Hull Design and Deck Layout
Mazza drew the 336 as a deliberate sequel to the 29.5, and the family resemblance is unmistakable: a straight sheer rising gently toward the bow, a distinctive circular cockpit extending outboard to the toerail, a wraparound windshield foredeck window, and a bow-to-stern rubber rubrail that unifies the profile. The hull carries a displacement of roughly 11,000 pounds on a waterline of 28 feet 7 inches — figures that place it firmly in the moderate-displacement cruiser class. The bulb keel draws 4 feet 6 inches, which opens a broad range of anchorages, and the 11-foot-8-inch beam contributes to the stability and interior volume that buyers in this category expect. The boat received ABS Plan Approval covering deck and hull structure, chainplates, bulkheads, and bonding — a structural certification that reassured buyers during a period when Hunter was actively rebuilding its quality reputation.
The deck is organized for shorthanded sailing. Running rigging is led from the mast under a bridgedeck to the cockpit, keeping the side decks clear. Stainless steel handrails minimize maintenance while providing secure footing on passage. A line locker positioned in front of the companionway keeps halyards organized and off the cockpit sole — a small detail that proves its worth on a busy day of tacking.
The Bergstrom Rig and Sail Handling
The defining technical feature of the 336 is its Lars Bergstrom fractional spar with 30-degree swept spreaders, a configuration that eliminates the backstay entirely and shifts the boat's horsepower into a large full-roach, full-batten mainsail. The headsail — a 110-percent lapper on a Profurl furler — is therefore smaller than on a conventional sloop of comparable size, which makes trimming the jib considerably less demanding coming out of a tack. Upwind, the fractional rig points well: one test logged apparent wind angles in the high 30s to 40 degrees even in very light air, and observers noted the 336 outpacing a 29.5 running hard under power in 15-knot conditions.
The trade-offs are real and worth understanding before purchase. Because the swept spreaders prevent the mainsail from being fully eased when sailing dead downwind, wing-on-wing runs require careful management; many owners fit a gennaker and sail deep-reaching angles rather than pure runs to keep the main drawing cleanly. The intermediate shrouds are discontinuous, which means rig tuning requires a crew member to be hoisted to the first spreaders — a sensible arrangement on a racing boat but an inconvenience on a family cruiser. Proper rig tension is demanding: the Bergstrom configuration requires precise tuning to work correctly, and first-time owners benefit from professional rig setup at the beginning of each season. Vang trimming is essential for good mainsail shape since there is no backstay to control mast bend, and the lazyjacks make reefing manageable for two people. A single-line reefing system leads under the bridgedeck for cockpit adjustment, which is welcome when conditions deteriorate.
Cockpit and Deck Ergonomics
The circular cockpit is the 336's signature social space. It seats six to eight comfortably, with higher-than-average backrests, a built-in table off the steering pedestal, stern rail seats, and a walk-through transom that makes boarding from a dock or dinghy simple. The transom is also fitted with a stainless steel swim ladder, a rubrail protecting the gelcoat during dinghy access, and a cockpit shower. The short traveler mounted forward of the wheel is within easy reach of the helmsman.
The hot-tub shape of the cockpit — extending to the toerail on both sides — is visually distinctive and generates divided opinion. Functionally it delivers exceptional space for entertaining at anchor. Underway, the boat handles smoothly in tacks and re-accelerates quickly on a new heading, and backing the boat into a slip under power was described as manageable even in a difficult crosswind.
Accommodations
Below the companionway the 336 is offered in two distinct layouts. The first is an open-plan salon with a full wraparound settee and a forward V-berth screened by curtains — a configuration optimized for entertaining below and socializing with two other couples. The second layout adds an enclosed forward stateroom suitable for family crew or charter use. Both versions share the same aft cabin, which features an extra-wide queen-size berth, a hanging locker, and generous storage; the cockpit's circular geometry is used to gain headroom in this aft cabin.
Natural light is exceptional. The boat has eleven opening windows and hatches, which gives the interior a brightness uncommon in a 33-foot cruiser and keeps ventilation strong in warm-weather anchorages. Teak and ash accents finished with clear varnish add warmth without heaviness.
The galley wraps around efficiently. Twin deep sinks are covered with cutting boards that double as a drainboard, the icebox has a hydraulic assist to hold the lid open while searching below, and built-in dish racks, glass holders, and cup holders demonstrate the attention to everyday usability that distinguishes this design from competitors who treat the galley as an afterthought.
Known Issues and Rig Considerations
The Bergstrom rig's operational limitations are the primary area where owners report friction. The spreader tips cause chafe on the mainsail leech during broad-reaching angles, and while spreader patches address the symptom, the underlying geometry means this is a boat that rewards careful sail trim and proactive leech protection. Owners who fit batten cars on a low-friction traveler system report that handling the large full-batten main single-handed becomes substantially easier — the reviewer noted that batcars should have been standard equipment from the factory. The discontinuous intermediate shrouds also mean that owners who do not regularly inspect the toggles and terminals at the lower junction point are taking on incremental risk, since this connection is load-bearing and less visible than a standard continuous-wire system.
The 27-horsepower Yanmar diesel is smooth, relatively quiet, and capable of driving the boat to hull speed at roughly half throttle, which gives a comfortable reserve for maneuvering in current or tight spaces. No unusual mechanical complaints are documented in the source material.
The Verdict
The Hunter 336 is a coherent, well-executed coastal cruiser that delivers more sailing performance and interior comfort than its size class would suggest. The Bergstrom rig is genuinely efficient upwind and in moderate air, and the cockpit is among the most social of any production cruiser at this length. The compromises — limited downwind sheeting, demanding rig tuning, chafe risk at the spreaders — are manageable with good seamanship and a few targeted upgrades, and none of them are structural or safety-critical. For a couple or small family who prioritizes light-air performance, easy daysailing, and a comfortable anchorage, the 336 is a strong candidate.
Pros
- Backstay-free fractional rig performs well upwind and in light air
- Large full-batten mainsail with lazyjacks and single-line reefing suits shorthanded sailing
- Spacious circular cockpit with logical ergonomics and walk-through transom
- Exceptional below-deck light from eleven opening windows and hatches
- Two-cabin layout offers genuine privacy; galley appointments above class average
- 27 hp Yanmar provides ample power reserve for maneuvering
- ABS Plan Approval provides structural assurance
Cons
- Swept spreaders prevent full mainsail ease on dead downwind runs
- Discontinuous intermediate shrouds require a mast-climb for proper tuning
- Leech chafe at spreader tips demands vigilance and proactive protection
- Batten cars not fitted from the factory on a sail that genuinely requires them
- Rig requires precise tuning tension; benefits from professional setup
