Hunter 340 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 340 is defined by its B&R (Bergstrom & Ridgely) rig, a design that eliminates the backstay by utilizing 30-degree swept-back spreaders. This configuration allows for a large, high-roach mainsail which provides the bulk of the vessel's driving power. On the water, this translates to a boat that excels in light-to-moderate air, as the lack of a backstay allows for a much larger mainsail area than traditional rigs of this size.

With a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) typically hovering around 185 and a generous sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) near 20, the 340 is relatively nimble for a high-volume cruiser. Handling is characterized by its responsiveness in flat water, though the high freeboard and light displacement can make it prone to windage when maneuvering in tight slips or when facing a steep chop. According to an editorial review by Practical Sailor, the boat’s performance is respectable for its class, though it is clearly optimized for comfort over bluewater stiffness. The steering is generally light, provided the mainsail is reefed early; the large main can create significant weather helm if carried too long into freshening breezes.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Hunter 340 is where the model arguably won most of its fans. By pushing the beam well aft and maintaining a high coachroof, Hunter created a cabin that feels significantly larger than its 34-foot LOA suggests. The layout features a large, U-shaped galley to starboard, which is noted for its Corian countertops and deep sinks—features more commonly found on 40-footers of the same era.

The master stateroom is located aft, featuring a massive athwartships queen-sized berth that sits beneath the cockpit sole. Ventilation, often a weakness in aft cabins, is addressed via multiple opening ports. Forward, a V-berth offers guest accommodations, though it is notably tighter than the aft suite. The salon utilizes a circular dinette that can convert into a double berth, allowing the boat to theoretically sleep seven. While no major structural variations were produced, some units featured the "pro-lead" package which included upgraded winches and sail handling hardware. The 340 shares its hull with the Hunter 336, and its design DNA is closely linked to the larger Hunter 380, which utilized similar arch and rig geometries.

Popular Mentions & Media

While the Hunter 340 has not been the primary subject of major cinematic works, it is a staple of the "weekend warrior" cruising community and appears frequently in regional sailing publications as a benchmark for the used cruiser market. It has been featured in several retrospective reviews by SpinSheet and Sailing Magazine, often cited as the quintessential "starter" coastal cruiser for families transitioning from day-sailing to overnighting.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Hunter 340 with a specific focus on the following technical areas:

• The B&R Rig Tension: Because the rig lacks a backstay, the shroud tension is critical to mast stability. Buyers should inspect the chainplates and ensure the rig has been tuned by a professional familiar with Hunter’s specific tension requirements.
• Arch Integrity: The stainless steel cockpit arch handles the mainsheet load. Inspect the mounting points on the coaming for stress cracks (crazing) in the gelcoat, which may indicate over-loading or loose mounting bolts.
• Compression Post: Like many Hunters of this vintage, the wooden block or support at the base of the compression post can be susceptible to moisture if the mast step leaks. Check for any sagging in the deck or compression of the interior timber.
• Waste System Odor: The 340 utilizes a plastic holding tank located in the aft section. Owners have frequently reported permeate odors; upgrading to low-permeability hoses is a common and necessary fix.

Community & Resources

The Hunter Owners Association serves as the primary technical repository for the 340. This community-driven platform provides access to original owner manuals, wiring diagrams, and a robust forum where decades of specific 340-series maintenance advice is archived. Additionally, Marlow-Hunter continues to provide some limited support and parts for legacy models.

The Verdict

The Hunter 340 is a masterclass in spatial efficiency, offering a "big boat" feel in a package that is easy to dock and maintain. While it is not a heavy-weather offshore voyager, it is an exceptional platform for coastal hopping and social sailing.

Pros:

• Incredible interior volume and headroom for a 34-foot boat.
• The cockpit arch keeps the mainsheet out of the way, making it safe for children and guests.
• Large aft berth is among the best in its size class.
• Easy to sail shorthanded due to the B&R rig and sail controls led aft.

Cons:

• High windage makes docking challenging in heavy crosswinds.
• Light construction can lead to a "bouncy" motion in heavy seas.
• Lack of a backstay prevents the use of some traditional downwind sail configurations.