Hunter 380 vs Catalina 380

[Jason Garen]

How do you compare these 2 boats as far as value, ease of sailing and other sail characteristics, build quality

 

[Bill]

???

You have hit the proverbial toss up between the two. I suspect they are pretty even when it comes to quality of construction and sailing characteristics. Ease of sailing would depend upon the point of sail, down wind the Hunter with its swept back spreaders not quite as efficient, upwind Hunter easier to handle because of its fractional rig and small head sail. I think it comes down to traditional -vs- non traditional appearance and the owners personal taste and how he/she uses the boat.One would need to sail both boats and if I was considering either boat, I would charter each for a week and then make my decision.

 

[Brian]

Opinions are like...

I am getting ready to close on a H-380 and looked very closely at the C 380 also. The Hunter won out for several reasons (sailing chactarisitics balancing out as mentioned above).A lot of the little things sold me such as, the roomier cockpit, the non-centerline aft berth ( I am a tall guy and it has more headroom) the retractable dive ladder (we board at the tock from the stern, so it is always out of the way)It was things like these that I wish were different in my old boat, that Hunter did change. They seem to really listen to there customers and aren't afraid to change..Good LuckBrian FlyBri737@aol.com

 

[Bill O'Donovan]

Small point

Not that it's a sailing issue, but a credibility issue. Hunter has apparently been helpful in supporting this HOW site, which is freewheeling and evidently uncensored. I've been to both Catalina factories in Florida and Los Angeles, but I've been extremely impressed with Hunter's responsiveness to customers.

 

[Wally Boggus]

H v. C

What everyone else has said here is true re Hunter. I would have to say though that I think that the Catalina topside hardware package is more substantial (i.e. stanchions, winches, boom vang, blocks, etc.). Hunter hardware on my 320 is adequate just not as beefy as what I see on the C boats. I chose the H over the C for a number of reason though, the least of which is that women love Hunters!w

 

[Jack]

Garhauer

I think the new Catalinas use Garhauer for hardware. Their stuff looks first rate and has had several positive mentions on this BB, especially the rigid vangs.Sure hope they survive, unlike Merriman.