Hunter 28.5 Is she worth it ?

[Bob M]

I've been looking at buying a 1988 28.5 that is very well equiped and has a draft of 5'2".The price is within reason. I've been doing some research on Hunter boats and have received mixed messages from the individuals I've talked with. Some say Hunter boats in the size I'm looking at are cheaply built, are very tender in high winds and have weather helm problems, etc. Others say their a decent coastal cruiser for a small family.I understand I'm looking at a Chevy not a BMW.Who better to ask about the 28.5 than current owners of this boat. Any information you can provide regarding all aspects of this boat, be it good, bad or ugly would would be greatly appreciated. May you have fair winds.Thanks Bob

 

[Jack]

Check the Owner Reviews

My straight forward opinion as an owner is that the 28.5 seems to be a Hunter with very few inherent problems if any.Like most light weight cruiser/racers, you need to reef around 15 knts. If the rig is tuned properly, that means the built in mast rake needs to be tuned while the mast is unstepped, you can remove any weather helm all the way to lee helm if you would want to. Obviuosly a little weather helm is desired.The boat has very large interior for its size,but the head is small. Sailing characteristics are very good with downwind being the most debated point of sail due to swept back spreaders. Most sailors with any expereince know to tack downwind to achieve optimal results. It will achieve hull speed and beyond but it is no speed racer. Again a typical cruiser/racer.Motoring characteristics are excellent. The Yanmar 20 is a pefect match for this boat.Depending upon the price and condition it may be a boat worthy of consideration.Good luck

 

[Bob M]

Thanks Tom, Cliff and Jack

Thanks guys,  Your responses are greatly appreciated. Tom, your real close. She's out of Rockland. I'm looking at her on 3-16-02.