Hunter 19-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 19-2 emerged from Hunter Marine's production line between 1993 and 1996. Designed by the in-house Hunter Design Team, this model exemplifies the builder's commitment during that era to balancing performance with comfort and user-friendliness. Hunter Marine, founded by Warren Luhrs, was known for applying efficient production methods, originally honed in powerboat manufacturing, to create robust and innovative sailboats. The 19-2 is distinct from other "Hunter 19" models, such as the earlier Hunter 19-1 or the European Hunter 19 designed by Oliver Lee.

A notable design feature of the Hunter 19-2 is its water-ballast system, which was a signature innovation for Hunter Marine, influenced by Warren Luhrs' personal ocean racing endeavors. This system allows the boat to be lighter for trailering and launching, with a displacement of approximately 1,500 lbs, while achieving a sailing displacement of 2,000 lbs when the 500 lbs of water ballast are added. This contributes to its trailerable nature and shallow draft capabilities. The boat features a fiberglass solid hull and deck construction, typical of Hunter's durable build quality. Its keel/centerboard configuration further enhances its versatility, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.17 feet for shallow water access and beaching, and a maximum draft of 4.67 feet for improved sailing performance with the board deployed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 19-2 is characterized by its lively sailing performance and straightforward handling. With a length overall of 19 feet and a fractional sloop rig, she boasts a total sail area of approximately 167 square feet. Her design as a keel/centerboard boat with water ballast allows for flexibility in various sailing conditions. The ability to reduce draft to just over a foot makes her ideal for exploring shallow coves and allows for easy trailering and launching. When sailing, the centerboard can be lowered to provide better upwind performance and stability.

Owners frequently praise the Hunter 19-2 for being simple to rig, easy, and fun to sail. Despite its compact size, the boat has demonstrated admirable performance in various weather conditions. With a hull speed of 5.35 knots, she offers respectable speed for a boat of her class. Motoring characteristics are also generally regarded as good, with a small outboard engine like a Honda 5 hp providing sufficient power without excessive vibration. The mast can be easily raised by a single person, further enhancing its appeal as a trailerable sailboat that can be quickly prepared for the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a day sailer and small cruiser, the Hunter 19-2 offers a functional, rather than luxurious, interior. While specific headroom figures are not available, owners describe the interior as "plain jane," indicating a basic and uncluttered layout. For a 19-foot vessel, accommodations are designed to be efficient, typically featuring a V-berth forward for sleeping and possibly two quarter berths aft.

The interior focuses on providing essential comfort for short trips. Storage is likely modest, suitable for weekend gear rather than extended cruising provisions. Ventilation would depend on standard hatches and ports. The boat is equipped with a small 3-gallon water capacity, which underscores its design for shorter excursions. While not designed for extensive liveaboard comfort, the cabin provides a sheltered space to relax and store gear, making it a capable platform for coastal adventures.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Hunter 19-2 in high regard, particularly appreciating its simplicity and ease of use. Many consistently highlight its straightforward rigging process, making it an excellent choice for those new to sailing or looking for a hassle-free experience. Its "fun to sail" characteristic is a frequently mentioned strength, along with its ability to perform admirably across various weather conditions, suggesting a robust and seaworthy build for its size. The trailerable nature, facilitated by the water ballast system and easily raised mast, is also a significant advantage, offering flexibility in choosing sailing locations.

While primarily praised for its sailing qualities and ease of handling, the "plain jane interior" is occasionally noted, suggesting that those seeking extensive amenities or luxurious finishes might find the accommodations basic. Some owners have reported minor issues, such as those related to the original trailer or general marine systems (e.g., engine coolant leaks, electrical issues), but these are often specific to individual boats and their age rather than inherent design flaws of the 19-2 itself. Overall, the Hunter 19-2 is well-received as a solid, dependable, and enjoyable small sailboat.