In replies to a recent posts, many Hunter owners told me I should seriously consider purchasing a Cherubini Hunter. I've read some of the archived messages in this group and know there are strong feelings about this designer an his boats. My question is, what it is about these boats that makes them so special? I'm particularly interested in boats in the 25 - 30 foot range. Thanks in advance. Patrick
- Status
All replies will be subjective, but here goes mine
I looked at many used boats in the 25-29' range as well prior to settling on my 1978 h27. During the buying process, I saw many newer boats, but kept going back to that one. It was initially a matter of looks. It looked more like a traditional design that would be capable on the open sea, and not just sit pretty in a marina, or go for the typical 2-hour daysail. 9'3" beam and a 7000# displacement. Admirable for her size. Once below, I was sold on the cabin layout and its traditional feel as well (equaling some 30-footers!). Split head design and engine access were attractive to me. Sleeps five. During my sea trial in 25+ winds, and 8-ft. seas, I was ultimately more impressed than anything else with her stability (deep keel version - 3000# of solid lead) and her pointing ability even with a reefed main and the 90% jib. Speed is not her forte, but I did hit six knots that day. The h30 is simply the bigger identical twin, and would also be a good choice if a bit more room (specially headroom) is desired and finances permit. In the 30" category, the field becomes more crowded however. There are, of course, the perennial Catalinas to consider, Ericsons, U.S. Boat, a nice full keel Cape Dory, etc. It now becomes more a matter of personal taste, intended use, and budget.
I looked at many used boats in the 25-29' range as well prior to settling on my 1978 h27. During the buying process, I saw many newer boats, but kept going back to that one. It was initially a matter of looks. It looked more like a traditional design that would be capable on the open sea, and not just sit pretty in a marina, or go for the typical 2-hour daysail. 9'3" beam and a 7000# displacement. Admirable for her size. Once below, I was sold on the cabin layout and its traditional feel as well (equaling some 30-footers!). Split head design and engine access were attractive to me. Sleeps five. During my sea trial in 25+ winds, and 8-ft. seas, I was ultimately more impressed than anything else with her stability (deep keel version - 3000# of solid lead) and her pointing ability even with a reefed main and the 90% jib. Speed is not her forte, but I did hit six knots that day. The h30 is simply the bigger identical twin, and would also be a good choice if a bit more room (specially headroom) is desired and finances permit. In the 30" category, the field becomes more crowded however. There are, of course, the perennial Catalinas to consider, Ericsons, U.S. Boat, a nice full keel Cape Dory, etc. It now becomes more a matter of personal taste, intended use, and budget.
Most Cherubini owners are bigots!
Patrick: Most of the Cherubini owners are bigots, but I must tell you that they are very nice handling boats. If you are looking for handling over space and livability of the boat they are just an excellent boat. The Hunter 37C is probably the best sailing boat that Hunter ever built. The down side to most of these boats was the power plants are a little on the weak side for the size of the boat. They have their traveler across the front of the cockpit, which makes it a little more difficult to have a dodger and a bimini. The older models did not have many opening ports (later models did). Fairly small cockpits. Rigging is on the mast and not to the cockpit (all of which can be rectified with money). A friend of mine has a 1980 H'30 and I must say, I wish my H'31 sailed as well.
Patrick: Most of the Cherubini owners are bigots, but I must tell you that they are very nice handling boats. If you are looking for handling over space and livability of the boat they are just an excellent boat. The Hunter 37C is probably the best sailing boat that Hunter ever built. The down side to most of these boats was the power plants are a little on the weak side for the size of the boat. They have their traveler across the front of the cockpit, which makes it a little more difficult to have a dodger and a bimini. The older models did not have many opening ports (later models did). Fairly small cockpits. Rigging is on the mast and not to the cockpit (all of which can be rectified with money). A friend of mine has a 1980 H'30 and I must say, I wish my H'31 sailed as well.
Count the reasons
John Cherubini is recognized by the sailing community world wide as one of the great designers of the 70s. Hunter pioneered the concept of selling a production boat fully equipped and therefore no options other than keel configuration were offered. This means to the used boat buyer, he/she will be getting a lot more boat for the buck. Compare a Cherubini Hunter to a similar Catalina and you will quickly see the difference. You are looking at the 27ish size so lets compare a 1980 Cherubini Hunter 27 to the Catalina. The Cherubini has all of the following and the Catalina does not or it was an expensive option that many used boats would not have. 1 Wheel steering 2 Tee shaped cockpit 3 Diesel aux (most Catalina’s use an OB) 4 8 opening ports..screened of course 5 solid wood doors (Catalina used a cheap plastic curtain). 6 Teak and holly soal 7 Halyards led to cockpit Some may say the Catalina’s are a bit faster, but I have not found that to be the case. If you haven't bought a boat by February, Check out the article on the Cherubini Hunters in Good Old Boat Magazine (Feb 2001 issue. Yes, I may be a bigot, but I consider myself an experienced one.
John Cherubini is recognized by the sailing community world wide as one of the great designers of the 70s. Hunter pioneered the concept of selling a production boat fully equipped and therefore no options other than keel configuration were offered. This means to the used boat buyer, he/she will be getting a lot more boat for the buck. Compare a Cherubini Hunter to a similar Catalina and you will quickly see the difference. You are looking at the 27ish size so lets compare a 1980 Cherubini Hunter 27 to the Catalina. The Cherubini has all of the following and the Catalina does not or it was an expensive option that many used boats would not have. 1 Wheel steering 2 Tee shaped cockpit 3 Diesel aux (most Catalina’s use an OB) 4 8 opening ports..screened of course 5 solid wood doors (Catalina used a cheap plastic curtain). 6 Teak and holly soal 7 Halyards led to cockpit Some may say the Catalina’s are a bit faster, but I have not found that to be the case. If you haven't bought a boat by February, Check out the article on the Cherubini Hunters in Good Old Boat Magazine (Feb 2001 issue. Yes, I may be a bigot, but I consider myself an experienced one.
I'm a bigot too.
Took another couple out for an afternoon and anchored for dinner and a shrimp on the Barbee and birthday cake, etc. I was 62 today have had my Cherubini Hunter 27, 1979 model for over 17 years and would not trade for another and hope to sail her for another 17 years. Ya I'm a bigot but with justifiable pride of ownership. Thanks.
Took another couple out for an afternoon and anchored for dinner and a shrimp on the Barbee and birthday cake, etc. I was 62 today have had my Cherubini Hunter 27, 1979 model for over 17 years and would not trade for another and hope to sail her for another 17 years. Ya I'm a bigot but with justifiable pride of ownership. Thanks.
Progress
I don't think they are bigots just afraid of progress. Have any sailed the new boats and not liked them? We had an old style boat and can't imagine not taking advantage of the newer and most times better designs and technoligy. But then some people still have an 8 track tape player to listen to at anchor. Andy Hansom Hunter 380 Vanishing Point
I don't think they are bigots just afraid of progress. Have any sailed the new boats and not liked them? We had an old style boat and can't imagine not taking advantage of the newer and most times better designs and technoligy. But then some people still have an 8 track tape player to listen to at anchor. Andy Hansom Hunter 380 Vanishing Point
?
if you really know your cherubini boats, you would know by far his best boats didnt have hunters name on them, why have an imitation when you could have the real thing?
if you really know your cherubini boats, you would know by far his best boats didnt have hunters name on them, why have an imitation when you could have the real thing?
Best boats?
Ted, I suppose you're right if money is no object. I have spoke with John Cherubini's brother who still builds John's designs for a price tag I can't even phathom. On the other hand, if price is an issue, as it is for 98% of us sailors reading this forum, one of the best things about the HUNTER Cherubinis, is the affordability! Happy sails, Don
Ted, I suppose you're right if money is no object. I have spoke with John Cherubini's brother who still builds John's designs for a price tag I can't even phathom. On the other hand, if price is an issue, as it is for 98% of us sailors reading this forum, one of the best things about the HUNTER Cherubinis, is the affordability! Happy sails, Don
Fear of progress?
As I cruised into Long Island Sound last year I saw one of your "new" boats being towed in with it's mast laying across the deck...so much for progress. B&R may work in theory, but what happened to the safety of redundancy. Unfortunately designers are tasked with how to build them cheaper and faster and not necessarily how to build them better. I will, however, consider taking out the 8 track and getting one of those new fangled CD players, just to show I have an open mind! Don
As I cruised into Long Island Sound last year I saw one of your "new" boats being towed in with it's mast laying across the deck...so much for progress. B&R may work in theory, but what happened to the safety of redundancy. Unfortunately designers are tasked with how to build them cheaper and faster and not necessarily how to build them better. I will, however, consider taking out the 8 track and getting one of those new fangled CD players, just to show I have an open mind! Don
They look like sailboats
I think one of the reasons the Cherubini models are so popular (besides relative price) is that they look like real sailboats(inside and out), and in the larger sizes (33 and 37) ride and sail better in some instances than newer designs. Besides that, have we mentioned that they are a lot of boat for the money (we might just be a cheap bunch).
I think one of the reasons the Cherubini models are so popular (besides relative price) is that they look like real sailboats(inside and out), and in the larger sizes (33 and 37) ride and sail better in some instances than newer designs. Besides that, have we mentioned that they are a lot of boat for the money (we might just be a cheap bunch).
All seriousness aside, simply
the best Hunters ever built. And that's objective, not subjective. Just ask any of us owners. Steve, my 1979 has too many opening portlights, all eleven! And four hatches on top. Mast stepped to the keel. Ten shrouds/stays and can let main all the way out downwind. No B&R will stay with her(is the H50C a B&R?). But seriously, my wife would rather have a new 340/380. It really is a matter of use(after $$$). More people in the cockpit and bright, airy salon. She loves that big aft cabin with a real bed. Then we would have to stay at the dock or in the river.
the best Hunters ever built. And that's objective, not subjective. Just ask any of us owners. Steve, my 1979 has too many opening portlights, all eleven! And four hatches on top. Mast stepped to the keel. Ten shrouds/stays and can let main all the way out downwind. No B&R will stay with her(is the H50C a B&R?). But seriously, my wife would rather have a new 340/380. It really is a matter of use(after $$$). More people in the cockpit and bright, airy salon. She loves that big aft cabin with a real bed. Then we would have to stay at the dock or in the river.
Our first boat, was it a mistake?
Our 1982 Hunter 27 is our first boat and I think it was a good choice. Maybe with some experience I will worry about who designed it and become a bigot but we approached it with some specifics. She wanted 6 foot of headroom amd an enclosed head. I wanted to be able to handle it myself if necessary and stressed functional simplicity in the systems. Also we wanted room to take some friends along. This boat had it and at a price we could afford. Finally I will agree with the others it looks like a sailboat! Last summer I got to look at Mowat's, Boat that Couldn't (wouldn't?)Float. Now there's a sailboat. Andy
Our 1982 Hunter 27 is our first boat and I think it was a good choice. Maybe with some experience I will worry about who designed it and become a bigot but we approached it with some specifics. She wanted 6 foot of headroom amd an enclosed head. I wanted to be able to handle it myself if necessary and stressed functional simplicity in the systems. Also we wanted room to take some friends along. This boat had it and at a price we could afford. Finally I will agree with the others it looks like a sailboat! Last summer I got to look at Mowat's, Boat that Couldn't (wouldn't?)Float. Now there's a sailboat. Andy
she liked it, end of story.
Actually we both fell in love with the boat. Yeah, were cheap, so we bought the most boat for the least money. To do other wise is, well, not very wise. As most sailors, we don't have a lot of extra money but we do have time to sail, so sail we do,we both agree that sailing is more fun than work. Our 1981 H33 allows us to sail and live aboard for weeks at a time in comfort. Yes, we've sailed the newer cruising and "go fast" boats and they sure are nice, and expensive!! I actually have the boat I plan to keep for a long while, she sails well and suits our sailing needs beautifully. We've sailed her in drifting conditions (okay, we motored) up to 30 knots on the nose with 8'-10' seas. Nothing broke and other than the crew being tired, everyone and everything held up fine. Hell, several months ago while at the breakfast table a yacht broker called me and asked if I was interested in selling my H33 (he got my name from the list of owners on this web site), he promised I'd get a great price. No way, she's part of the family.
Actually we both fell in love with the boat. Yeah, were cheap, so we bought the most boat for the least money. To do other wise is, well, not very wise. As most sailors, we don't have a lot of extra money but we do have time to sail, so sail we do,we both agree that sailing is more fun than work. Our 1981 H33 allows us to sail and live aboard for weeks at a time in comfort. Yes, we've sailed the newer cruising and "go fast" boats and they sure are nice, and expensive!! I actually have the boat I plan to keep for a long while, she sails well and suits our sailing needs beautifully. We've sailed her in drifting conditions (okay, we motored) up to 30 knots on the nose with 8'-10' seas. Nothing broke and other than the crew being tired, everyone and everything held up fine. Hell, several months ago while at the breakfast table a yacht broker called me and asked if I was interested in selling my H33 (he got my name from the list of owners on this web site), he promised I'd get a great price. No way, she's part of the family.
IT'S NOT TUPPER WARE
stur up time, I have a 1982 27' cherubine design, ample fore deck w/ anchor well, 16" wide side decks, 8 opening ports, 2 hatches, built in sea spray hood, full coaming, T shaped cockpit, pedestal steering, deisel aux. pwr. small stern, short overhangs, high aspect rig, dbl lwr. shrouds, extruded spreaders, nothing aluminium, good running lights, and the best cabin layout around, it looks like a Tartan 28, weighs the same, but the tartan has a large stern, and costs three times as much, NEGATIVE: no bridgedeck, (corrected) no main traveler sys., (corrected w/boom vang) hershear lines, freeboard, and design is much to my liking, and has more potential than all of the production boats from 25 to 30 feet.
stur up time, I have a 1982 27' cherubine design, ample fore deck w/ anchor well, 16" wide side decks, 8 opening ports, 2 hatches, built in sea spray hood, full coaming, T shaped cockpit, pedestal steering, deisel aux. pwr. small stern, short overhangs, high aspect rig, dbl lwr. shrouds, extruded spreaders, nothing aluminium, good running lights, and the best cabin layout around, it looks like a Tartan 28, weighs the same, but the tartan has a large stern, and costs three times as much, NEGATIVE: no bridgedeck, (corrected) no main traveler sys., (corrected w/boom vang) hershear lines, freeboard, and design is much to my liking, and has more potential than all of the production boats from 25 to 30 feet.
It just feels right
My wife and I looked at all the major (well used) 27-footers out there with the equipment we wanted, and the H27 was the only one she was smiling while she walked around inside! Seriously, I'm 5'7" and she's 5'2" and we just fit! That is, everything is laid out well. It's as though someone mocked up the cockpit, deck and interior and "tried it on" until it was right. Hope this little bit helps.
My wife and I looked at all the major (well used) 27-footers out there with the equipment we wanted, and the H27 was the only one she was smiling while she walked around inside! Seriously, I'm 5'7" and she's 5'2" and we just fit! That is, everything is laid out well. It's as though someone mocked up the cockpit, deck and interior and "tried it on" until it was right. Hope this little bit helps.
Just two more cents...
I bought mine becaused it looked like a sailboat should. After looking for two years to find a boat I fell for the H30. The size was palatial for me, and very comfortable when a friend stays over. This boats atributes keep shining everyday. Nine opening ports, Hot water shower, 6'+ V-berth, almost 10,000# displacement, skeg hung rudder, 2 cyl Yanmr, Running riging lead to cockpit, traveler over the sea hood, wheel, "T" cockpit. Everything you could want in a boat and then some. All for less the 20K. There is a 77 or 78 H27 in my marina for sale the guy is asking 9K Aside note; Some of the 27's were fitted with Renault Diesel's, There is only one distributer in the US. Pat
I bought mine becaused it looked like a sailboat should. After looking for two years to find a boat I fell for the H30. The size was palatial for me, and very comfortable when a friend stays over. This boats atributes keep shining everyday. Nine opening ports, Hot water shower, 6'+ V-berth, almost 10,000# displacement, skeg hung rudder, 2 cyl Yanmr, Running riging lead to cockpit, traveler over the sea hood, wheel, "T" cockpit. Everything you could want in a boat and then some. All for less the 20K. There is a 77 or 78 H27 in my marina for sale the guy is asking 9K Aside note; Some of the 27's were fitted with Renault Diesel's, There is only one distributer in the US. Pat
My wife made the choice
I cannot take the credit for chosing my 1979 Cherubini designed Hunter 25. My wife made the choice. I have been in boating for a number of years (both power and sail) and owned more boats than I care to think about. When we were moved into the greater Detroit area, we left our 22ft O'Day behind and I began looking at once for a suitable replacement. I first got involved in racing on a 27 Catalina Tall Rig and learned what the waters of this area were like. All the while, I was looking for a boat of my own. Within my price range, the choice came down to a 26' vintage Pearson, a 25' 1983 Catalina and a 25' 1979 Hunter (all in excellent condition). To my wife, all looked alike from the outside but the interior warmth and coziness exuded by the Hunter was all she needed to make her decision. It was the traditional lines that appealed to me. Having settled on the Hunter (Pearson being a close second), we took it for a test sail. This was the final deciding factor: out came the checkbook. What made "Whisper" special for me, at least initially, was: she looked like a sailboat should; the interior was warm and comfortable; she sailed great; and, of course, the price was right. Every day that I take it out, every cruise that I take, I become more impressed with it. It is not the fastest boat on the Lake nor is it the roomiest boat for its size but it is the boat for me. The dealer who sold me the boat held a weekend rondezvous this year. He made the comment that "for the price, no one enjoys there boat more nor has more fun sailing than you". That is probably the reason why all us Cherubini owners are so passionate when it comes to the Cherubini Hunters. No one has more fun for the investment made than we do.
I cannot take the credit for chosing my 1979 Cherubini designed Hunter 25. My wife made the choice. I have been in boating for a number of years (both power and sail) and owned more boats than I care to think about. When we were moved into the greater Detroit area, we left our 22ft O'Day behind and I began looking at once for a suitable replacement. I first got involved in racing on a 27 Catalina Tall Rig and learned what the waters of this area were like. All the while, I was looking for a boat of my own. Within my price range, the choice came down to a 26' vintage Pearson, a 25' 1983 Catalina and a 25' 1979 Hunter (all in excellent condition). To my wife, all looked alike from the outside but the interior warmth and coziness exuded by the Hunter was all she needed to make her decision. It was the traditional lines that appealed to me. Having settled on the Hunter (Pearson being a close second), we took it for a test sail. This was the final deciding factor: out came the checkbook. What made "Whisper" special for me, at least initially, was: she looked like a sailboat should; the interior was warm and comfortable; she sailed great; and, of course, the price was right. Every day that I take it out, every cruise that I take, I become more impressed with it. It is not the fastest boat on the Lake nor is it the roomiest boat for its size but it is the boat for me. The dealer who sold me the boat held a weekend rondezvous this year. He made the comment that "for the price, no one enjoys there boat more nor has more fun sailing than you". That is probably the reason why all us Cherubini owners are so passionate when it comes to the Cherubini Hunters. No one has more fun for the investment made than we do.
Everyone Keeps telling me .......
Well, let me count the ways... I have owned "Freebird" for over 18 years... I'm the original owner of a 1982 Hunter 33. I loved her when I first got her, have loved her ever since. Lately, I have reworked a few things, made a dodger, redesigned some of the interior. Everyone who steps aboard her remarks.. this was one of Hunters best built boats. Others remark at the 6'5" or 6'6" head room. One friend had just visted a Cal 37 (new) and said I had more head room on my 33 than the Cal. I'll have to take his word on that. But time and time again, I am reminded by others at how well designed and built the Cherubini Hunters are... I too have no desire to trade or sell my "Freebird" For what ever reason you asked this question... it must have more hits than any other. Enough said.
Well, let me count the ways... I have owned "Freebird" for over 18 years... I'm the original owner of a 1982 Hunter 33. I loved her when I first got her, have loved her ever since. Lately, I have reworked a few things, made a dodger, redesigned some of the interior. Everyone who steps aboard her remarks.. this was one of Hunters best built boats. Others remark at the 6'5" or 6'6" head room. One friend had just visted a Cal 37 (new) and said I had more head room on my 33 than the Cal. I'll have to take his word on that. But time and time again, I am reminded by others at how well designed and built the Cherubini Hunters are... I too have no desire to trade or sell my "Freebird" For what ever reason you asked this question... it must have more hits than any other. Enough said.
- Status