Hunter 701 (Lee) Information, Review, Specs

Measuring 23 feet in length overall with a beam of just over 7.4 feet, the Hunter 701 provided an accessible entry into sailing without compromising on the fundamental qualities of a well-designed yacht. Its design facilitated ease of handling, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and rewarding experience on the water.

History and Design

The story of the Hunter 701 begins in the early 1970s, specifically with its production run from 1971 to 1975. Hunter Boats Ltd., under its official rebranding and relocation to a new custom-built factory in Rochford, continued its fruitful collaboration with Oliver Lee during this period. Lee, who had already penned Hunter's inaugural and iconic National Squib, designed several other significant vessels for the builder, with the Hunter 701 being one of them., 5] A total of 82 units of the Hunter 701 were built, reflecting its solid popularity during its production years.

A notable aspect of the Hunter 701's design was its availability with different keel configurations. While typically featuring a fin keel, the model was also offered with a lifting keel option. This versatility would have appealed to sailors needing to access shallower waters or seeking easier trailering and storage. The design ethos of Oliver Lee, as evidenced in the 701 and other boats of the era, focused on creating vessels that were not only efficient under sail but also robust and dependable, capable of maintaining progress even in challenging conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact dimensions, the Hunter 701 is consistently described by owners and reviewers as a lively and competent performer on the water. It boasts a solid displacement, contributing to its stable motion, a quality often praised by those who have sailed it. Sailors often commend the 701 for being "quick and very seaworthy," capable of holding its own when other smaller vessels might struggle. Its masthead sloop rig, combined with a fin keel (or lifting keel option), allows it to point well and deliver an engaging sailing experience. Owners have expressed satisfaction with its handling characteristics, noting that it can be sailed effectively even in adverse conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 701, typical of boats of its size and era, is designed to maximize utility within a compact footprint. While detailed specifications on headroom are not always readily available, the layout is generally functional for weekend cruising or short-term coastal adventures. Owners seeking information about the Hunter 701's interior often refer to reviews or forums, indicating that the original configuration typically includes basic amenities for overnight stays. The interior would traditionally feature a V-berth forward, a small salon area, and potentially a compact galley and head. Finish quality would likely have emphasized practicality and durability, with a combination of fiberglass and wood trim, characteristic of British builders like Hunter Boats Ltd.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 701 frequently praise its robust construction and dependable sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its seaworthiness, noting its ability to handle varied sea states with confidence. There is a sentiment among some owners that the Hunter 701 shares many positive attributes with the Anderson 22, to the extent that some 701 owners have joined the Anderson 22 Owners Association for community and support, given the limited dedicated resources for the Hunter 701.

Common observations relate to the typical maintenance needs of a boat of its age, such as requiring "a bit of TLC." However, the core design and build quality are generally regarded as sound. The 701 is seen as a manageable boat, capable of being sailed efficiently even in situations where engine assistance might be unavailable, demonstrating its inherent balance and sailing prowess. The enduring appeal of the Hunter 701 lies in its straightforward design, solid build, and its ability to provide an enjoyable and reliable sailing platform for those seeking a smaller, yet capable, cruising yacht.