Hunter 260 Retractable Keel, Is it Bad??

[Scott Freeberg]

I had a chance to see a new Hunter 260 at the dealer the other week. I saw their retractable keel and kick up rudder. Since then I've looked at user reviews of the Hunter 260 on this website. Alot of the reviews seem to have the same complaint that the retractable keel and kickup rudder mechanism are not robust, are poorly executed, weak link. In spite of these comments, they still love the boat. Is the keel and rudder problem with the 260 a serious problem like it seems from the reviews? Thanks, Scott

 

[Ray Bowles]

Scott, We have a 95 H26 which is the parent of

the 260. Other than some slight changes in the beltline and interior they are the same boat. I currently have the centerboard off my boat and in the shop to repair the lower edge as it was scuffed in a freak accident last year. I was impressed with both the engineering and construction of this assembly. Granted, it was hard for me to remove it while the boat was on the trailer, but I didn't have the ability to sling her. Even at that it was a very straight foreward procedure.The ability to raise the CB and rudder has allowed us the pleasure of visiting many more areas and beaches normally visited only by the powerboat guys.The fact that this is about the largest reasonably towable sailboat was a factor in our selection of this boat and brand. The problems with the 260 are fastly being corrected and are not wide spread or present in all boats. With a little searching you should be able to find a fine boat. They are worth the search. My preference is to the H26 as they are a lot cheaper to purchase and I think, somewhat more robust. Check this site for H26 and 260's for sale. RayS/V Speedy

 

[Scott Freeberg]

Thanks Ray for the Advice

Thanks Ray for the advice on the retractable keel and news that you've had good luck with yours on the H26.While I was initially thinking bigger keelboat was better, bigger means fixed keel and more difficult to trailer. We don't have a crane on White Bear Lake so anything going in and out needs to be trailerable. Plus I'd like to take it to the St. Croix River and do river cruises with the sailing club there also.On the H26, I've seen photo's of them on this website and it looks like a great boat. I didn't know it was that similar to the 260, so I will spend some time learning the 26 features. Thanks again, Scott

 

[Dick]

In your own back yard

I was looking hard and long for a H26 this winter. One of the most reasonably priced ones was in the White Bear Lake Marina site. Didn't have the stern rail seats or electronics, but now I find there is after market seats. Check it out. It still might be available.