1984 hunter 30 sailboat

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• Sailboat Guide

Hunter 30 is a 30 ′ 4 ″ / 9.3 m monohull sailboat designed by John Cherubini and built by Hunter Marine between 1973 and 1983.

• 2 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 3 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 4 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 5 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 6 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 7 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 8 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 9 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 10 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 11 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 12 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 13 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 14 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 15 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 16 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View
• 17 / 17 Stonington, CT, US 1983 Hunter 30 $13,500 USD View

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Shoal draft: 4.3’. A keel/cb version was also available.

Tall Rig: I: 42.00’/12.80m J: 12.83’/3.91m P: 37.00’/11.28m E: 10.70’ / 3.26m Total (100% main +fore.): 467.38 ft2/43.42 m2 an unfinished (kit) version was called the QUEST 30.

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The Hunter 30 is a 30.4ft masthead sloop designed by John Cherubini and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1973 and 1983.

1000 units have been built..

The Hunter 30 is a moderate weight sailboat which is slightly under powered. It is very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally very small. There is a very short water supply range.

Hunter 30 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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HUNTER 30 Detailed Review

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of HUNTER 30. Built by Hunter Marine (USA) and designed by John Cherubini, the boat was first built in 1973. It has a hull type of Fin with rudder on skeg and LOA is 9.27. Its sail area/displacement ratio 15.99. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by Yanmar, runs on Diesel.

HUNTER 30 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about HUNTER 30 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, auxillary power tank, accomodations, contributions, who designed the hunter 30.

HUNTER 30 was designed by John Cherubini.

Who builds HUNTER 30?

HUNTER 30 is built by Hunter Marine (USA).

When was HUNTER 30 first built?

HUNTER 30 was first built in 1973.

How long is HUNTER 30?

HUNTER 30 is 7.85 m in length.

What is mast height on HUNTER 30?

HUNTER 30 has a mast height of 10.42 m.

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First Boat Help: 1984 Hunter 34 or 1983 Catalina 30

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Hello, Could use some advice on a purchase I'm looking to make soon that entails a choice between two boats. The first is a 1984 Hunter 34 with the compression post repaired in 2012, the second is a Catalina 30 that is also in decent condition. I'll have survey's done as recommended, but can anyone give a real world comparison of the two and a recommendation? I do like the room on the Hunter 34 and want it as a place to go to on the weekend as much as something to sail. The Catalina is quite roomy too, but I'm of the impression this boat might be more dependable and less trouble free. The boat being equal in use, and price be comparable; what would be the recommended choice? This would be a first boat me, so that may be a factor those who may give a recommendation. If it comes down to "buy what you prefer, they're similar in dependability...", I may go with the Hunter 34. Thanks in advance. Ted  

The H34 is, of course, a considerably larger boat. More freeboard, maybe less cockpit, probably a better aft berth. I'd also suspect it's a bit more lively than a C30, which is one of the least tender production boats out there. The one thing I remember from the H34 is the narrow, tight access to the galley past the companionway.. not sure if this is a big issue from day to day but on prints and in person it looks like a 'pinch point'. Hard to beat Catalina's support network both owners and builder, and the C30 is a comfy boat that will save you money on moorage costs and other consumables because it's smaller than the Hunter.  

Both are fine "first" boats with plenty written about each. The Hunter will likely be faster (though a bit more tender) and offer more cabin space and privacy (private aft cabin), as you've noted. However, the H34s had iron keels and I've seen a couple recently from the mid-1980s that looked super rusted and scary. Sounds like the biggest known issue with the H34 (mast base) has already been addressed with the boat you're looking at. The Catalina 30 is a very popular boat and thus will likely retain value better than the H34 if you maintain it properly. Parts and support are also readily available for the C30, both from Catalina, other private suppliers and the online community. While the H34 may have a larger cabin than the C30, the C30 has a roomier cockpit. The H34 cockpit is one of the smallest I've seen for coastal cruiser without a canoe stern. If it's just you and one or two other crew this might not matter, but 4 or more is a crowd in the H34 cockpit.  

Ron, Thanks for the feedback. Still seems like a tough choice. The Hunter 34 has a iron keel, should that be a worry down the road? As of now, it looks in good condition. The Hunter as a Yanmar 3GMF 22hp diesel engine, the Cat has the typical Universal. I'd have to say the Hunter looks in better shape and less dated, but the Cat has had a new 5 coat Interlux coating in the last year and looks good. There's actually two Cat 30's that are on my short list and it seems there are A LOT of sailboats on the market that have been sitting around for >6months around the Chesapeake. Thanks Ted  

The iron keel would not be a deal breaker for me, esp if it looks good now. The trick to these is not letting things get away on you rust-wise. Seal them and keep them that way. There's always the issue of lead being more forgiving in a grounding (debated by some) but plan A should be not to hit anything so in some way's it's a moot point. I think both the Universal/kubota and the Yanmar are reliable engines.. if both are FWC then that's probably another wash. Engine access might be slightly easier on the Hunter.  

Those 80's model Hunter 34's were some roomy boats, and not bad performers. But, for a mid size starter boat, either one would be good.  

All Great Advice, Guys! Thx I may be able to get the H34 at $12k, the 1983 C30 at $10k, the other 1985 C30 maybe at $8k. What's the "Catalina Smile" I hear about and how can I identify it? Also, are compression posts a problem in Cat30's? Thx  

These are both fine boats. Buy the boat that is in better condition, better gear, and most importantly, the one you like the best. The smile: a crack along the hull to keel joint. Usually not a problem. Ask your surveyor if it is on the particular boat your looking at. Compression post: Not a problem. As always check for deck deformation or deck spongyness. Deck deformation is seen in cracks, or cabinetry that is out of square; examples: doors that don't open or close properly.  

the paint on the cat 30 would tell me that the boat may have needed it to cover bad looking gelcoat or there was a repair that only paint would cover. once a boat is painted it will need to be repainted about every 5 years. hunter has a small cockpit but larger inside, where are you going to spend most of your time when on the boat? check on slip availability in your area. where I sail the cut off on slip size is 33'. a 34' boat would require a 38' slip and the cost goes way up and there is a 5 year wait to get one.  

I think the idea of the best condition, but I know of an O'day 30 that is in excellent condition in that same area! Look at deniseO30's boat: http://www.sailnet.com/forums/boat-...1982-oday-30-whole-package-2.html#post2236625 I have to admit that I have not seen the boat, but have watched her posts here on the work she has don to it and would be confidant to buy it sight unseen myself if it were bigger.  

A little bit apples and oranges, comparing a 34 and a 30. I have a preference for one of the brands you mentioned, but that preference is less important to me than my preference for whether I want a 30 or a 34. Looking at the displacement of a 30 vs. a 34 will usually make that difference more apparent.  

There is a C&C 34 on craigslist in Annapolis for 14k that will sail circles around both if it is in good condition.  

I have to second the suggestion about Denise's boat. She's certainly worth a look, if nothing else. As between the C30 and the H34, that's a tough call. What will fit your needs better? Is this your first boat? Do you have a family? Will you be overnighting or mostly day sailing? Where will you sail? Have you looked at the difference in price for a slip/mooring between the two boats?  

I had owned a 1986 Hunter 28.5 and now a 1988 Catalina 30. IMO the Catalinas of that era were better constructed when it came to gel coat finish and interior woodwork. I also think that Catalina used a lot Garhauer hardware while Hunter used hardware from companies no longer in business or are no longer supporting their products such as Maxwell winches. I also prefer the Catalina 30 because of its' fiberglass liner instead of carpet which tends to absorb odors. Catalina Direct and the Catalina factory are way more supportive when it comes to support while Hunter is of little help, especially since Hunter was taken over by Marlow. I do like the Hunter fiberglass grid system and I think the Hunters' of that era are better sailing boats. A little tender at first but then they hold and take off. They back straighter and are more responsive. You don't mention which engine the Catalina has. At one point they used a 12hp. diesel which was later switched to a 3 cyclinder model. It is a tough call between the two but given the vintage of both boats there is no doubt replacement equipment will add dollars to your initial outlay. The larger the boat the larger the hole to pour money into. Other issues have been thoroughly discussed. I wish you well in making your decision.  

Additional questions for evaluation, is the Cat 30 a tall rig? What about electronics etc. I have a H-34, moved up from a Cat 27. The Hunter has fairly good access to all systems. Yes, you can say the boat is tender but you lean to manage that through good sail control and reefing. What is the condition of the sails on the different boats? We frequently sail with 6 and don't find it overly tight. I did add stern "babe" seats which add to the comfort for multiple guests. The other change I made was a switch from the continuous line furler to a single line. The Hood 810 was a PITA, until I found a conversion kit. The Hunter is also definitely faster than the Catalina. It handles the chop of Lake Michigan very well. Cast iron keel as noted above is an annual maintenance issue but not a big issue if done correctly.  

Aside from just price is condition of sails, running rigging and standing rigging, upgrading any of those things are serious costs, just price out a new main or headsail. Also, electronics and lastly IMHO well before an inspections is checking to see what lights, switches, etc... work. In all reality the boat itself is the least expensive part of owning a boat. I bought a C22 for $6,500 that was in exceptional shape and after new sails, bottom paint and tons of little things (mostly because I'm super OCD) I had another $5k in it.  

Tedman, Jim, anyone that's in my area. There are a number of boats for sale at my club. There's a Ericsson 32, Endeavor 32, 30 ft German boat, and my boat of course LOL I'm selling the whole package so the price would seem high. Aside from all the boats for sale. I'd like to invite you to the club and get to see some boats close and personal. Closing day, Nov 1 st! 2- 6 pm! Lots of food, barb chicken, pulled pork, burgers, dogs, salads, plus liquids $10!!!  

I agree that Hunters depreciate faster, but as the buyer of a used Hunter you may have the opportunity to make that depreciation the prior owner's problem. When I was shopping 5 years ago I personally didn't find a Hunter that I was willing to consider. The ones I saw all seemed moldy and smelly. But I suspect a well cared for Hunter from one of their better production runs could make a good first boat for coastal waters.  

I am a Hunter 34 owner and have grown to love the ol boat. She's an 85 and yes I have put money into her and in fact am rebuilding and designing the interior, but thats the issue with older boats, no matter what make they are. As mentioned, she is a little tender alright but lightly loaded she will sail her numbers in 16 knots of wind with no problem. After that it is like the man said, reef. One is usually enough to 20knots. I renovated the keel year before last, not a fun job but now it is sealed behind 3 coats of interprotect and 2 coats of bottom paint. Seems to be holding up well. I also re torqued the keel bolts and they are solid. The Yanmar 3gmf is a bomber little engine. I have only replaced wear parts and changed the oil. in the last 5 years. Get a good survey, visit the hunter owners forum for a lot more information. I don't know the Catalina 30 but I know I can sail much faster. Ha  

Folks, Thanks for all the positive feedback, as it was quite helpful. This weekend I made an offer on a 1985 Catalina 27 that was super clean and well kept. It was a much better deal and a lot better shape than the cat30's and much cheaper than the Hunter 34. Being it my first boat and a beginner to sailing, I thought this was the best choice as it didn't see overwhelming both financially and skill wise. Fortunately, other than the marine survey that'll be done this week, the only thing needed is waxing and a coat of paint on the hull. Everything else is ready to go. Thought it doesn't have the room as the other boats, it is comfortable for two people and only draws 4' which will come in handy in the upper part of the Chesapeake. Thx Ted  

Congratulations Ted! Now we need pictures!!!  

Looks like I have to have 10 posts, before I can submit pictures. I currently have only made 5 posts. I'll post when I can.  

Congrats! good choice although much smaller then you were looking for. C27 are great boats! Engine? In board or out?  

It's an inboard diesel. I think it's 14hp, with 810 hours on it.  

With it cold, the diesel started right up. It's internally cooled.  

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• Sailboat Reviews

Like other Hunters, the 34 bears the stamp of a mass-produced boat--but she's better than older Hunters.

When the Hunter 34 was introduced in late 1982, it was the second of the “modern” generation of Hunters, the first being the rather remarkable Hunter 54. The Hunter company has been strongly identified with the long-distance singlehanded racing of its president, Warren Luhrs. Although Luhrs has not been particularly successful in his racing, his own boats have been innovative, and the concepts of innovation and high-tech have to some degree rubbed off on Hunter’s production boats.

Hunter has always gone after the entry-level cruising boat owner, and has traditionally pushed its “Cruise Pac” concept—a boat delivered equipped down to the life jackets, and ready to go. This certainly reduces the amount of decision making required by inexperienced boat owners, and has been a successful marketing strategy. For more experienced sailors who would rather choose their own gear, the Cruise Pac idea is not necessarily a plus.

In just over three years, over 800 Hunter 34s were built. For the 1986 model year, the 34 was phased out in favor of the even more Eurostyled Legend 35.

A number of Hunter 34 owners responding to our survey moved up from smaller boats in the Hunter line—exactly what every builder would like to see happen. All reported that the Hunter 34 was lightyears ahead in both design and workmanship compared to earlier models.

Because the Hunter 34 was only in production for a few years, few changes were made between model years. You are therefore less likely to find major upgrades on older boats than you would find on a boat that has been in production for a long time.

Sailing Performance

The Hunter 34 is a fast boat, particularly in light air. This is due almost entirely to her huge rig, which towers over 51′ above the waterline. Owners report that in winds of from seven to 12 knots, the boat is practically unbeatable in club racing. The typical PHRF rating of 135 for the deep keel boat is faster than most other cruiser/racers of her size.

There is a price to be paid for that speed, however. A number of owners responding to our survey report that the original Hunter 34 is a very tippy boat, in either the deep keel or shoal draft version. In winds of 15 knots true or more, it’s time to reef the main when going upwind. In fact, the boat’s lack of stability is the single most commonly criticized aspect of the Hunter 34’s performance in our survey. One owner was considering cutting several feet off his mast. Others have stepped down from 150% headsails to 135% or smaller overlaps.

Normally, you would expect a boat with a 42% ballast/displacement ratio to be stiff. The keel of the deep-draft Hunter 34, however, has most of its weight and volume up high, while the shoal draft keel, even with its extra 220 pounds of ballast, still has a fairly high vertical center of gravity. This just goes to show that you can’t judge a boat’s stability by its ballast/ displacement ratio—you’ve got to know how far down that weight is, too.

Models late in the production run had more ballast. The 1985 Hunter 34 brochure shows about 450 pounds more ballast than in the 1983 model. For cruising, the additional ballast would be a real plus. For club racing with a full crew, the lighter boats could be sailed faster.

Using headsails smaller than 150% on the Hunter 34 would be a good idea, particularly if you couple them with a modern roller furling system. A 135% jib can more effectively be reduced to 110% than a 150% genoa can be reefed to 120%. Since the boat is sensitive to sail area, a good headsail roller furling system is a must, in our opinion.

According to several owners, the Hunter 34 carries substantial weather helm in anything more than very light air. This may in part be due to the boat’s tenderness. As boats with wide sterns and narrow bows heel, the waterplane becomes substantially asymmetrical, which can give the boat a pronounced tendency to head up.

This weather helm may be exacerbated by an original rudder design that some owners report was both too small and too weak for the boat. Several owners reported cracking of the original rudders, which Hunter replaced with a larger, stronger, “high performance” rudder. Unfortunately, in some cases Hunter only paid part of the replacement costs; owners were stuck with the rest. We wouldn’t want a Hunter 34 without the high performance rudder. The better rudder was standard equipment on 1984 and 1985 models.

The complex B&R rig, with its swept-back spreaders and diamond shrouds, is also a headache for some owners. There’s a lot of rigging for a novice to adjust, and according to our survey, the dealers who commissioned the boats were not necessarily more capable of adjusting the rig than the owners.

One problem with the B&R rig is that, on any point of sail freer than a broad reach, the mainsail will fetch up on the spreaders and shrouds. You can apply patches to keep the spreaders from poking holes in the mainsail, but we think the shrouds are likely to chafe on the sail almost from head to foot when running, no matter what you do.

In addition, the lack of either forward lower shrouds, baby stay, or inner forestay means that if the headstay goes, the rig may follow before you can do anything to prevent it. One owner in our survey reported losing his rig when the roller furling headstay failed. Most new sailors have enough trouble tuning a simple, single spreader rig with double lower shrouds. The multi-spreader, multi-shroud B&R rig may seem incomprehensible to them, and they may never be able to tune the rig for good performance.

The boat is very fast upwind, but only average in speed off the wind. With a spinnaker, downwind performance would be greatly improved. The high aspect ratio mainsail simply doesn’t project enough area for efficient downwind sailing, particularly since you can’t square the boom to the mast due to the swept-back spreaders.

Most Hunter 34s are equipped with the Yanmar 3GMF, a three-cylinder, fresh water cooled diesel that puts out about 22.5 hp. This is an excellent engine, although early versions, according to some owners in our survey, were plagued by vibration.

Some of the first Hunter 34s were equipped with the Westerbeke 21 diesel. In our opinion, the Yanmar is a much more desirable engine. For boats to be used in salt water, check to make sure that the engine is fresh water cooled, rather than raw water cooled.

Some early versions of this engine lacked fresh water cooling, and they will not last as long when used in salt water.

Access to the engine for service is good. The Yanmar is more than adequate power for the boat, and she should cruise under power at 5 1/2 knots or more without any trouble. The fuel capacity of 25 gallons should give a range of about 275 miles.

Construction

Hunters are mass-produced boats at the low end of the price scale. The Hunter 34 was the first “small” Hunter to be built with a molded hull liner. A molded liner can add considerable strength to a single-skin boat, and the use of integral molded furniture components can greatly speed assembly. Assembly is the right word, too: these boats are assembled, rather than built.

The original tooling for a hull liner is quite expensive. It is therefore only practical on a boat that is expected to have a fairly large production run.

Not everything about the Hunter 34’s hull liner is a plus, however. According to several owners, any leakage from the stuffing box can be trapped between the liner and the hull, never draining to the bilge. This could not only smell bad after a while, but could possibly cause problems in a cold climate if trapped water freezes without room to expand. The preassembly technique common with liners also means that many systems are installed in ways that can make them difficult to service after the hull, deck, and liner are put together.

Hunter quality control is criticized by some owners in our survey. Complaints include chafed hoses, raw edges, systems hooked up improperly, and leaking ports and hatches. In our opinion, that’s a quality control problem, pure and simple, and it can be a maintenance headache for owners. One owner reported a leaking hull-to-deck joint. When he checked it, he found that many of the bolts had apparently never been torqued down when the hull and deck were joined. We don’t think the boat should have left the factory in that condition.

On the positive side, owners of Hunter 34s who had owned older Hunters report that in general the construction details of the 34 are superior to those of older boats.

Do not expect to find a lot of fancy teak joinerwork on the Hunter 34. Some owners complain that both the interior and exterior teak trim is poorly fitted and poorly finished. Obviously, you could do a lot to improve this if you wanted to—as some owners have—but don’t expect a dramatic increase in the value of the boat for your efforts.

The iron keels of the Hunter 34s can also be a maintenance headache. Some owners say the keels did not come from the factory with adequate protection to avoid rusting—which is almost impossible to prevent with an iron keel. Other owners report that the keel-to-hull seam cracks open, allowing salt water into the joint—which results in more rust. This is a cosmetic problem now, but we think it could over time become a structural problem.

The deck molding has been a source of trouble on some boats. The molded non skid isn’t very nonskid when it gets wet. There are also a number of reports of gelcoat flaws in the deck, including voids and blistering. At least one owner reports that the outer deck laminate in his cockpit has separated from the wood core.

Several owners complain that some molded deck components—cockpit locker covers, anchor well covers—are simply too light, and tend to crack.

The Hunter 34 was one of the first boats under 35′ to offer a tri-cabin layout, and this interior design is frequently cited as a primary reason for buying the boat. Now, of course, it is common for boats this size to have three cabins.

The only real complaint voiced about the interior of the Hunter 34 is the narrowness of the foot of the forward V-berth. Despite being pushed far forward in the hull, the forward cabin feels big due to the long cabin trunk, which extends clear to the anchor well, giving extra headroom over the berth. Standing headroom in the forward cabin drops off to less than 6′ due to the sloping cabin trunk.

Just aft of the forward cabin is a full-width head. This makes a lot of sense in a boat this size, since the combination of head and passageway would make for both a cramped head and a narrow passageway. According to some owner surveys, the plumbing for the toilet leaves a lot to be desired. They report that the holding tank system smells, apparently due to porous hoses and a poor vent design.

Instead of the more common U-shaped dinette, the Hunter 34 has a rather old fashioned dinette with athwartships seating. This certainly makes it easier to convert the dinette to a double berth, but it means that you can seat a maximum of four at the table for dinner. On the port side, the head of the settee berth is used as the seat for the chart table—a design compromise, since that settee is one of only two potential sea berths on the boat.

Original specifications call for a two-burner kerosene stove. Kerosene never caught on as a cooking fuel in this country, partly because it is so difficult to  get high-grade kerosene here. Propane or CNG would be far better choices for cooking fuel, since low-grade kerosene is a dirty fuel, and alcohol is expensive, inefficient, and in our opinion, dangerous.

As you would expect on a boat this size, the aft cabin is pretty small, with limited standing area. Despite the fact that the double berth is mostly under the cockpit, there is adequate headroom over it due to the fact that the cockpit is quite shallow.

The privacy of the tri-cabin layout is very important for a family with children, or owners that like to cruise with another couple. The single fixed berth in the main cabin means that the boat will sleep only five without making up the dinette. “Only” five is a pretty good number in a boat this size, and the most important thing is that it sleeps five in a reasonable level of comfort. All in all, the interior of the Hunter 34 is well thought out and livable.

Conclusions

The general design and finish of the Hunter 34 are far ahead of older boats by the company. The Eurostyling of the deck and interior were pretty unusual when the boat first came out, but fairly typical of boats built five years after the Hunter 34 was introduced.

Nevertheless, this is still a mass-produced boat with what some owners consider mediocre quality control and finishing details. It is a fast sailer, but may be so tippy that it discourages some novices. You should definitely sail the boat before you buy it. The B&R rig may also scare off some new sailors. Because of the problems with the deck molding, a used Hunter 34 should be carefully and professionally surveyed before purchase.

If you want a fast, modern small coastal cruiser with maximum room at minimum cost, a Hunter 34 would be a good choice. But remember that you’re buying a mass-produced boat, and it’s not realisitic to expect custom quality at this price.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Thank you for the comprehensive report. It is very practical and enlightening allowing a potential buyer to make an educated decisiion

I have a deep keel version of the 1999 Hunter 340 – Trinity. She has excellent pointing characteristics allowing her to sail up to 15 degrees off the apparent, and we win races as a result. However, it takes a bit of wind to move her with our 110% headsail. She’s best around 15 knots apparent; above that reefing is advised going to windward. I don’t consider her tippy, but certainly if you push her, you’ll get lots of helm and the rail in the water. I’ve raced her single handed in Georgian Bay in 35-42 knots apparent, winning the Meaburywood Trophy in 2021, an inter-club race of 15 boats. I like her a lot but being on the cusp of retiring, I am looking for a bigger boat to allow longer range cruising.

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• 1984 Hunter

1984 Hunter Boats for sale

1984 Hunter Sloop

North East, Maryland

Make Hunter

Model Sloop

Category Sloop Sailboats

Posted Over 1 Month

1984 Hunter Sloop This nice little boat is perfect for a fist time sailor on a budget.Sleeps four.

1984 Hunter Legend 40

Mamaroneck, New York

Model Legend 40

Category Cruiser Boats

1984 Hunter Legend 40 1984 Hunter Legend 40' Offered by Westchester Yacht Sales This hunter Legend 40' makes for a fun sailing as well as a comfortable cruising experience. Ergonomically designed both topside and below, it is easy to sail short handed and yet spacious enough for two or more couples to enjoy. Hunter's sparing use of exterior wood makes this an excellent selection for those who want to spend more time sailing than varnishing. The solid fiberglass hull does not have a weak cor,  and the engine and transmission were replaced in 2008 along with a maxi prop 3 blade adjustable pitch screw that was installed to increase efficiency. For more information or if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us. New Air Conditioner, Maxi propeller, 8 batteries and inverter

1984 Hunter Hunter 34

Norfolk, Virginia

Model Hunter 34

1984 Hunter Hunter 34 1984 34 Hunter. Well maintained with Yanmar diesel inboard. Bunks fore and aft. Very roomy, fully enclosed head with shower. Located on a navigable waterway, with no bridge access to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Asking 16,900 obo

Cape Coral, Florida

1984 Hunter 31

Miami, Florida

1984 Hunter 31  Hunter 31: truly a superior experience out on the water. Engineered for those long cruises or day hopping from island to island. She is the perfect vessel to learn, grow, and love being out there exploring the seas. Below deck you will find the amenities that are similar to larger vessels. This Hunter 31 has a complete, fully equipped galley, standard for-and-aft dinette, private head shower and vanity, large chart table, berths for six, air conditioning, as well as a large of storage space.  With a 34” wheel, the T-shaped cockpit provides ample seating and storage for all types of gear, lines, or tackle.  ‘Pioneer’ could easily fit a small family or even a small group of friends. A great find if you are looking to day-sail, have a weekend get-a-way or even live full-time in the wonderful Florida Keys.

1984 Hunter 34

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

1984 Hunter 34 Garmin chartplotter, radar, and depth sounder. All integrated to the plotter display. Raymarine autopilot coupled to the chartplotter. Roller furled main. 150 roller furled genoa. New head in 2015. Three anchors with chain and rode. Life jackets, spare hardware, and other items included in sale. Willing to include mooring sight, ball, and inflatable dinghy.

Waukegan, Illinois

1984 Hunter 34 .

1984 Hunter 25.5

Category Daysailer Sailboats

1984 Hunter 25.5 1984 Hunter 25.5 Sailboat with yard trailer.    2001 Honda Four Stroke outboard Still on the hard but was in the water last season.  Ready to hit the water! Email for more pictures.

Long Beach, California

1984 Hunter 34 The Hunter 34 is the most popular boat Hunter has ever produced. It has extra interior space, fully equipped galley, fore and aft facing the dinette, this boat also includes a chart table, a head with shower and berths for seven. It has ample storage and 6'3" headroom with private staterooms fore and aft.  call Perry at 818 398-9265.

Ketchum, Oklahoma

1984 Hunter 34, Grand Lake, OK. Good condition. Mainsail, roller furling jib, 135 genoa. Bimini. 3 year old bottom paint. Marine air. 2 new batteries. Yanmar diesel. $21300

1984 Hunter Hunter 34 1984 34 Hunter. Well maintained with Yanmar diesel inboard. Bunks fore and aft. Very roomy, fully enclosed head with shower. Located on a navigable waterway, with no bridge access to the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.

1984 Hunter 34/SL

Little River, South Carolina

Model 34/SL

1984 Hunter 34/SL Hunter's popular 34. If you are looking for a sailboat with some space, in good shape and on a budget, this is your boat. She was on Lake Norman 1984-1994, Smith Mountain Lake, VA 1994-2012, Little River 2012-present.   A few notable options: Sunbrella  Interior Cushions,  covered in 2014 from East Coast Umbrella, Laurel Hill, SC  New Bottom Paint, April, 2016 at Grand Harbor Marina Fresh water hoses replaced  2015 Napa Batteries (2) 2015 Garmin Chart Plotter VHF, AM/FM stereo-CD player, TV-DVD combo 155 Genoa, Roller Furling 110 Jib, Roller Furling Galley and head thru-hulls replaced 2012 Whisker pole Transmission rebuilt by Mac Boring, Wilmington, 2005

Rochester, New York

1984 Hunter 34, Great cruiser with in-boom roller furling for main and roller reef jib. Includes Dodger and Bimini with zip on side curtains. Custom cockpit cushions. Custom canvas cover.Fast boat with tall-rig option and fin keel. Yanmar 22hp, 2002 Schaeffer in boom furling, Fully Battened main, 145 Custom Multi-weight Roller Reef Jib, 2 Self-tailing Winches for Jib, 2 Manual tailing 2-speed winches for main/jib/boom, vang, 2003 Autohelm Auto Pilot, 2006 Dodger & Bimini, 12V Refrigeration, 2 Burner Origo Alcohol Stove, Guest Battery Charger, 3 Batteries (2 House), Bruce and Danforth anchors, Anchor line, ** Custom Cover **

1984 Hunter H34

San Diego, California

Category Sailboats

1984 Hunter H34 34' Hunter H34 '84 "Simplicity" Slip off to ocean adventures in this well cared for comfortable Hunter 34. Seller moved away and wants the boat sold. Great value for a good sailing boat. Makes a great-live aboard as well.

Benton, Kentucky

1984 Hunter 34 1984 34' Hunter, LOADED, Yanmar Diesel 3 cyl. engine, 20 HP, V Drive, Dry Weight 11,000 lbs., 2 staterooms with full beds, ice box, 2 burner alcohol stove/oven, New Uniden VHF Radio, Battery Charger, Compass, 20 Amp Shore Power, 25 gallon fuel tank, 65 gallon fresh water, 20 gallon holding tank, 10 gallon hot water heater, $14,000 upgrade in 2006 Seldon Roller Furling Mast System, Seldon Boom and Hardware, Pedestal Seats, 2 Sails Furling Genoa Furling Main, Cockpit Speakers, 2 Bilge Pumps, Draft 5.5 feet Beam 11.58, Auto Helm, Raymarine ST40 Bidata Instrument, Mast Height 51'6", Located on a navigable waterway, and price includes a new bottom job!! REDUCED!!

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1984 Hunter 20 good boat?

• Thread starter Ryan61065
• Start date Aug 24, 2022
• Hunter Owner Forums
• Smaller Boats

Found a 1984 Hunter 20 on criagslist last night guy wants 2k might go look at it. Its not in pristine condition but its ready to hit the water. Is this a good boat, i know they didnt make very many of them but as anyone had problems with them? Anything i should look for before i purchase?  

Crazy Dave Condon

Was it a kit build boat. Suggest a test sail. Suggest taking a fellow sailor with experience to go with you. Make sure title work is there. If not, walk away  

Hunter resources, by model

Hey appreciate the help i ended up buying the boat! So this might be good for me or bad lol Ryan  

Pics?  

shemandr said: Pics? Click to expand

Attachments

Oh, we've seen much worse. The trailer looks pretty good. At least from what I see of the boat, it needs a shakedown sail. Not a voyage but a test sail (Oops, That was Dave's Rx in the first place).  

shemandr said: Oh, we've seen much worse. The trailer looks pretty good. At least from what I see of the boat, it needs a shakedown sail. Not a voyage but a test sail (Oops, That was Dave's Rx in the first place). Click to expand

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