Hunter 23.5 for sea use

[yf wong]

Presently I have a Maxi 77 which is a 7.7 m keel boat. I have been eyeing on a Hunter 23.5 but my sailing friends advised me not to change to a water ballst boat as its stability will be compromised. I sail in coastal water and occassionall get caught in weather with swell up to 2 metres. By the way, is the 23.5 a slow boat that was designed for use on lakes instead of the sea?How is the H 26 when compared to the 23.5?Thanks for any info.Wong

 

[Dave Condon]

Speed

I sailed the first 23.5 in the Atlantic off Virginia Beach, VA September, 1992 and another later in the winter. Experienced 4-5 oot swells and enjoyed sailing. Following seas do not crash into the cockpit. The key with this boat is to sail flatter for better performance and to reef early. It will heel quicker than boats of its' size but will settle down faster after 5 degree heel. Too often alot of folks will try to sail with alot of heel and too much sail. Using precaution, you would be fine but it is more enjoyable with 3 foot swells or less.