Design and Construction
The 146 is built using the patented Advanced Composite Process, which combines thermoformed UV-protected plastic with fiberglass mat and injected foam to produce a hull the maker rates as five times more impact resistant than conventional fiberglass anchor. Higher sides and a wider beam give the boat a roomy, reassuring feel, and the cockpit floor sits slightly above the waterline and slopes aft so that the self-bailing cockpit drains completely on its own anchor. The boat is unsinkable, a fact the maker cites as peace of mind for parents, and the centerboard is a kick-up type rather than a daggerboard, drawn into the down position by a bungee cord.
Rig and Handling
As a fractional sloop of 110 square feet of sail area with a 16 foot 7 inch mast, the 146 is equipped with a jib whose sheets run through pivoting cam cleats, making trimming easy from any position, including the helm. The wide beam and higher freeboard translate into stability that inspires confidence for less experienced sailors, and the board-up draft of only 9 inches lets her skim onto a beach or into a shallow slip, while the 3 foot 0 inch board-down draft gives her enough lateral grip to sail properly when the water allows. Her light 340 pound displacement and 35.14 sail-area-to-displacement ratio mark her as lively without being overpowering.
Accommodations
There are no belowdecks accommodations to speak of on a boat of this size; the 146 is a pure daysailer whose spacious cockpit and stability are the entirety of her "interior." She will carry the entire crew in that self-bailing, slightly-raised cockpit, and the ease of trailering, rigging, and launching means a family can be on the water within minutes of arriving at a ramp.
Refits and Ownership
Ownership of the 146 is straightforward given her simple rig, light weight, and trailerable nature. The Advanced Composite Process hull needs only the usual care for UV-protected plastic and gelcoat surfaces, and the bungee-driven centerboard is a minimal-maintenance item. With a capsize ratio of 3.73, she is stable for her class, and the easy handling noted above keeps her approachable for new sailors.
The Verdict
The Hunter 146 is a thoughtfully engineered little daysailer that bridges the gap between a high-performance singlehander and a traditional family boat. Her unsinkable, impact-resistant hull, self-bailing cockpit, and easy handling make her an ideal first sailboat or cottage companion.
Pros
- Unsinkable hull with five-times impact resistance over conventional fiberglass
- Self-bailing cockpit that drains completely on its own
- Easy to trailer, rig, and launch; carries the whole crew with stability
Cons
- No belowdecks accommodations or enclosed space
- Limited to shallow, sheltered sailing by size and rig
