Hunter 18.5 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 18.5 was introduced in 1987, continuing in production until 1993. During this era, Hunter Marine, under the leadership of Warren Luhrs, was evolving its design focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising designs. The company prioritized production line efficiencies, aiming to make sailing more accessible. The Hunter Design Team, responsible for the 18.5, focused on creating boats with spacious interiors, robust construction, and innovative features that enhanced the sailing experience 1, 2, 14, Builder Article. While the Hunter 18.5 did not see significant variations such as "MkI" or "MkII" designations during its production run, its consistent design aimed to offer a reliable and enjoyable small cruising platform.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 18.5 is characterized by a fractional sloop rig and a wing keel, contributing to its stable and forgiving nature. With a hull speed of 5.28 knots, it is well-suited for a relaxed sailing experience. Owners frequently describe the Hunter 18.5 as very forgiving, making it an excellent choice for less experienced skippers, yet still capable of delivering a fun and engaging sail when properly trimmed. Its relatively generous sail area to displacement ratio allows it to perform well in light wind conditions, a notable advantage for lake and coastal sailing where lighter breezes are common. The boat is often sailed on lakes and is primarily used for day sailing, handling well in normal wind strengths of 10-15 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of 18.42 feet, the Hunter 18.5 is praised by owners for offering considerable room in both its cockpit and cabin for a boat of its size. The interior layout typically includes sleeping accommodations for up to three, often configured with a V-berth forward and a settee that can serve as an additional berth. It is also equipped with a basic galley area. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, Hunter's general design philosophy emphasized maximizing interior volume and comfort, even in smaller models. This means that for its class, the 18.5 aims to provide functional living space, making it suitable for overnight stays or extended day trips.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 18.5 often commend its solid sailing characteristics, particularly its ability to perform well in light air and its forgiving nature, which instills confidence in newer sailors. The ample space within the cockpit and cabin for an 18.5-foot boat is a frequently highlighted strength. Many appreciate its suitability for lake and day sailing, noting its ease of handling and trailering.

However, some common issues or areas for attention have been noted. Damage related to poor trailer loading has been reported by owners, suggesting the importance of proper trailering techniques and equipment. Another owner mentioned adding an extra cockpit drain to prevent leaves from blocking the original strainer, indicating a minor design quirk that some address. While specific structural weaknesses are not widely reported as systemic issues, isolated incidents such as a broken base have been mentioned in forums. Overall, the consensus among owners points to the Hunter 18.5 as a robust and enjoyable small cruiser that delivers good value for its size and purpose.