Hunter Horizon 273 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter Horizon 273 emerged during a pivotal period for Hunter Boats Ltd., as the builder transitioned its focus from performance-oriented cruiser-racers to more comfortable and practical cruising yachts, beginning in 1984 with the Horizon 26. David Thomas, who became Hunter's primary designer in 1975, was instrumental in this strategic shift, emphasizing designs that offered enhanced stability and long waterlines. The Horizon 273, following the successful Horizon 27 and 272, embodied this philosophy, aiming to provide a solid and quick cruiser experience., 1]

Built with a fiberglass solid hull and deck, the Horizon 273 was designed for durability. While the twin keel version was prominent, Hunter also offered fixed fin keel and drop keel versions, providing options for different sailing preferences and cruising grounds. Notably, some Horizon 273s were available as "sailaway kits," where the factory completed all structural work, leaving the interior finishing to the first owners, which speaks to Hunter's flexible approach to production. Minor differences exist between the Horizon 272 and 273, with the latter often featuring a sugar scoop transom and subtle interior color changes.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter Horizon 273 is known for its balanced sailing performance, reflecting its design as a capable cruiser rather than an outright racer. With a reported sail area of 290 sq ft and a displacement of 4880 lbs, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.2 suggests a moderate performer, capable of good progress in various wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light airs. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, standing at around 39.75%, indicates a good degree of initial stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Her Displacement to Length ratio of about 221.7 further categorizes her as a moderate cruiser, contributing to a comfortable ride even in choppier conditions.

Owners frequently praise the Horizon 273 as an "easy and pleasure to sail craft" and acknowledge its "seakeeping qualities." The fractional sloop rig, often paired with a self-tacking jib, simplifies sail handling, making the boat manageable for single-handed or short-crewed sailing. Its handling characteristics are generally consistent across the 272 and 273 models, providing a dependable and enjoyable experience for coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 27 feet, the Hunter Horizon 273 is lauded for its surprisingly spacious interior. The design prioritizes comfortable accommodation, typically featuring an "open plan" layout that creates a much larger feel below deck. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aimed to maximize usable volume within the hull.

The standard layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a main saloon area, and often a double aft quarter cabin, offering comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to six people. Details regarding the galley and head arrangement, while not specified in the initial data, would typically include a compact galley area with a stove and sink, and an enclosed marine head, suitable for coastal cruising. Hunter's focus on practical and well-built vessels suggests a functional, if not luxurious, finish quality, with materials chosen for durability and ease of maintenance. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common for boats of this era.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter Horizon 273 consistently express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently describing them as "very happy" with their choice. The boat is often celebrated for its "solid construction" and being a "true 'sailors' boat," highlighting its robust build and dependable performance. Its ease of handling and comfortable motion in a seaway are commonly cited strengths, reinforcing its suitability for cruising.

While the Horizon 273 is generally well-regarded, prospective owners of boats from this era should be aware of potential issues common to fiberglass yachts of the period, such as osmosis. Some owners have noted instances of osmosis in Hunter hulls, suggesting that a thorough pre-purchase survey is advisable. Despite this, the active owner communities and continued appreciation for the model underscore its enduring appeal as a reliable and enjoyable cruising sailboat.