Hunter 30-2 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 30-2 emerged from Hunter Marine's Alachua, Florida, facility between 1988 and 1992. This period saw Hunter Marine, founded by Warren Luhrs, solidify its reputation for applying efficient production methods, honed in powerboat manufacturing, to the sailboat industry. The company's design philosophy emphasized balancing performance with comfort and ease of handling, prioritizing spacious interiors and robust construction. While the original Hunter 30 was designed by John Cherubini, the 30-2 iteration reflected the continuous evolution by the Hunter Design Team, aiming to refine and enhance the cruising experience.

The 30-2's design incorporated a wing keel, a feature known for offering good windward performance while maintaining a relatively shallow draft. The use of a fractional sloop rig was also characteristic of Hunter's approach, providing a sail plan that was both efficient and easier for shorthanded crews to manage. While the search did not indicate significant MkI/MkII variations specifically for the 30-2, the model itself served to differentiate from its earlier Hunter 30 predecessors.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 30-2, with a displacement of 10,500 lbs and a waterline length of 25.83 feet, falls into the category of a moderately heavy cruiser, evidenced by its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 272.0. This suggests a boat that offers a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than being a light, purely performance-oriented vessel. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 14.44 indicates moderate light-air performance, meaning it will require a bit more breeze to get moving compared to lighter, more aggressively rigged designs.

With a ballast of 3,800 lbs, the Hunter 30-2 has a Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.362. This ratio points to a boat with decent stability, capable of standing up to a reasonable amount of wind without excessive heeling, although it may not be as stiff as yachts with higher ballast ratios. Owners have generally praised the Hunter 30-2 for its "good sailing characteristics" and a "great sense of balance and proportion". The fractional rig allows for flexible sail trim and makes for a more easily managed sail plan, contributing to its ease of handling for coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 30-2 prioritizes comfort and spaciousness, a hallmark of Hunter Marine's design philosophy. The wide cabinhouse, a deliberate design choice, significantly contributes to the boat's generous interior volume, though it results in narrower side decks on deck. A standout feature frequently lauded by owners is the "roomy aft cabin," which is often hard to equal in comparable yachts of its era.

The typical interior layout features a functional "interior kitchen with stove, sink, and wooden cabinetry," indicating a focus on practical cruising amenities. While specific headroom figures are not available, Hunter's emphasis on comfortable family cruisers suggests a design that aims for adequate standing room where possible. The overall finish quality generally reflects the era's use of fiberglass construction complemented by wood trim, aiming for a pleasant and durable cruising environment with sufficient storage for extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 30-2 consistently appreciate its strong points, particularly the "roomy aft cabin" and overall "good sailing characteristics". The boat's attractive interior is also frequently highlighted, offering considerable value for its price point. Many owners are drawn to Hunter's reputation for producing solid, user-friendly cruising yachts.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Hunter 30-2 can present common maintenance considerations. Owners have noted that, as boats age, some may develop moisture issues, and general equipment upgrades are often necessary. A recurring concern reported on forums pertains to potential issues with the compression post, which, if unaddressed, could lead to mast and rig problems. Additionally, the design's prioritization of interior space, while beneficial for comfort, results in relatively "narrow sidedecks" that some owners find less convenient for movement on deck. Original deck fittings on older models may also eventually require re-bedding to prevent leaks.