Hunter 320 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Hunter 320 are defined by its Bergstrom & Ridder (B&R) rig, a design that eliminates the traditional backstay in favor of 30-degree swept-back spreaders and a tripod-like shroud arrangement. According to an editorial review by Cruising World, this setup allows for a highly efficient, high-roach mainsail that provides the bulk of the boat's power. Because the spreaders are swept so far aft, the boat is generally limited to a small, non-overlapping jib, which makes tacking exceptionally easy for short-handed crews.

On the water, the Hunter 320 is a stiff performer in moderate breezes, thanks in part to its generous beam and the option of a wing keel that keeps the center of gravity low while maintaining a modest 4'4" draft. However, the lack of a backstay means the forestay tension cannot be adjusted on the fly to flatten the jib in heavy air, and the wide hull can experience significant drag if over-heeled. Handling is predictable, with the large spade rudder providing enough leverage to maintain control even when the boat is powered up. The 320 is best described as a "momentum" boat; once it finds its groove in 10-15 knots of wind, it tracks well, though it may struggle to point as high as more slender, performance-oriented cruisers of the same era.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Hunter 320 is widely regarded as its strongest selling point, often described as having the "Great Room" feel typically reserved for 36-footers. The layout centers on a large salon with a U-shaped dinette to starboard and a longitudinal galley to port. The use of a structural fiberglass grid system allows for a wide-open floor plan with 6'2" of headroom, which is exceptional for a boat of this length.

Sleeping accommodations are divided into a V-berth forward and a signature transverse double berth tucked under the cockpit sole. The aft cabin is surprisingly airy for its location, benefiting from several opening ports for ventilation. The galley is equipped with a two-burner stove, a deep sink, and an icebox (often converted to refrigeration by owners). Throughout the production run, variations were minimal, though later models saw improvements in the cabinetry finishes and the integration of the electrical panel. The 320’s sibling, the Hunter 310, featured a more open transom design, whereas the 320 integrated a more structured "sugar scoop" swim platform that improved dockside access and safety while boarding from a dinghy.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Hunter 320, potential buyers should focus on several areas common to the construction methods of late-90s Hunter models:

• The "Hunter Smile": Like many production boats with lead or iron keels bolted to a fiberglass stub, the 320 can develop a hairline crack at the forward leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it should be checked to ensure the keel bolts are torqued to manufacturer specifications and that there is no structural movement in the grid.
• B&R Rig Tension: The B&R rig requires higher-than-average shroud tension to maintain mast pre-bend and forestay stability. Buyers should look for signs of "pumping" in the mast or loose rigging, which can lead to premature metal fatigue in the wire or tangs.
• Compression Post Base: The load of the deck-stepped mast is transferred to the hull via a compression post. In some units, moisture can seep into the wooden block or structural member at the base of the post if the deck seals fail, leading to compression or rot.
• Portlight Seals: The large, wraparound deck windows are a hallmark of the 320’s design but are prone to leaking if the original sealant has UV-degraded. Look for water staining on the cabinetry directly below the windows.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Hunter 320 benefit from one of the most robust and active brand-specific communities in the marine world. The Hunter Owners Association (often hosted via sailboatowners.com) provides an extensive technical library including original factory manuals, wiring diagrams, and a "Parts Wiki" that identifies the OEM manufacturers for everything from the hatches to the plumbing fixtures. While no longer a standalone physical club, the digital knowledge base for the 320 is exhaustive, offering DIY solutions for almost every common repair.

The Verdict

The Hunter 320 is an ideal entry-level coastal cruiser for families who value interior volume and ease of handling over raw racing speed or offshore "bulletproof" construction. It excels in weekend hop-skipping and bay cruising, offering a level of comfort that few boats in the 30-to-32-foot range can match.

Pros:

• Exceptional Interior Volume: Offers the living space of a much larger vessel.
• Ease of Handling: The B&R rig and small jib make it a breeze to sail solo or with an inexperienced crew.
• Cockpit Ergonomics: The integrated stern rail seats and wide cockpit are perfect for entertaining.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: The small headsail can leave the boat underpowered in light winds.
• Rigging Complexity: The B&R rig requires specialized knowledge to tune correctly.
• Aesthetics: The high-freeboard, "bubble" styling is polarizing to traditionalists.