Hunter Squib Information, Review, Specs

The Squib's hull became the architectural foundation for several other notable models within the Hunter lineage. The most prominent sibling is the Hunter 19, which utilized the same hull but added a small coachroof and cabin to create a pocket cruiser. This design was further refined into the Hunter Europa, which featured a more modern interior layout and became famous after David Blagden successfully completed the 1972 OSTAR (Observer Single-handed Trans-Atlantic Race) in one, proving the seaworthiness of the Lee-designed hull. According to historical records from the National Squib Class Association, over 800 units have been built, with production continuing under various license holders, including BPJ Boats and more recently Rondar Boats, ensuring the class remains vibrant across the UK and Ireland.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Squib are defined by its high ballast ratio. With a total displacement of approximately 1,500 lbs and a 680 lb cast-iron keel, the boat carries nearly 45% of its weight in ballast. This provides a level of stiffness and security rarely found in 19-foot boats. In a breeze, the Squib is remarkably "feet-down," meaning it resists excessive heeling, allowing the crew to focus on tactics rather than athletic hiking. This makes it an ideal platform for older sailors or those transitioning from dinghies who still desire competitive racing without the physical toll of a high-performance skiff.

Under sail, the Squib is known for its balanced helm and exceptional tracking. The fractional rig, usually sporting the class-standard tan-colored sails, is manageable but offers enough adjustment to reward skilled tuners. The boat performs admirably upwind, slicing through chop with a momentum-driven motion that mimics a much larger yacht. While it is not a planing hull, it can be surprisingly lively off the wind under its symmetric spinnaker. Technical reviews often highlight the boat’s ability to remain controllable in Heavy Weather, a trait famously validated by the success of its sibling, the Hunter 19, in offshore conditions.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Squib holds a prestigious place in British maritime culture as a "National Class." Its longevity is celebrated in numerous editorial retrospectives by publications such as Yachting Monthly, which often reference the Squib hull's role in the "small boat revolution" of the late 1960s. The class is a staple at Cowes Week and other major UK regattas, frequently drawing some of the largest one-design fleets in the country. Its cultural footprint is defined not by celebrity owners, but by its ubiquity in club racing and its reputation as the "entry-level" keelboat that trained generations of competitive sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of older Hunter-built Squibs should pay close attention to the cast-iron keel. Because these keels are bolted to a fiberglass hull, rust can develop at the joint, and the keel bolts themselves should be inspected for corrosion or "weeping." If the boat has been left on a mooring, the iron keel may require sandblasting and epoxy coating to prevent pitting.

The deck of the Squib is a sandwich construction, and high-stress areas—particularly around the mast step and the chainplates—can suffer from core delamination if water has ingressed through hardware fittings. Walking on the deck and feeling for "soft spots" or listening for a dull thud during a percussion test is essential. Additionally, the rudder and its pintles are known wear points; any significant play in the rudder stock should be addressed to maintain the boat's signature precise handling. Finally, for those looking to race, it is vital to verify that the boat has a current measurement certificate, as modifications to the rig or hull over the decades can disqualify a boat from official one-design competition.

Community & Resources

The primary authority for the boat is the National Squib Class Association, which maintains the strict one-design rules, organizes the national championships, and provides a technical archive for owners. This association is one of the most active in the UK, offering a wealth of knowledge on rig tuning, hull maintenance, and vintage restoration. For those interested in the cruising variants of the hull, the British Hunter Association offers support for the Hunter 19 and Europa models, focusing on the broader legacy of the Oliver Lee designs.

The Verdict

The Hunter Squib is a masterclass in functional design, offering a bridge between the agility of a dinghy and the stability of a keelboat. While it lacks the high-speed thrills of modern carbon-fiber sportboats, its reliability and the sheer depth of its racing fleet make it an unparalleled choice for club-level competition.

Pros:

• Exceptional stability and seaworthiness for a 19-foot boat.
• Highly active and professional class association with excellent resale value.
• Simple, robust construction that is easy to maintain and trailer.
• Predictable handling that is forgiving for beginners but technical enough for experts.

Cons:

• Cast-iron keel requires consistent maintenance to prevent rust.
• Older models may suffer from deck core issues or worn hardware.
• Heavier than modern equivalents, requiring a more substantial towing vehicle.