Hunter 23.5 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 23.5 was introduced in 1992, continuing in production until 1997. During this era, Hunter Marine, under the leadership of Warren Luhrs, was known for its innovative approach, often incorporating advancements directly influenced by Luhrs' demanding single-handed ocean races into their production models. The water-ballast system, a hallmark feature of the 23.5, exemplifies this philosophy, offering a balance of stability when sailing and light displacement for easy trailering. The Hunter Design Team aimed for a modern aesthetic with a relatively full hull and raised freeboard, which contributed to maximizing interior space despite the boat's modest dimensions. The design reflected Hunter's broader ethos of balancing performance with comfort and ease of handling, appealing to a wide spectrum of sailors by making the sport more accessible.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Equipped with a fractional sloop rig and a total calculated sail area of approximately 236 square feet, the Hunter 23.5 is generally regarded as a spirited performer in light winds. Its hull is designed to achieve a theoretical hull speed of 6.2 knots. The innovative water-ballast system (1,000 lbs of water ballast) provides stability when deployed, and can be drained for lighter weight when trailering. This makes the boat well-suited for varied conditions, from calm inland lakes to coastal waters.

Anecdotal owner reports suggest that while the boat handles well for its size, some find it "a bit tender," meaning it can heel readily in stronger breezes. Owners have described it as a pleasure to learn on, appreciating its responsiveness. However, some have noted that it can be slower on downwind runs. The centerboard, while crucial for variable draft (1.5 ft minimum to 5.5 ft maximum), has been mentioned by owners as having a tendency to slap when the boat is anchored in a roll. The rudder system has also received mixed reviews, with some finding it overly large and heavy, potentially contributing to stern issues, and others citing problems with the raising mechanism.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its trailerable size, the Hunter 23.5 aims to provide comfortable accommodations for weekend cruising. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in all specifications, the design's raised freeboard suggests an effort to maximize vertical space within the cabin. The interior typically features a V-berth forward, a small galley area, a compact head (often a porta-potti), and a salon area with settees that can serve as additional berths.

Interior finishes usually comprise a combination of fiberglass liners with some wood trim, in line with the contemporary design trends of its production era. Storage is functional, if not expansive, with various lockers and cubbies throughout the cabin. Ventilation is provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common for boats of this class. A small 5-gallon water capacity unit is integrated for basic needs.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 23.5 often praise its suitability as a first sailboat, highlighting its reasonable price point and relatively sturdy fittings. The boat's trailerability and water ballast system are frequently cited as major advantages, providing flexibility for exploring different cruising grounds and reducing storage costs.

However, a few recurring themes emerge regarding potential issues. Beyond the aforementioned centerboard slap and rudder system critiques, some owners have noted that the jib can easily get snagged on the forward cleat. While the outboard motor power is convenient for a boat of this size, owners report common challenges associated with outboards in general, such as noise and maintenance. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Hunter 23.5 generally maintains a positive reputation among its community for offering an accessible and enjoyable sailing experience.