Hunter 35.5 vs Hunter Vision 36

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Oct 23, 2012
42
Hunter 35.5 Adger, AL
I'm starting to look at Hunters to buy.

I'm stuck between the 35.5 and the V36.

My situation. To get either to my slip, I will need to step the mast. That means all the time I'm at home, my mast will need to be supported, and carried on the boat.

I like both models, but tend to lean toward the 36.

I'm looking to bounce around the Caribbean in the vessel, to give some useful information about use. Mostly from gulf coast to Grenada.

I would like opinions.

James L
 

Rick D

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Jun 14, 2008
7,182
Hunter Legend 40.5 Shoreline Marina Long Beach CA
Can't Go Wrong

Both are great boats. For the cruising you describe, I'd opt for the V36. It should be easier to rig and unrig for your needs and will by virtue of the free standing mast's sail plan, easier to handle in a variety of conditions. As a nine-year V32 owner, I may be a bit partial (we were looking for a V36 to buy and couldn't find one before we purchased our 40.5). I would put a third reef in or, if a new main sail, deepen both reefs (same for the 35.5).

But, like I said, it would be hard to go wrong with either. I'm sure you have read all the reviews. I have friends with 35.5's and they race them, successfully. Good sailing boats. The V36 is no slouch either. You will have the usual need for updating in either and a sail inventory may be in the works if they are well-used originals. Either would benefit from an A-sail, maybe less the Vision.

Good luck!
 
Oct 23, 2012
42
Hunter 35.5 Adger, AL
What about the mast stepping?

With the 35.5 the issue is with a mast stepped mast, where the Vision is a keel stepped mast.

Do you think the keel stepped mast would be an issue?

James L
 
Dec 2, 1999
15,184
Hunter Vision-36 Rio Vista, CA.
Re: Can't Go Wrong

We really like the unstayed rig of our HV'36. Be aware that the mast weighs about 800 lbs. The length is probably over 60 ft. The main sail is the same general dimensions as a Hunter 46.

The boat does very well in light air. Don't know much about sailing in your area but this could be a big advantage for your sailing grounds.

You will need a large crane to step the mast.
 
Oct 23, 2012
42
Hunter 35.5 Adger, AL
We really like the unstayed rig of our HV'36. Be aware that the mast weighs about 800 lbs. The length is probably over 60 ft. The main sail is the same general dimensions as a Hunter 46.

The boat does very well in light air. Don't know much about sailing in your area but this could be a big advantage for your sailing grounds.

You will need a large crane to step the mast.
The marina we have picked to step the mast has a 73 foot mean water level capability. I would think that would be iffy when high tide, but would probably be capable most any other time.

James L
 

McCoy

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Jul 5, 2004
5
Hunter Vision 36 Harborwalk (Galveston, TX)
James, the Hunter 36 Vision is a great vessel for both sailing and living aboard. We sailed Kalypso on a lake here in north Texas for about 4 years, before moving her down to the Texas coast. I can't speak to your particular sailing grounds, but she has done very well here on the Texas coast.
We have had to step her mast twice, once for the move down from the lake. Secondly due to storm damage, when the mast was replaced. Yes, you will need a crane but the keel mount through the cabin deck it is very simple once the once the water tight boot is in place.
The biggest difference we have found for the Hunter 36 Vision was the liveablity of the boat at the dock or underway. The storeage, cabin space, galley, and salon area make her a unique pleasure for living on board or weekend cruises.
If I can be of further assistance please feel free to contact me directly by email
 
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