hunters I've seen (though I'd love a 23.5). I recently came across an ad for a Hunter 20 and need some opinions. I read some reviews and most had a problem with the swing keel raising/lowering. I need something I can trailer/launch/sail alone as well as with a companion. I really like the Hunters -- just on a tight budget --like under 4K.

 

[Suzanne Teagle]

Go for it!!

I was at the same point as you last October. I found a fixer upper (Hunter 22) for $1,500 and then put in $2300 on a new Honda 4 stroke with an electric start. Currently, I am finishing the 2nd coat on the top deck to finish it with a one part poly. It has taken awhile to cosmetically fix it up, but I've been sailing it for 5 months.

 

[Roberta]

cabin room in the 20?

I realize the cabin is pretty small, but from the pictures it looks like it's arranged to maximize the space that it has. I figure 2 could weekend on it easily. Could 4 fit in the cockpit for a daysail?

 

[Kent Younge]

In the same boat

Roberta,I was in the same boat as you. I looked at several Catalina 22's. Then I started looking at Hunters that were in my price range. Needless to say I bought the Hunter. I have had it for about a month now and have recently finished cleaning it up and adding a few things to the boat that I wanted. I have taken it out several times and I really enjoy this boat. I have sailed on several different kinds of boats. I also liked the Catalina's as well but I felt that Hunter was the right boat to have for my first boat. If you would like more information you can contact me. I am in the owner’s section.