Hunter 38 Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 38 commenced production in 2004, emerging from Hunter Marine's long-standing tradition of accessible and innovative sailboat manufacturing. At the time, Hunter Marine, under the leadership of Warren Luhrs, was well-regarded for applying production line efficiencies, honed from their powerboat origins, to sailboat construction. Designer Glenn Henderson articulated a clear goal for the Hunter 38: to create a vessel that was not only an "exceptionally comfortable cruiser" but also offered "outstanding performance." This philosophy is evident in its design, featuring a fine entry and a near-plumb bow, elements often seen on more performance-oriented yachts.

Consistent with Hunter's broader design ethos, the 38 incorporated signature features that enhanced both performance and liveability. These included the distinctive B&R rig, which uses swept-back spreaders to eliminate the need for a backstay, allowing for larger mainsails and simpler sail handling. The boat also features a sturdy stainless steel arch over the cockpit, a common Hunter hallmark, which serves as a robust mounting point for the mainsheet traveler and provides structural integrity and a convenient platform for a bimini. The Hunter 38 was offered with variations, including a shoal draft option (5' compared to the standard 6.5' max draft), which also influenced displacement and ballast configurations. Additionally, different furling mainsail options were available, impacting the total sail area.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 38 strikes a notable balance between cruising comfort and spirited performance. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 22.8, the Hunter 38 is poised to perform well even in lighter air conditions, suggesting a boat that responds eagerly to gentle breezes. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.33, indicates moderate stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling, contributing to a comfortable motion underway. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 196 classifies the Hunter 38 as a moderate cruiser, leaning towards the lighter, more performance-oriented end of the cruising spectrum for a boat of its size.

Anecdotal reports support these figures, with the Hunter 38 demonstrating good speeds; some tests recorded 5 to 5.5 knots in just 5 knots of breeze, increasing to 7.5 knots in 10 knots of breeze when reaching. The cockpit is described as user-friendly, enhancing the sailing experience. While generally praised for its performance, some owners note that when reaching or broadreaching, the main sail can become impinged by the spreaders if let out too far, which is a consideration for optimal sail trim on those points of sail.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 38 is designed to maximize living space and comfort, reflecting Hunter's emphasis on creating appealing family cruisers. With a generous maximum headroom of 6.5 feet, the cabin feels open and inviting. The model was offered in both two-cabin and three-cabin configurations, providing flexibility for various owner needs.

Typical layouts feature a spacious salon with a converting table, capable of sleeping up to eight people when combined with berths in the cabins. Hunter designed the interior to pack a lot of amenity into the available volume. While specific finish materials can vary, Hunter's reputation for robust construction often meant practical and durable finishes. Many Hunter 38s are equipped with air conditioning and heating systems, though some earlier models might feature dockside heating only. Owners have noted the potential for updating the original interior upholstery to personalize the aesthetic. The overall design prioritizes comfort and functionality for extended stays aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 38 generally express positive sentiments about their vessels, often highlighting the boat's excellent value and comprehensive features. A frequently praised aspect is the robust cockpit arch, which owners find beneficial for keeping the cockpit clear of lines due to the mainsheet traveler's elevated position, and for providing sturdy support for a bimini. The quality of the boat's systems is also often cited as a strength, with recommendations for the electric winch to assist with sail handling. The Hunter 38 is commonly regarded as a great boat for its price point.

However, like many boats, the Hunter 38 is not without its common considerations. Some owners have reported recurring issues with water leaks, which may require attention to deck fittings and seals over time. As previously noted, the design of the B&R rig means that when sailing on a broad reach, the main sail's sheeting angle can be limited by the swept-back spreaders, preventing it from being let out as far as might be desired. Despite these points, the Hunter 38 enjoys a strong owner community, reflecting its enduring appeal as a comfortable and capable cruising sailboat.