Moorings 335 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Moorings 335 began production in 1988, emerging from the design stable of Hunter Marine, specifically based on their successful Hunter 33.5 model. While the designer is often attributed to "Warren Luhrs and the Hunter Design Team," reflecting Hunter's collaborative design process, the 33.5 series was a product of the era when Hunter Marine shifted its focus from purely racing boats to more comfortable cruising designs. This transition aligned with the company's ethos of applying production line efficiencies, honed in their powerboat manufacturing background, to the sailboat industry. Hunter sought to create vessels known for spacious interiors, robust construction, and innovative features that enhanced the sailing experience, a philosophy clearly evident in the 33.5 line.

The Hunter 33.5, which forms the basis for the Moorings 335, was in production until 1994, succeeding earlier models and eventually being replaced by newer designs under the tenure of later Hunter chief designers. Owners have noted minor changes to the layout occurring around 1989, though specific Mark I or Mark II designations are not commonly referenced.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moorings 335, inheriting the sailing characteristics of the Hunter 33.5, is designed for a balanced and comfortable ride. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is approximately 17.05, placing it in a category that suggests respectable performance, particularly in light to moderate air. While not a high-performance racer, this ratio indicates sufficient sail power to move the boat efficiently without being overly sensitive to every puff.

The ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 41.3% signifies a good degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to wind effectively and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. This stability is a key attribute for a cruising boat, contributing to crew comfort during longer passages. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio (DLR) of approximately 247.22, the Moorings 335 falls into the mid-weight cruiser category, indicating a solid, capable boat that is neither excessively heavy nor ultralight.

Anecdotal reports from Hunter 33.5 owners often describe the boat's handling as neutral and light, with good tracking capabilities. It is generally regarded as sailing well in the 10-15 knot wind range. While some owners note that the fractional rig with swept-back spreaders may slightly restrict extreme pointing ability when sailing hard on the wind, the overall consensus is that the boat is easy to handle and performs competently for its intended purpose as a cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures for the Moorings 335 are not consistently documented, the Hunter 33.5, upon which it is based, was known for its emphasis on spacious interiors, a hallmark of Hunter's design philosophy during that era. Typically, sailboats of this size from Hunter Marine offered a conventional interior layout designed for comfortable cruising.

The interior of a Hunter 33.5, and by extension the Moorings 335, generally features a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, a galley, and an enclosed head. The galley usually includes a sink, stove, and icebox or refrigeration, catering to basic cruising needs. Storage is typically adequate for coastal cruising, with lockers and shelves integrated throughout the cabin. Hunter boats of this period often utilized a mix of fiberglass and wood trim, offering a functional yet warm interior ambiance. The design prioritizes usability and comfort for charter guests or families embarking on leisure cruises.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter 33.5, the foundation of the Moorings 335, frequently praise the boat for its overall value, ease of maintenance, and solid construction. Many find the boat well-built and capable of handling various conditions, with one owner noting its ability to manage "serious squalling." The comfortable motion in a seaway is also a recurring positive comment, contributing to enjoyable cruising.

However, some common issues have been noted by owners. The bow area can be congested with the anchor locker and furler, potentially making access challenging. A frequently mentioned problem relates to original deck fittings, particularly the center portlight, which some owners have found prone to leaking, often requiring re-bedding as a maintenance item. Despite these minor concerns, the Hunter 33.5, and thus the Moorings 335, maintains a strong owner community, underscoring its enduring appeal as a reliable and comfortable cruising sailboat.