Hunter 310 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 310's production commenced in 1997, marking its place within Hunter Marine's lineage of comfortable cruising designs. Hunter Marine, founded by Warren Luhrs, transitioned its focus in the early 1980s from purely racing vessels to more accommodating cruisers, a philosophy clearly evident in the 310. The company's manufacturing ethos emphasized applying production line efficiencies, honed from Luhrs' background in powerboat building, to the sailboat industry. Signature innovations derived from Warren Luhrs' personal ocean racing endeavors, such as the distinctive Bergstrom & Ridder (B&R) rig and integrated arches, became hallmarks of Hunter yachts and are prominent features on the 310. The B&R rig, characterized by swept-back spreaders and the absence of a backstay, allows for a larger mainsail area and contributes to easier sail handling. A practical shoal draft version, reducing the draft to 4 feet, was also made available, enhancing the boat's accessibility to shallower waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 310 is designed for a balanced sailing experience, blending comfortable cruising with respectable performance. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.58 indicates a boat capable of performing well in lighter air while retaining sufficient sail power for varying conditions. This suggests a responsive vessel, though some owners note it benefits from early reefing, particularly with a furling main, to maintain optimal control in stronger winds. With a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.35, the 310 offers a moderate degree of stability, providing a comfortable motion in a seaway without being overly stiff. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, at approximately 172.86, places the Hunter 310 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category for its length, contributing to its "impressive sailing capabilities."

A key aspect of the 310's design for ease of handling is its standard furling systems, including a jib furler and in-mast furler, which are highly praised by owners for facilitating short-handed sailing, especially in heavier winds. Its hull form, combined with the B&R rig and a spade rudder, contributes to a balanced helm and predictable behavior across different sea states, making it a versatile choice for various sailing scenarios, from coastal cruising to more active sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The Hunter 310 is widely recognized for its "spacious interior" and "incredible layout," which were central to its design as an innovative family cruiser. While specific headroom can vary, the interior is thoughtfully arranged to maximize living space below deck. The typical layout includes a comfortable V-berth forward, a functional head compartment, a well-appointed salon with seating and a dining area, and a galley designed for practical use while cruising. Aft, quarter berths or a private aft cabin provide additional sleeping accommodations. The focus on a wide beam and generous interior volume ensures ample storage throughout the boat, crucial for extended cruising. Owners often highlight the overall finish quality and the effective use of materials that contribute to a bright and inviting living environment, suitable for both short weekend trips and longer voyages. Ventilation is typically good, allowing for comfortable living in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 310 generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, with many indicating they would enthusiastically choose the boat again. The boat's ease of handling, particularly for short-handed sailing, is frequently lauded, attributed to its efficient furling systems. The Hunter 310 is appreciated for balancing comfort and performance, proving itself a versatile family cruiser. While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted "niggling problems" with original equipment, such as issues with the stock boom vang, often replaced with a more robust alternative. Additionally, some find the lazy jacks, particularly with a full-batten main, can occasionally snag during sail handling. Despite these minor points, the overarching sentiment among owners is positive, highlighting the Hunter 310's solid construction, comfortable motion, and overall value as a capable cruising sailboat.