Hunter 19 Information, Review, Specs

The design exists in two primary iterations: the original Hunter 19, which features a flush deck and a more utilitarian profile, and the subsequent Hunter Europa. The Europa, introduced in the early 1970s, incorporated a raised coachroof to improve internal volume and headroom without compromising the hull's slippery, Squib-derived lines. According to the Hunter Association, the boat’s success paved the way for Hunter Boats to become a powerhouse in the UK marine industry, eventually leading to the David Thomas era of designs.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 19 is frequently described as a "giant killer" on the water due to its exceptional performance-to-size ratio. Because it shares the same hull form as the National Squib, it possesses a refined, low-displacement entry and a deep, efficient fin keel that allows it to point higher than many contemporary cruisers twice its length. With a displacement of roughly 680kg (1,500 lbs) and a high ballast ratio, the boat feels remarkably stiff and secure even when the breeze freshens.

Handling is characterized by extreme responsiveness, a trait inherited from its racing pedigree. Owners often note that the boat can be steered with a "fingertip touch" on the tiller. However, because it is a light-displacement vessel by 1970s standards, it requires active trimming. The sail area-to-displacement ratio is generous, meaning the boat accelerates quickly in light airs but requires early reefing—typically when the wind hits 12–15 knots—to keep it on its feet. Its tracking is surprisingly straight for a 19-footer, a quality Oliver Lee prioritized to ensure the boat wouldn't fatigue a solo sailor over long distances.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Hunter 19 is technically a cruiser, the "comfort" is best described as "camping afloat." The original flush-deck version offers very little vertical space, essentially serving as a dry place to sleep for two to four people on simple V-berths and quarter berths. The Europa variant significantly improved the experience by adding a coachroof, which provides enough sitting headroom for adults and allows for a small galley area, usually consisting of a single-burner stove and a plastic washbasin.

The interior is a single-module GRP moulding, which makes the boat easy to clean but offers little in the way of insulation or "wood-warmth." Storage is found beneath the berths, though most of this space is often occupied by the necessary foam buoyancy that makes the boat virtually unsinkable—a key safety feature marketed heavily during its production run. There are no heads (toilets) in the traditional sense; most owners rely on a portable chemical toilet tucked under the forward V-berth. Despite these limitations, the Europa's layout is surprisingly logical for a vessel with a 19-foot LOA, successfully accommodating two adults for weekend trips.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hunter 19's most significant cultural contribution is documented in the book Very Willing Griffin by David Blagden. The narrative chronicles his 1972 OSTAR voyage, where he sailed the 19-foot boat from Plymouth, UK, to Newport, Rhode Island. This feat remains one of the most cited examples of micro-cruising capability and solidified the Hunter 19’s reputation in nautical literature. The boat's performance in this race effectively silenced critics of small GRP yachts and remains a point of pride for the British Hunter community today.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on the following technical areas common to the Hunter 19 and Europa models:

• Keel Bolt Integrity: The cast iron fin keel is attached via mild steel bolts. In older models, these can suffer from "weeping" or corrosion. It is vital to check the internal hull-to-keel joint for rust staining or structural cracking in the GRP layup.
• Mast Step Compression: The deck-stepped mast puts considerable pressure on the coachroof. On the Europa model, check for any sagging or crazing around the mast step, which may indicate that the internal support (often a wooden pillar or reinforced bulkhead) has compressed or rotted.
• Rudder Bearings and Pintles: The transom-hung rudder is robust, but the pintles and gudgeons can develop play over decades of use. Significant "wobble" in the tiller usually indicates that the bushings need replacement.
• Chainplate Leaks: The shroud attachments (chainplates) can leak into the cabin, leading to dampness and potential degradation of the plywood bulkheads. Check for water staining on the interior liner near the shroud lines.
• Windows: On Europa models, the original acrylic windows are often crazed or prone to leaking due to the age of the bedding compound.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Hunter Association, which maintains an archive of original brochures and a registry of surviving hulls. Because the Hunter 19 is so closely related to the National Squib, owners often source parts and tuning advice from the National Squib Class Association as well.

The Verdict

The Hunter 19 Europa is a masterclass in small-boat naval architecture, offering a level of seaworthiness and speed that belies its diminutive stature. It is an ideal choice for the purist sailor who prioritizes handling and history over standing headroom and modern amenities.

Pros:

• Exceptional pointing ability and light-wind performance.
• Proven offshore pedigree and robust construction.
• Easily trailered behind a standard family car.
• Low maintenance costs due to simple systems and GRP construction.

Cons:

• Extremely cramped interior with no standing headroom.
• Requires early reefing to maintain control in heavy weather.
• Original iron keels require frequent painting to prevent rust.