Hunter 170 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 170 is defined by its stability and ease of operation, making it a staple for sailing schools and multi-generational families. Its hull shape features a wide, 7-foot beam that provides substantial initial stability, allowing it to carry its 133 square feet of sail area with less heel than narrower traditional dinghies. The boat utilizes a B&R rig—a signature Hunter feature with swept-back spreaders and no backstay—which allows for a larger, more powerful mainsail and a smaller, easily handled 110% jib.

Under sail, the boat is surprisingly responsive. Technical reviews highlight its "slippery" hull and efficient centerboard, which draws 4.5 feet when fully deployed, enabling the boat to track well and point reasonably high for a beamy daysailer. The high boom is a notable safety feature, clearing the heads of up to six adult passengers during tacks. While it is not a "blistering" performance racer, the 170 is capable of planing in moderate breezes, particularly when equipped with the optional 202-square-foot asymmetrical spinnaker. Its open transom and kick-up rudder make it an ideal choice for beaching or navigating shallow coastal waters.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the ACP construction offered many benefits at launch, it has become the most critical area for prospective buyers to inspect. Over time, the Luran-S plastic skin has shown a susceptibility to thermal expansion and contraction, which can lead to "crazing" or significant structural cracking, particularly in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations.

• ACP Hull Integrity: Inspect the entire hull and deck for "spider" cracks or deep fissures. These are most common around high-stress areas like the mast step, centerboard trunk, and gudgeons.
• Delamination: Check for "soft spots" on the cockpit floor or deck. This often indicates the plastic skin has separated from the foam core, which can be difficult to repair because traditional polyester or vinylester resins do not bond permanently to the Luran plastic.
• UV Degradation: Boats stored without covers may show yellowing or brittleness in the plastic skin. Buyers should prioritize boats that have been stored in temperature-controlled environments or under heavy-duty covers.
• Rudder Bracket: The transom-mounted rudder bracket has been identified as a potential weak point. Ensure the mounting bolts are secure and the surrounding plastic shows no signs of stress-induced cracking.
• Specialized Repairs: Be aware that repairs to ACP require specific adhesives, such as Plexus or Devcon Plastic Welder, rather than standard fiberglass kits.

Community & Resources

The Hunter 170 remains supported by a dedicated community of owners, many of whom have pioneered repair techniques for the aging ACP hulls. The Hunter Owners Association and the technical archives at Marlow-Hunter provide original owner’s manuals and rigging guides that are essential for maintaining the specific hardware of the 170. The boat's sibling models, which include the smaller Hunter 140 and 146, as well as the larger, sportier Hunter 216, share many of the same construction characteristics and components.

The Verdict

The Hunter 170 is an excellent entry-level daysailer that offers more cockpit room and stability than almost any other boat in the 17-foot class. However, its longevity is entirely dependent on its historical storage and climate.

Pros:

• Massive Cockpit: Comfortably seats 4-6 adults, a rarity for a boat of this length.
• User-Friendly Rig: The B&R rig and roller-furling jib make single-handed sailing manageable.
• Safety: Exceptionally stable with high-volume positive flotation making it virtually unsinkable.

Cons:

• Material Risks: The ACP hull can develop severe cracks that are difficult and expensive to repair correctly.
• Weight: At 480 lbs, it is heavier than many high-performance dinghies, requiring a trailer for most launches.
• Climate Sensitivity: Not recommended for outdoor storage in climates with hard-freeze winters.