Sailing Performance & Handling
The handling characteristics of the Hunter 19-2 are defined by its lightweight construction and its swing-up centerboard. According to the Hunter 19-2 Owner's Manual, the vessel carries a fractional rig that is designed for easy stepping, a crucial feature for a boat intended to be rigged at a boat ramp. Because the water ballast is located low in the hull but lacks the concentrated weight of a lead bulb, the boat feels "tender" initially. It will heel quickly to about 15 degrees before the ballast takes full effect and the hull hardens up.
In light air, the 19-2 is surprisingly nimble due to its high sail area-to-displacement ratio when the ballast is factored in. However, sailors frequently note that in heavy gusts, the boat requires early reefing to maintain control. The use of a kick-up rudder and a swing centerboard allows the boat to be sailed into extremely shallow water, but this also means the helm can feel light and less "locked-in" than a traditional fixed-keel boat. Tracking is adequate for coastal hopping, but the boat is most at home on protected lakes and bays where its ability to "beach" itself becomes a primary advantage.
Interior Comfort & Variations
Despite its 18' 9" length, the Hunter 19-2 offers an interior volume that punches well above its weight class. By eschewing a fixed keel trunk, the design team created an open-plan cabin with a surprising amount of lateral space. The layout typically features a V-berth forward and a surprisingly large double berth tucked under the cockpit sole, theoretically allowing four adults to sleep aboard, though two adults and two children is a more realistic complement for weekend cruising.
Materials are consistent with Hunter's production standards of the 1990s: molded fiberglass liners, easy-to-clean fabrics, and minimal wood trim to reduce maintenance. The boat includes a dedicated space for a portable toilet and a small galley area for a stove. There were few major variations in the 19-2 hull itself, but the model did see a rebranding in 1996. After this point, minor cosmetic updates were made, and the boat was marketed as the Hunter 19. It is important for buyers to distinguish the 19-2 from the older 1970s Cherubini 19, which is a much narrower, heavier boat with a significantly different interior volume and sailing feel.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
When inspecting a Hunter 19-2, the unique nature of its water-ballast system and swing-keel mechanics requires specific attention.
- Ballast Tank Integrity: The most critical check is the condition of the water ballast tank and its air vent. If the previous owner left water in the tank during a hard freeze, the fiberglass tank walls can crack, leading to internal leaks that are difficult to repair.
- Centerboard Pivot and Line: The swing centerboard is held by a pivot pin and raised via a control line. This line is prone to chafing, and the pivot pin can experience wear or "slop" over time, leading to a clunking sound while at anchor or under sail.
- Mast Step Compression: Given the "deck-stepped" nature of the mast on a relatively thin fiberglass cabin top, inspectors should look for "crazing" or spider-web cracks around the mast step, which may indicate a compression post issue or a softening of the deck core.
- Rudder Bracket Stress: The kick-up rudder assembly is a common failure point if the boat has been frequently grounded under high speed. Check the aluminum brackets and the plastic shear pins for signs of fatigue or improper replacement with metal bolts (which can cause fiberglass damage during a strike).
Community & Resources
Owners of the Hunter 19-2 are supported by a robust secondary market and a dedicated enthusiast base. The Hunter Owners Association remains the primary repository for technical diagrams and owner-modified upgrades. Because many components were shared with the larger Hunter 23.5, replacement parts for the rig and deck hardware are still relatively accessible through specialized marine outfitters that cater to the Marlow-Hunter legacy brands.
The Verdict
The Hunter 19-2 is an ideal entry-level cruiser for sailors who value portability and ease of maintenance over blue-water stability. It excels as a "weekend warrior" for inland lakes.
Pros:
- Exceptional Towability: Can be moved by most mid-sized SUVs without specialized equipment.
- Shallow Draft: The swing-keel and water-ballast design allow for beaching and exploring thin water.
- Interior Volume: One of the roomiest cabins available in the sub-20-foot category.
Cons:
- Tender Handling: Heels quickly in gusts, which can be unsettling for novice sailors.
- Ballast Maintenance: The water tank requires careful winterization in cold climates.
- Light Build: Not intended for heavy weather or significant offshore passages.
