Hunter 240 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 240 was introduced in 1997, part of a lineage of Hunter sailboats that prioritized user-friendliness and family cruising, with production continuing until 2005. Designed by the in-house Hunter Design Team, this model reflects Hunter Marine's broader manufacturing ethos during that era: applying efficient production line methods, honed from their powerboat background, to create sailboats that balanced performance with comfort and ease of handling. The boat’s design was fundamentally shaped by the inclusion of a water ballast system, a technology directly influenced by company founder Warren Luhrs' own offshore racing experiments. This system allowed the boat to be easily trailered and launched, appealing to sailors who didn't want the commitment of a permanent slip or sought to explore different cruising grounds. While no significant variations like MkI or MkII were widely noted during its production run, the core design remained consistent with its trailerable cruising purpose.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 240 is characterized by its fractional sloop rig and a wide beam, contributing to its stable platform. Its sail area to displacement ratio, around 15.8, suggests a moderate performer. While not a dedicated light-air racer, owners have noted its good light weather performance, making it enjoyable in typical lake and coastal conditions. The boat's displacement of 3,600 pounds, when the water ballast tank is full, results in a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 334. This places it on the heavier side for its length, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway typical of a more substantial cruiser.

A crucial aspect of the Hunter 240's design is its 1,300-pound water ballast system, which allows the boat's displacement to be significantly reduced to 2,300 pounds for trailering. When ballasted with water, the ballast-to-displacement ratio is around 0.36. While this is below what might indicate extreme stiffness in a fixed-keel boat, the water ballast provides the necessary stability for sailing, and owners frequently praise its effectiveness for towing and launching. The fractional rig, with its swept-back spreaders, simplifies sail handling and makes tacking easier for cruisers. However, some owners report that this configuration can limit deep downwind performance. Overall, the 240 is described as sailing well on most points of sail, offering a balanced and manageable experience for its target audience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its relatively compact size, the Hunter 240 was designed with interior volume and functionality in mind, appealing to families and weekend cruisers. The interior layout typically features a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping area. A small head compartment, often equipped with a porta-potty, is usually located. The main cabin commonly includes a convertible dinette or settee arrangement that can provide additional sleeping berths. While precise maximum headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, anecdotal information from owners of similar Hunter models suggests that the 240 likely does not offer full standing headroom throughout the cabin, typical for a boat of this length.

The compact galley area would typically include a sink and space for a portable stove or cooler, suitable for light meal preparation during weekend trips. Storage is generally found beneath berths and settees, making the most of the available space. Given Hunter's reputation for comfortable family cruisers, the finish quality would lean towards practical and durable fiberglass surfaces, often complemented by wood trim to enhance the interior aesthetic. Ventilation is typically provided by an overhead hatch and opening portlights, crucial for comfort during warmer weather.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 240 frequently highlight its strengths, particularly its innovative design features. The most consistently praised aspects are the simple rig and the "brilliant" mast-raising system, which significantly simplifies setup and takedown for trailering. The water ballast system is also highly regarded as a key advantage for towing and making the boat truly trailerable. Many appreciate the generous space provided for a family, making it a comfortable platform for weekend adventures and day sailing on lakes and protected waters. The boat is generally seen as sailing "extremely well" on most points of sail, contributing to an enjoyable sailing experience.

However, some common minor issues and design considerations are noted by owners. The swept-back spreaders, while simplifying the rig, can impede deep downwind sailing. Additionally, some owners have reported that the original stanchions for the lifelines can be weak or problematic, sometimes requiring maintenance or reinforcement. Despite these minor points, the overarching sentiment among owners is positive, recognizing the Hunter 240 as a well-conceived and highly functional sailboat for its intended purpose.