Moorings 295 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Moorings 295, originating from the Hunter 29.5 design, commenced with its first build in 1994. The Hunter Design Team, led by Rob Mazza, approached the design with a focus on maximizing internal volume and light, a method that was considered "revolutionary" at the time. Rather than designing strictly from the hull outwards, the boat was largely designed "from the inside out," minimizing bulkheads and keeping the forward berth open to enhance the sense of brightness and space below deck. This ethos aligned with Hunter Marine's broader strategy under Warren Luhrs, which sought to apply production efficiencies from powerboat manufacturing to create comfortable, accessible cruising sailboats with robust construction and innovative features. While specific variations like MkI or MkII versions are not widely noted, the design aimed for a broad appeal, catering to sailors seeking ease of handling and comfort.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moorings 295, sharing the same hull and rig characteristics as the Hunter 29.5, offers a balanced performance profile for a cruiser of its size. With a sail area-to-displacement ratio of approximately 16.4, she is considered average in terms of light-air performance, suggesting she won't be the first to move in a whisper, but will perform adequately across a range of conditions. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.357 indicates a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze. This is corroborated by owner feedback, which describes her as a "stiff sailer" and "great boat in serious storms".

However, some owners note that the boat's large main sail can be "over powered" and requires early reefing, typically around 15 knots of apparent wind, with a second reef at about 22 knots, to maintain control and comfort. Despite this, the boat is generally praised for being "super easy" to sail and handle, with "plenty of sail to get you moving". With a calculated hull speed of 6.96 knots, she offers respectable cruising speeds. Overall, the Moorings 295 is regarded as a boat that provides a comfortable motion and reliable behavior in various sea states, suitable for coastal cruising rather than demanding offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite the limited explicit detail in the boat's specifications, the interior of the Moorings 295 (and by extension, the Hunter 29.5) is a hallmark of its design philosophy, emphasizing spaciousness and liveability. The design prioritized maximum accommodations, aiming for a bright and open feel below deck by minimizing bulkheads and keeping the forward V-berth arrangement relatively open. The interior typically features a functional galley, a salon with seating, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific headroom figures are not available, Hunter's reputation for comfortable interiors suggests adequate standing room for a boat of this size. Construction utilizes fiberglass composites and a modular approach, aiming for efficiency in production while providing a comfortable environment for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moorings 295, often reflecting experiences with the Hunter 29.5, generally praise the model for its excellent value, ease of use, and comfortable living spaces. Many appreciate the "large cockpit and open transom," which enhances outdoor living and access. The boat's systems are often described as "simple" and "easy to maintain," contributing to more time spent sailing. Owners frequently commend its robustness and comfortable motion in a seaway, even in challenging conditions. The boat is considered well-suited for two people for extended coastal trips, with sufficient water capacity for several days.

However, some common issues have been noted. The large main sail, while providing good power, often requires early reefing. Recurring maintenance concerns include water leaks around the rub rails and into the swim platform, which are acknowledged as common problems by some dealers and owners. Additionally, hoisting the large main sail can be an effort for some, a frequently mentioned point in owner forums. Despite these minor drawbacks, many owners express satisfaction with their purchase, often stating they would buy the boat again.