Hunter 50 AC Information, Review, Specs

The Hunter 50 AC began its production run in 2010, replacing a 49-foot model in Hunter Marine's product line and serving as the company's flagship offering. Designed by naval architect Glenn Henderson and the Hunter Design Team, the 50 AC was a testament to Hunter Marine's continuous evolution in sailboat manufacturing. Hunter Marine, under the guidance of Warren Luhrs, consistently emphasized efficiency and user-friendliness in their designs, an ethos that heavily influenced the 50 AC. This approach aimed to produce boats that were not only robust but also comfortable and easy to manage for a wide range of sailors, distinguishing them as producers of comfortable family cruisers and luxury bluewater yachts rather than purely high-performance racers.

The hull construction of the Hunter 50 AC features balsa sandwich topsides for weight reduction and insulation, coupled with solid fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) below the waterline for strength and impact resistance. A notable design element is the "AC" designation, standing for "Aft Cockpit," which differentiates it from other potential configurations and suggests a design departure from more tiered, mid-cockpit vessels of the era. Following the acquisition of Hunter Marine by David E. Marlow in August 2012, the model continued its legacy under the Marlow-Hunter brand, maintaining its reputation for quality and innovation.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter 50 AC, with its length overall just under 50 feet and a waterline length of nearly 44 feet, is designed for serious cruising with a focus on ease of handling. It features a deep-vee hull shape and a spade rudder, contributing to its performance characteristics. The boat's sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.33 suggests a vessel capable of good performance in lighter air while maintaining a comfortable motion, making it a capable cruiser for various wind conditions.

Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) is around 30.9% based on the standard ballast. While some reported figures indicate a slightly higher ballast ratio for certain configurations, the design typically aims to provide adequate stability for comfortable cruising. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 156.03 places the 50 AC in the category of a moderately light to performance-oriented cruiser, rather than a heavy displacement offshore tank. This balance allows for respectable speeds without sacrificing comfort or stability in a seaway.

The 50 AC often features Hunter's signature B&R rig, known for its swept-back spreaders and lack of a backstay, which allows for larger mainsails and simplifies sail handling. Owners and reviewers frequently praise the deck and cockpit layout for its user-friendliness, noting its generous space that can comfortably accommodate a dozen people. The mast and rig are described as extremely stiff, reminiscent of catamaran rigs, which further contributes to a versatile and manageable sailplan.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hunter 50 AC is a significant draw, designed with exceptional liveaboard qualities and spaciousness in mind. It typically boasts a tri-cabin layout, providing ample room for families or guests. The salon and galley are particularly expansive, creating an ideal space for entertaining. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently listed, the overall design emphasizes a comfortable and open feel, aligning with Hunter's commitment to spacious interiors.

The interior layout can be extensively customized, with a wide range of options available for personalization. Reviewers have noted a general finish quality that appeals to cruisers seeking a "cosy nook interior," often incorporating traditional elements that balance comfort with functionality. Beyond the main living areas, the design prioritizes practical features such as generous storage, good ventilation, and well-appointed heads, all contributing to its reputation as a serious cruiser capable of extended voyages. The cockpit coaming is ergonomically sculpted, designed to efficiently direct water away, highlighting the attention to detail in both comfort and practical sailing.