Hunter 35 Legend WK Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hunter 35 Legend WK debuted in 1986, marking a period when Hunter Marine, under the visionary leadership of Warren Luhrs, was actively shifting its design focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising vessels. The boat was designed by an in-house group of designers at Hunter, reflecting the company's commitment to continuous evolution and innovation. Hunter Marine, which began applying production line efficiencies learned from powerboat manufacturing to sailboats in 1973, emphasized robust construction and innovative features to enhance the sailing experience.

The 35 Legend WK featured a wing keel, distinguishing it with a maximum draft of 4.5 feet, suitable for accessing shallower anchorages. The model served as a transition to the Hunter 35.5 Legend, introduced shortly after, which incorporated minor modifications to the deck layout and interior accommodations. This iterative design process allowed Hunter to refine their offerings based on market feedback and ongoing development.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 35 Legend WK is characterized by a moderate displacement hull and a fractional sloop rig, contributing to a balanced sailing profile. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.83, the boat exhibits good light-air performance for its size, a characteristic that often surprised reviewers. This ratio suggests that the 35 Legend WK is responsive in lighter breezes, making it enjoyable for coastal cruising where wind conditions can vary.

The boat's ballast to displacement ratio stands at roughly 39.02%. While a respectable figure, some owners have noted that the boat can feel "a little lightly ballasted," suggesting that early reefing is advisable in stronger winds to maintain comfort and control. This observation is consistent with its design as a comfortable cruiser rather than a high-performance racer. Its displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 208.38 further classifies it as a moderate displacement vessel, striking a balance between swiftness and a comfortable motion through the water. While generally praised for its handling, some have pointed out a "lack of sail controls" that might be desired for more aggressive performance sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 35 Legend WK was designed with comfort and livability in mind, consistent with the Legend series' reputation for spacious accommodations and user-friendly layouts. The general layout typically features a V-berth cabin forward, providing a private sleeping area. Aft of the V-berth, the main salon often includes a portside dinette and a starboard settee, creating ample seating for dining and lounging. These areas are complemented by a functional galley and a head compartment, essential for cruising convenience.

Owner feedback frequently highlights the "very nice interior" of the Hunter Legend 35, contributing to its appeal as a liveaboard or extended cruiser. While specific details on materials and finish quality require individual inspection of each boat due to age and potential modifications, the Legend series generally incorporated wood trim and other features designed to enhance the interior's warmth and aesthetic. Storage options are typically integrated throughout the cabins, accommodating gear for extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 35 Legend WK frequently praise its solid construction and overall value, often considering it "one of the better built boats made by Hunter". Many express pleasant surprise with their Legend 35.5, with some asserting that the Legend series represents "Hunter's overall best line of boats". The boat is often commended for its comfortable motion in a seaway, making it suitable for a wide range of cruising grounds.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Hunter 35 Legend WK has a few commonly noted areas requiring attention. Osmotic blistering below the waterline has been observed in some models. Additionally, "wet and delaminated decks" are a recurring issue, particularly on the side where furling lines were originally run, indicating a need for careful inspection and potential re-bedding of fittings. The removable deck area covering the steering cables is also "notorious for leaking and getting water into" the bilge, a common maintenance concern. Despite these potential issues, the strong owner community and the enduring appeal of Hunter-designed yachts testify to the Hunter 35 Legend WK's legacy as a reliable and enjoyable cruising sailboat.