Hunter 42 Passage CC Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 42 Passage CC was born during a period when Hunter Marine was shifting its focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising designs, a move that began in the early 1980s. Designed by the Hunter Design Team, production of the 42.5-foot monohull commenced in 1989 and continued until 1997. Warren Luhrs, drawing on his extensive experience in powerboat manufacturing, applied principles of production line efficiency to sailboat building, aiming to make sailing more enjoyable and accessible. His adventurous spirit, exemplified by record-breaking single-handed ocean races, also influenced the integration of innovative features into Hunter's production models. During this era, Hunter Marine cultivated a design philosophy that prioritized spacious interiors, robust construction, and features that enhanced the overall sailing experience, rather than focusing solely on high-performance racing. The "Passage" designation itself was given to Hunter's center cockpit designs, distinguishing these models for their cruising-oriented layouts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 42 Passage CC, with a length overall of 42.5 feet and a waterline of 38.0 feet, is characterized by a design optimized for comfortable cruising rather than outright speed. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.13 indicates a vessel with reasonable light-air performance, allowing her to move well in varied conditions, yet without the extreme characteristics of a dedicated racer. With a ballast to displacement ratio of around 32.1% and a wing keel, she offers a degree of stability, though some might find her a bit more tender than heavily ballasted designs. However, the wing keel configuration contributes to improved lift and reduced draft, which can be advantageous for cruising in shallower waters. The displacement to length ratio, which calculates to a high 437.3, firmly places the Hunter 42 Passage CC in the heavy displacement category. This heavy build contributes to a comfortable and steady motion in a seaway, making her well-suited for extended passages.

Equipped with a B&R fractional sloop rig, a signature feature of many Hunter yachts, the 42 Passage CC benefits from swept-back spreaders and no backstay, which allows for a larger mainsail and often simplifies sail handling. This rig design, coupled with her overall dimensions, contributes to a balanced feel at the helm, enhancing the cruising experience.

Accommodations and Layout

One of the most notable features of the Hunter 42 Passage CC is its expansive interior, made possible by its generous beam of 14.0 feet and center cockpit design. The interior boasts an impressive maximum headroom of 6.5 feet, creating an open and airy living space below deck. Owners frequently praise the "saloon you could yoga in," highlighting the sheer volume of the main living area.

The typical layout includes spacious sleeping quarters for four, primarily featuring comfortable fore and aft staterooms. The aft cabin often boasts a centerline queen berth, a highly desirable feature for cruisers, providing excellent privacy and comfort. The main saloon typically features a large oval settee, complemented by a U-shaped galley located on the starboard side. This galley is often equipped with ample counter space and, in its original configuration, "state-of-the-art refrigeration." Storage is generally abundant throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of liveaboards or those undertaking extended voyages. The overall finish quality often incorporates wood trim and thoughtful material choices, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 42 Passage CC generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently praising its suitability for their cruising needs. Many owners are "very happy" with their boats, noting that the model met their expectations for size and features. The boat has "proven itself a well-made boat over the past three decades," and owners consistently value its solid construction and comfortable motion in challenging sea states. The generous and well-thought-out interior layout, especially the spacious aft cabin with a centerline queen and the expansive saloon, is a recurring highlight, often cited as a primary reason for purchase.

However, some common issues and maintenance points have been noted by owners over the years. Reports of "leaky chain lockers, minor electrical problems, and difficulties with some of the appliances" have surfaced, though these are often considered minor and typical for boats of this age. More significant, though less frequent, concerns include "reports of broken tabbing, moving bulkheads, and hull flexing," as well as isolated incidents of the hull "oilcanning on a passage." While these are often attributed to general Hunter characteristics of that era rather than specific design flaws of the 42 Passage CC, potential owners are advised to conduct thorough surveys to assess the structural integrity and condition of these areas.