Hunter 28 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 28 is characterized by its moderate displacement and a sail plan designed for ease of use rather than raw racing speed. With a Displacement-to-Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 205 and a Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of roughly 16.2, the boat is categorized as a moderate coastal cruiser. It features a fractional rig with a large mainsail and a smaller, easy-to-tack headsail, a configuration influenced by Warren Luhrs’ experience with B&R rigs in solo ocean racing. This setup allows the crew to handle most of the power from the cockpit, reducing the physical demand of sail changes.

Under sail, the boat is known for its predictable handling, though its high topsides can make it susceptible to windage in tight marinas. Most hulls were equipped with a shallow-draft wing keel (drawing only 3'9"), which allows for "gunkholing" in thin waters like the Chesapeake Bay or the Florida Keys, though it sacrifices some upwind pointing ability compared to the rarer deep-fin version. According to the Hunter 28 Owner's Manual, the vessel’s stability is derived from its generous 10'6" beam, providing a stiff platform that resists initial heel, an attribute often appreciated by nervous guests or new sailors.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The standout feature of the Hunter 28 is undoubtedly its interior volume, which was revolutionary for a 28-foot boat in the early 1990s. By utilizing a wide beam and high freeboard, Hunter managed to provide an incredible 6'2" of headroom in the main salon. The layout is centered around an open-concept cabin that eliminates the bulkhead between the V-berth and the salon, creating an expansive, airy feel.

The galley is surprisingly functional for a vessel of this size, typically featuring a two-burner stove, a deep sink, and an insulated icebox. To starboard, a fully enclosed head with a shower and a small navigation station provides the "big boat" amenities necessary for weekend trips. Perhaps the most significant "comfort" feature is the aft cabin, which features a large double berth tucked under the cockpit sole. Unlike its predecessor, the 28.5, which had a more traditional narrow quarter berth, the 28 offers an athwartships sleeping arrangement that provides more shoulder room. Throughout its production run, the 28 remained largely consistent, though minor variations in upholstery and wood finishes occurred as the company refined its production line efficiency.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of several high-signal areas typical of Hunter models from this era.

• Keel-Hull Joint: Often referred to as the "Hunter Smile," a hairline crack may appear at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate a need to re-torque the keel bolts or address slight movement in the structural grid.
• Compression Post Support: Inspect the area where the mast compression post meets the floor grid. In some units, moisture penetration or structural compression can lead to a slight "dip" in the deck or difficulty tuning the rig.
• Portlight Leaks: The plexiglass wrap-around windows are a signature Hunter look but are prone to crazing and leaks over time. Resealing these requires specific adhesives and can be a labor-intensive DIY project.
• Rudder Bearings: Check for excessive play in the steering system. The spade rudder design is effective but puts significant stress on the bearings, which may require replacement to maintain precise handling.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Hunter 28s were powered by a Yanmar 2GM20F diesel engine. While highly reliable, the mixing elbow is a known wear item that can clog with carbon, leading to overheating or loss of power.

Community & Resources

The Hunter 28 benefits from one of the most robust owner networks in the marine industry. The Hunter Owners Association (now hosted largely through SailboatOwners.com) provides an extensive database of modifications, manuals, and technical advice specifically for this hull. Because the boat was built by Hunter Marine during their peak production years, many original parts, including the distinctive stainless steel hardware and molded components, are still supported by Marlow-Hunter and third-party suppliers like Hunter Owners.

The Verdict

The Hunter 28 remains a top contender for the title of "best first cruising boat." It successfully balances the demands of a small-boat budget with the interior luxuries of a much larger vessel.

Pros:

• Incredible Volume: Headroom and sleeping accommodations that rival many 32-footers.
• Draft Flexibility: The wing keel makes it a premier choice for coastal gunkholing.
• Ease of Handling: The fractional rig and cockpit layout are designed for solo or short-handed sailing.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: The boat’s weight and windage can make it sluggish in light breezes.
• Aesthetic Trade-off: The high freeboard and "bubble" coachroof prioritize interior space over classic nautical lines.
• Upwind Tracking: The shallow wing keel limits pointing ability compared to deeper-draft competitors.