Hunter 49 Information, Review, Specs

The hull was built using a solid fiberglass bottom with a structural grid system reinforced with Kevlar from the stem to the keel sump for added impact resistance. Above the waterline, the 49 utilized end-grain balsa coring to reduce weight and lower the center of gravity. This model also served as the foundation for the later Hunter 50 and the subsequent Marlow-Hunter 50, which utilized the same hull mold but featured an updated transom design and revised interior aesthetics.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 49 is a heavy-displacement cruiser that prioritizes stability and ease of motion over raw racing speed. Its sailing characteristics are defined by the signature B&R (Bergstrom & Ridgway) rig, a masthead design with 30-degree swept-back spreaders that eliminates the need for a backstay. This configuration allows for a large-roach, high-aspect mainsail that provides the bulk of the boat's power. According to an editorial review in Sail Magazine, the boat's hull features a "stern reflex" or hollow in the aft section—a signature Glenn Henderson design element—intended to increase the effective waterline length and reduce drag at higher speeds.

In practice, the boat tracks exceptionally well and exhibits a stiff, upright posture even when the breeze picks up, largely due to its high ballast ratio. The twin-wheel steering configuration offers excellent visibility from the windward side and facilitates easy access to the transom. While the high freeboard and large deck saloon profile create significant windage, making docking in a crosswind a task for the standard bow thruster, once offshore, the vessel’s 32,000-pound displacement provides a predictable and comfortable motion through a seaway. All control lines are led aft to the cockpit, allowing a couple to manage the large sail area without leaving the safety of the companionway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Hunter 49 is where the model truly distinguishes itself from its contemporaries, offering 6 feet 9 inches of headroom in the main saloon. The design team utilized the nearly 15-foot beam to create a social hub that feels more like a modern apartment than a traditional sailboat cabin. The layout was primarily offered in two configurations: a three-cabin "Owner’s Version" and a four-cabin version geared toward the luxury charter market.

In the owner’s configuration, the forward stateroom features a walk-around island queen berth, a vanity, and a private head with a dedicated shower stall. The main saloon is characterized by an expansive U-shaped settee to port and a smaller settee to starboard, flanking a large dining table. The galley is a highlight for long-term cruisers, featuring Corian countertops, a stainless steel three-burner stove, and front-loading refrigeration. The sibling Hunter 50 and Marlow-Hunter 50 variants maintained this core layout but often incorporated upgraded woodwork finishes and a revised "sugar scoop" transom that provided a more integrated swim platform compared to the 49's original fold-down design.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hunter 49 achieved notable acclaim shortly after its release, securing the 2006 Boat of the Year award from Cruising World in the Full-Sized Cruiser category. It was frequently featured in marine media as a case study for the "big boat, small crew" trend of the mid-2000s. The model also gained visibility through its association with the "Hunter Rendezvous" events, where it often served as the flagship for regional flotillas. While many 49s entered the charter fleets of the Caribbean, many more have become well-known in the bluewater community for successful trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific crossings, documented in various owner-led blogs and cruising forums.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• B&R Rig Tension: Because the B&R rig lacks a backstay, the standing rigging requires higher-than-average tension to maintain mast stability. Prospective buyers should have a rigger specifically familiar with this setup inspect the diagonal shrouds and ensure the mast is properly pre-bent to prevent "pumping" in heavy seas.
• Arch Integrity: The signature stainless steel cockpit arch supports the mainsheet traveler and bimini. Inspect the mounting points at the deck for any signs of gelcoat crazing or moisture ingress, as these areas bear significant loads from the mainsail.
• Rudder Bearings: Like many large production boats of this era, the Hunter 49 can develop play in the rudder bearings over time. A "clunking" sensation in the steering or visible movement in the rudder post during a survey may indicate the need for bearing replacement.
• Hull Grid Bonding: While the Kevlar-reinforced hull is robust, the internal structural grid must be inspected for any signs of secondary bonding failure, particularly in the bilge areas near the keel bolts, which could indicate a history of hard groundings.
• Generator and HVAC Access: On models equipped with the full suite of "big boat" amenities, access to the generator (typically located aft) and air conditioning units can be tight. Buyers should check the service logs for these systems, as deferred maintenance is common when components are difficult to reach.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Hunter 49 benefit from one of the most active and technically documented owner communities in the sailing world. The Hunter Owners Association (often found via the HunterOwners.com technical wiki) provides an exhaustive database of owner-contributed manuals, part numbers, and modification guides specific to the 49 and 50 series. For structural or factory-level support, Marlow-Hunter continues to provide parts and technical guidance from their facility in Alachua, Florida.

The Verdict

The Hunter 49 is a voluminous, well-engineered cruising platform that excels at providing a comfortable "home on the water" for sailors who prioritize living space and ease of handling.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom, ideal for live-aboards.
• Kevlar-reinforced hull provides peace of mind for offshore passages.
• The B&R rig allows for a powerful mainsail and a clear cockpit free of the mainsheet traveler.
• Strong value proposition in the pre-owned market compared to European equivalents.

Cons:

• High freeboard and large coachroof create significant windage during docking.
• The lack of a backstay can be a psychological hurdle for traditionalist sailors.
• The complex 12V and 110V electrical systems require diligent maintenance.