Hunter 50 CC Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Hunter 50 CC is engineered for ease of handling, allowing a couple or even a solo sailor to manage a vessel of nearly 50 feet. Central to this is the B&R rig—a fractional sloop configuration with swept-back spreaders that eliminates the need for a backstay. This allows for a large, high-roach mainsail that provides the primary driving force. According to a technical review by Sail Magazine, the boat stands up well to a breeze, with the hull’s significant displacement (approximately 35,661 lbs for the deep draft version) providing a stable and predictable motion in choppy seas.

While not a light-air specialist, the 50 CC performs respectably on a reach; testers have noted speeds in the 7.5 to 8-knot range in 20 knots of wind. The rack-and-pinion steering system, often a Lewmar Mamba drive, provides a direct feel, though the boat’s high windage can make low-speed maneuvering in tight marinas a challenge without the optional bow thruster. Its siblings, the Hunter 49 and the later Marlow-Hunter 50, share this hull form, which features a "stern reflex" near the waterline to reduce drag and improve tracking.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 50 CC is where the model earned its reputation for "decadent" accommodations, famously winning Sail Magazine’s Best Boats award for excellence in accommodations. The centerpiece of the design is the master stateroom aft, which features an island queen berth. In earlier hulls, the berth was designed to hinge upward to reveal a factory-installed spa tub with water jets—a feature that became an option on later models as some owners preferred the additional storage space.

The saloon is bright and airy, benefiting from a 6'8" headroom and large fixed windows. The layout typically includes a massive U-shaped galley to starboard, equipped with Corian countertops, a recessed coffeemaker, and stainless steel fiddles. The "Owner’s Version" typically offers two or three cabins, while its aft-cockpit sibling, the Hunter 49, was more commonly seen in a four-cabin charter configuration. As noted by Canadian Boating, the use of high-quality woodwork and solid door frames marked a significant step up in finish compared to Hunter’s entry-level models from previous decades.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Hunter 50 CC made a significant splash at the 2009 Annapolis Boat Show, where its "shoreside amenities" were widely debated among traditionalists and modern cruisers. It has been featured extensively in editorial reviews by TradeABoat, which praised its evolution from the "lumpy" aesthetics of older models to a more integrated, elliptical design. The model also represents the transition period of the builder; shortly after its peak production, the company became Marlow-Hunter under the leadership of David Marlow, further refining the 50-foot platform into the Marlow-Hunter 50.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

1. Steering System Maintenance: The Mamba rack-and-pinion system is generally robust but requires periodic inspection of the universal joints and gearbox. Owners have reported "sluggishness" if the linkage is not properly adjusted or lubricated.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of this era, the 50 CC uses end-grain balsa coring in the deck and hull above the waterline. Buyers should use a moisture meter around the cockpit arch bases and stanchion mounts, where stress or improper rebedding can lead to water intrusion.
3. Plumbing Complexity: Because of the extensive amenities—including the optional spa tub, multiple heads, and often a washer/dryer—the plumbing system is complex. Prospective buyers should inspect the manifold system and check for signs of leaks in the specialized water-jet hardware under the master berth.
4. Grid Bonding: While the Henderson-designed Hunters moved toward a more integrated structural grid system, earlier units in the production run should be checked for "voids" or separation in the bonding between the hull and the internal liner, particularly in the bilge areas.

Community & Resources

The Hunter 50 CC is supported by a robust and active community. The Hunter Owners Association and the dedicated forums on SailboatOwners.com provide a deep repository of technical wikis and DIY upgrades specifically for the 49/50 platform. These resources are invaluable for sourcing specific parts for the B&R rig or troubleshooting the integrated Raymarine electronics suites common on these vessels.

The Verdict

The Hunter 50 CC is a "floating resort" that doesn't compromise entirely on sailing integrity, making it an ideal choice for coastal liveaboards or retirees who prioritize comfort above all else.

Pros:

• Unrivaled interior volume and headroom for its class.
• Easy-to-manage B&R rig with all lines led to the cockpit.
• The "Admiral's Seat" on the stern rail provides exceptional panoramic views.
• Heavy-duty rubrail and Kevlar-reinforced bow for added durability.

Cons:

• High windage can make docking difficult in crosswinds.
• Complexity of onboard systems requires diligent maintenance.
• The center-cockpit design results in more steps (levels) throughout the interior compared to the 49 AC.