Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

  • Sailboat Guide

Hunter 23 is a 23 ′ 3 ″ / 7.1 m monohull sailboat designed by Hunter Marine and built by Hunter Marine between 1985 and 1992.

Drawing of Hunter 23

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

  • SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
  • D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
  • LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
  • LOA: Length overall in feet
  • Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

CB version- Draft BU: 2.0’/.61m Draft BD: 4.9’/1.49m

Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.

  • About Sailboat Guide

©2024 Sea Time Tech, LLC

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

  • New Sailboats
  • Sailboats 21-30ft
  • Sailboats 31-35ft
  • Sailboats 36-40ft
  • Sailboats Over 40ft
  • Sailboats Under 21feet
  • used_sailboats
  • Apps and Computer Programs
  • Communications
  • Fishfinders
  • Handheld Electronics
  • Plotters MFDS Rradar
  • Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
  • Anchoring Mooring
  • Running Rigging
  • Sails Canvas
  • Standing Rigging
  • Diesel Engines
  • Off Grid Energy
  • Cleaning Waxing
  • DIY Projects
  • Repair, Tools & Materials
  • Spare Parts
  • Tools & Gadgets
  • Cabin Comfort
  • Ventilation
  • Footwear Apparel
  • Foul Weather Gear
  • Mailport & PS Advisor
  • Inside Practical Sailor Blog
  • Activate My Web Access
  • Reset Password
  • Customer Service

23 foot hunter sailboat

  • Free Newsletter

23 foot hunter sailboat

Pearson Rhodes 41/Rhodes Bounty II Used Sailboat Review

23 foot hunter sailboat

Hallberg Rassy 42

23 foot hunter sailboat

How to Perform Your Own Pre-Buy Inspection

23 foot hunter sailboat

Beneteau 323 Used Boat Review

23 foot hunter sailboat

How Does the Gulf Stream Influence our Weather?

A lithium conversion requires a willing owner and a capable craft. Enter the Privilege 435 catamaran Confianza.

Can You Run a Marine Air-Conditioner on Battery Power?

23 foot hunter sailboat

Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing

23 foot hunter sailboat

Your New Feature-Packed VHF Radio

23 foot hunter sailboat

Practical Sailor Classic: The Load on Your Rode

23 foot hunter sailboat

Anchor Rodes for Smaller Sailboats

23 foot hunter sailboat

Ground Tackle Inspection Tips

23 foot hunter sailboat

Shoe Goo II Excels for Quick Sail Repairs

23 foot hunter sailboat

What Oil Analysis Reveals About Your Engine

23 foot hunter sailboat

An Unusual Sailboat Shines a Light On A Sustainable Future

23 foot hunter sailboat

Is It Time to Get an Electric Dinghy Motor?

23 foot hunter sailboat

Bottom Paint 30-Month Update

23 foot hunter sailboat

Battle of the Teak Cleaners — Snappy Teak-Nu vs. Star Brite

23 foot hunter sailboat

New Seacocks for the Offshore Sailor

23 foot hunter sailboat

Bottom Paint Care

23 foot hunter sailboat

Are E-bikes Worth the Extra Weight and Cost?

23 foot hunter sailboat

How to Handle the Head

23 foot hunter sailboat

How to Select Crew for a Passage or Delivery

23 foot hunter sailboat

Preparing A Boat to Sail Solo

23 foot hunter sailboat

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

23 foot hunter sailboat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

23 foot hunter sailboat

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

marine toilet test

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

23 foot hunter sailboat

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

  • Sailboat Reviews

Hunter 23.5

This family cruiser is innovative and has lots of room. in gusty winds, however, it is quick to stall..

Hunter Marine Corp. is noted for its slick, innovative and low-cost mass production sailers. The Hunter 23.5, new in 1992, fits the bill in all respects.

Hunter 23.5

The 23.5 was designed as a trailerable family cruiser for entry-level sailors. Like most Hunters, the boat offers lots of space in the cockpit and down below, and comes with the famous Cruise Pac, which provides just about anything a customer needs, including sails, motor, trailer, lifelines, anchor, life jackets, flares and a copy of Chapman’s Piloting, Seamanship and Small Boat Handling . It’s this type of marketing (plus price: the 1992 price was $13,500) that has helped make Hunter one of the most successful sailboat producers in the U.S.

No one has ever faulted the Alachua, Florida, builder for offering anything but fresh, well-thought out designs. The most striking feature of the 23.5 is its water ballast system, new to Hunter. The system permits an operator to remove 1,000 pounds of ballast from the trailering weight. A retractable centerboard, kick-up rudder and mast that’s fairly easy to step and unstep further enhances trailerability. All told, boat, motor and trailer weigh a combined 2,450 pounds. This model also contains enough foam to provide positive flotation.

While Hunter has enjoyed considerable success with the buying public, it has also suffered from a negative image problem. Earlier PS reviews have criticized Hunter products for a lack of quality control-various systems kinks, lightweight hulls, poor finish work and general absence of blue-water seaworthiness. On the other hand, Hunter owners, while acknowledging a prevailing lack of respect, frequently defend their choice. In the realm of objective data, Coast Guard complaint and recall statistics reveal that Hunter has a better than average record when it comes to hull blistering. (Hunter offers five-year bottom blister warranty protection for the 23.5.) Clearly, the company is doing something right. The model we inspected (hull #8) showed, with very few exceptions, careful attention to detail and finish work in even the least accessible places-more than youd expect on a $13,500 boat. But it is also a boat with some inherent contradictions, in our opinion.

The 23.5 is a highly engineered product with lots of thoughtful features. Hunter, unlike some builders, constructs a mock-up, followed by a prototype that is extensively tested before final design decisions are made. The hull form is modern looking, almost powerboaty in appearance from some angles. Continuing a tendency evident in recent Hunters, the design team has given the 23.5 a relatively full hull, and raised the freeboard to reduce the cabin height, as well as add room below and keep those up top dry in a chop. Because the cabin extends to the rail (no side decks), you must climb over the cabin top to get to the foredeck.

The rig (a B&R design) consists of a 28-foot Z. Spar mast, fractionally rigged with swept-back spreaders that eliminate the need for a backstay (and make un-stepping/stepping, hence trailering, simpler); for the most part, the uppers are aft of the “after” lowers-until deck level-creating a triangular support system. Main and jib halyards are internal and led back to the cockpit. Power comes from a fully battenedmainsail and 110-percent jib (UK Sailmakers-Hong Kong) with a total of 236 square feet. For steering, the traditional wooden tiller has been replaced with a brushed aluminum tube that arches over the walk-through transom (swim ladder comes standard). The aluminum, said chief designer Rob Mazza, weathers better and is easier to arch in order to keep the rudder low and the tiller sufficiently high. Many helmsmen will use the standard Ronstan X-10 tiller extension.

The water ballast/keel system constitutes the key feature of the 23.5. The water ballast-125 gallons, or 1,000 pounds-takes about two minutes to bring on board. The system is activated by flipping up a lid at the base of the companionway, opening a vent and turning a T-valve; the valve in turn drops a circular stainless steel plate aft of the keel, exposing four holes in the hull. (The plate can then be closed flush.) And while you can’t jettison the water downwind, you can swing up the centerboard to reduce draft to 18 inches. The 4-foot centerboard, controlled by the outboard line to the cockpit, moves easily up and down via a cascade block and tackle arrangement.

The apparent thinking of Hunter engineers was to provide a simple, one-step water ballast system that keeps draft shallow while lowering the center of gravity for added stability and righting moment. The ballast-about 16 cubic feet in volume-lies immediately below the waterline. When the water is added, the boat sinks several inches. Nevertheless, while the water adds 1,000 pounds to the overall displacement, its location does not seem to provide sufficient righting moment for windward work in gusty conditions. On racing boats, water ballast is carried above the waterline and outboard under the settees, which of course provides more righting moment. But this water must be pumped into the chambers and drained before tacking-too complicated for Hunter’s purposes.

Hunter 23.5

Construction of the boat is fairly straightforward, with balsa in the hull and plywood in the deck. The plywood core has the potential to encourage water migration should a deck leak occur at some point. The deck/hull joint, with a roll similar to a Hobie 18-a “modified shoebox,” one Hunter engineer described it-is bonded with glass and further fastened by flathead screws through the rubrail. Stanchions, fastened to aluminum backing plates that are glassed in, are sturdy. Though not a heavily-built boat, the 23 looks solid enough; in the absence of a graceful hull form-no sheer here-Hunter provides some added dash with a smoked forward-facing window and a green and purple hull swoosh graphic, which apparently has drawn strong reaction, pro and con (We liked it). Oddly, there is no waterline or boot scribed in the hull. Perhaps Hunter anticipates owners dry-sailing the 23.5, but the absence of a waterline mark will make bottom painting a difficult chore the first time.

Performance

We test sailed the 23.5 off Newport, Rhode Island. In light-air conditions, the shallow-body, lightweight boat (displacement 3,000 pounds with the water ballast) moved up to speed quickly. The boat pointed high and the few light puffs we experienced produced no noticeable helm. We did have some problem finding a definitive groove, especially after tacking. The boat glided through the water easily on a reach and downwind, with the board up, sped along as much as a 23-footer can (Mazza said it will surf under the right conditions). We moved relatively faster, in fact, than a Nonsuch 27 on the same tack.

In stronger 15-20 knot winds, it is a whole different experience. With a single reef in the mainsail, the boat consistently rounds up and stalls. In addition to the boat’s higher vertical center of gravity, this tendency may also be due to the very high-aspect ratio centerboard, which is generally associated with quick stall characteristics.

Complicating matters is the way the rig and sheeting are set up. With no backstay (or topping lift) and no traveler, and with the main sheeted down and far forward near the companionway, the main and sheet are highly stressed. And because the cam cleat for the mainsheet is down near the cockpit sole, it’s difficult to reach-especially in heavy air on a beat, when the helmsman and everyone else is out on the rail. The rounding up and stalling require constant spilling of the main. This may be okay (if tiring) for the experienced sailor, but a bit strenuous and nerve-wracking for the beginner at whom this boat is marketed.

Instead of a single reef, one solution might be to take a second reef in the main in anything approaching 15 knots, but that’s not much of a solution. With 236 square feet of sail-128 in the main, 108 in the foretriangle-for a sail area-displacement ratio of 18.9, the boat should not be overpowered. (The O’Day 23, of about the same displacement, but with 200 more pounds of ballast, carries 246 square feet)

Another solution, although it breaks up the cockpit, might be a barney post where there’s already a slot for the cockpit table, a system that worked well enough in the Alerion-Express. A traveler would be even better, though obviously Hunter wanted to keep the cockpit clear of obstructions as well as avoid the added cost.

Accommodations

You get a lot for your money with this Hunter model. One thing you get a lot of is interior space or, as company literature describes it, “a 25-foot boat in a 23.5 hull.” The main cabin is sizable and has more headroom than we’ve seen on a 23-footer. A pop-top hatch allows those down below to stand up in the center of the cabin. An optional canvas camper top ($300) provides protection from the elements. Poptops are notoriously leaky, and we can’t vouch for this one’s water tightness; however, Hunter has provided drains all around.

The smoked pop-top, plus three ports per side in the main cabin (two small circles, one longer swoosh-style forward) and the forward-facing window provide plenty of light. Hunter has made no attempt to yacht-up the interior: What you get is a basic cream-colored liner, offset on a portion of the topsides by a close-weave grayish fabric someone called “monkey fur.” Despite the plainness, we liked the clean look of the interior.

Aft to port in the main cabin you get a galley station with a one-burner alcohol stove, sink, and fold-out table with storage below. You won’t be whipping up any Cruising World -style feasts in this galley, but it’s nice to be able to heat up some coffee or a cup of soup. Forward of the galley is a small settee/berth, sized right for a child, with storage beneath and a cutout for a portable ice chest. Opposite is a somewhat longer settee/berth of less than six feet, with more storage and a battery compartment below. On the centerline is a slot for a small table that also can be set up in the cockpit.

There are a number of helpful additions: an automatic bilge pump, access plates underneath the cockpit winches. The portable toilet is located to starboard behind a half-bulkhead and privacy curtain, and under the V-berth. Aside from the standard V-berth in the bow, which seems a bit cramped, there’s a double berth (plus stowage) aft of the main cabin, under the cockpit and seats (not for the claustrophobic). It was back here in the bowels of the boat that we spotted the only untrimmed fiberglass.

On deck, there’s an equally roomy cockpit-7′ 9″ long and 6′ 2″ from coaming to coaming. The relatively wide beam makes the addition of a ridge along the centerline for use as a footrest a welcome touch. Foam padding on the seatbacks is another. A lazaret on either side provides on-deck stowage. There’s a #8 Barient winch on either side of the cabin top, each with an attendant cleat. Lines are meant to be kept in the no-name stoppers to starboard. Because of the profusion of lines led back on the starboard side, we’d prefer an extra cleat and winch.

Nonskid is molded in. The foredeck holds an anchor locker, which also contains a padeye for the stepping/unstepping operation. Skipping the details of this procedure-which involves use of a gin pole, the main and jib halyards and a bridle that controls lateral movement-we’d say that Hunter has devised as easy a way to drop a mast as is possible. Once down, the forward end rests in a U-shaped bend in the bow pulpit, the aft end on a roller-topped pole fitted at the transom.

Conclusions

In its attempt to create a simply operated, easily trailered, entry-level boat at a good price, Hunter has come up with some clever compromises. But they are compromises just the same. The 23.5 sails well on all points in light air; it does well off the wind in heavier air. Windward work over 15 knots in this boat is poor in our estimation. We’d strongly recommend that potential customers thoroughly test sail the boat in a variety of wind conditions, experimenting with one or two reefs, to be certain it’s something they’re able-and willing-to handle.

The Hunter 23.5 is clearly striking a chord with some buyers, and assuming many are entry-level sailors, we think it’s great that this boat is attracting newcomers to the sport. The design represents a clever way of managing the trailering problem (i.e., weight and draft). At the same time, we can’t help but wonder if its behavior in gusty winds is worth the convenience of dumping ballast on the launch ramp.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

excellent article.

Darrell – excellent review. Thanks.

Thanks for the review, I just saw one for sale online.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

The No Expense Spared Antigua 60 Cruising Sailboat Soolaimon video from Practical Sailor

The No Expense Spared Antigua 60 Cruising Sailboat Soolaimon

How To Buy Sails - With Joe Cooper video from Practical Sailor

How To Buy Sails – With Joe Cooper

Bavaria C42: What You Should Know | Boat Tour video from Practical Sailor

Bavaria C42: What You Should Know | Boat Tour

Universal Diesel Engines - What You Should Know video from Practical Sailor

Universal Diesel Engines – What You Should Know

  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell My Personal Information
  • Online Account Activation
  • Privacy Manager

The Hunter 23 is a 23.25ft fractional sloop designed by Hunter Marine and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1985 and 1992.

The Hunter 23 is a light sailboat which is a high performer. It is reasonably stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a racing boat.

Hunter 23 sailboat under sail

Hunter 23 for sale elsewhere on the web:

23 foot hunter sailboat

Main features

Login or register to personnalize this screen.

You will be able to pin external links of your choice.

23 foot hunter sailboat

See how Sailboatlab works in video

23 foot hunter sailboat

We help you build your own hydraulic steering system - Lecomble & Schmitt

Accommodations

Builder data, other photos.

23 foot hunter sailboat

Modal Title

The content of your modal.

Personalize your sailboat data sheet

23 foot hunter sailboat

The Hunter 23 is an American trailerable sailboat, that was designed by Hunter Marine and first built in 1985. The design was built by Hunter Marine in the United States from 1985 and 1992, but it is now out of production.

The Hunter 23 is a small recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim. It has a fractional sloop rig, a raked stem, a reverse transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed wing keel or centerboard. It displaces 2,450 lb (1,111 kg) and carries 800 lb (363 kg) of ballast. The wing keel-equipped version of the boat has a draft of 2.25 ft (0.69 m), while the centerboard-equipped version has a draft of 4.90 ft (1.49 m) with the centerboard extended and 2.0 ft (0.61 m) with it retracted, allowing ground transportation on a trailer.

The boat is normally fitted with a small 3 to 6 hp (2 to 4 kW) outboard motor for docking and maneuvering.

The design has sleeping accommodation for four people, with a double "V"-berth in the bow cabin, and two straight settees in the main cabin that can be converted into a full-wideth double berth. The galley is located on the port side just aft of the companionway ladder. The galley is equipped with a single-burner stove and a sink. The head is located in the bow cabin under the "V"-berth. Cabin headroom is 55 in (140 cm).

The wing keel version has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 258 and low of 226. The centerboard version has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 219 and low of 276. It has a hull speed of 5.93 kn (10.98 km/h).

Source: Wikipedia . Image Credit: Wikipedia

LOA: 23.25 ft LWL: 19.58 ft Beam: 8.00 ft Draft: 2.25 ft Displacement: 2450.00 lbs Ballast: 800.00 lbs Hull type: Wing Keel Hull construction: FG Rigging type: Fractional Sloop

Hunter 23 for sale in the last 12 months

Below you'll find the latest Hunter 23 listings for the last 12 months. We compare the listing price with boats listed in the past and the color coding indicates if the price is good (green = below the average listing price) or more on the expensive side (red = seller is asking more than the average listing price).

Hunter 23 listing prices over time

Listing details.

no photos yet ⛵️

About the hunter 23  .

The Hunter 23 is a small recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim. It has a fractional sloop rig, a raked stem, a reverse transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed wing keel or centerboard. It displaces 2,450 lb (1,111 kg) and carries 800 lb (363 kg) of ballast. The wing keel-equipped version of the boat has a draft of 2.25 ft (0.69 m), while the centreboard-equipped version has a draft of 4.90 ft (1.49 m) with the centreboard extended and 2.0 ft (0.61 m) with it retracted, allowing ground transportation on a trailer. The boat is normally fitted with a small 3 to 6 hp (2 to 4 kW) outboard motor for docking and maneuvering. The design has sleeping accommodation for four people, with a double "V"-berth in the bow cabin, and two straight settees in the main cabin that can be converted into a full-wideth double berth. The galley is located on the port side just aft of the companionway ladder. The galley is equipped with a single-burner stove and a sink. The head is located in the bow cabin under the "V"-berth. Cabin headroom is 55 in (140 cm). The wing keel version has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 258 and low of 226. The centerboard version has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 219 and low of 276. It has a hull speed of 5.93 kn (10.98 km/h).

United States

numberBuilt

2,450 lb (1,111 kg)

2.25 ft (0.69 m)

Hunter Marine

23.25 ft (7.09 m)

19.58 ft (5.97 m)

8.00 ft (2.44 m)

Outboard motor

800 lb (363 kg)

transom-mounted rudder

Rig / Sails

Bermuda rig

125.14 sq ft (11.626 m2)

110.50 sq ft (10.266 m2)

235.64 sq ft (21.892 m2)

26.00 ft (7.92 m)

8.50 ft (2.59 m)

25.67 ft (7.82 m)

9.75 ft (2.97 m)

HUNTER 23 Detailed Review

https://images.harbormoor.com/originals/1705eca8-446b-4cae-a5c7-b9565b51c8b5

If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of HUNTER 23. Built by Hunter Marine (USA) and designed by undefined, the boat was first built in 1985. It has a hull type of Wing Keel and LOA is 7.09. Its sail area/displacement ratio 20.83. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by undefined, runs on undefined.

HUNTER 23 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about HUNTER 23 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, contributions, who builds hunter 23.

HUNTER 23 is built by Hunter Marine (USA).

When was HUNTER 23 first built?

HUNTER 23 was first built in 1985.

How long is HUNTER 23?

HUNTER 23 is 5.97 m in length.

What is mast height on HUNTER 23?

HUNTER 23 has a mast height of 7.82 m.

Member Boats at HarborMoor

23 foot hunter sailboat

Departments

23 foot hunter sailboat

Top Selling Products

23 foot hunter sailboat

  • Copyright 1998-2024 SB Owners, LLC. All rights reserved.

23 foot hunter sailboat

  • Policies | Contact Us

SailNet Community banner

  • Forum Listing
  • Marketplace
  • Advanced Search
  • About The Boat
  • Boat Review Forum
  • SailNet is a forum community dedicated to Sailing enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about sailing, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, repairs, reviews, maintenance, and more!

23 foot hunter sailboat

  • Add to quote

Hi all. Got a lead on a 87 Hunter 23. Fin keel. Heard lots of negative opinions here about both Hunters, and fin keels. Aside from all that, what else would steer me away from a Hunter? Just looking for a decent weekender for Tampa Bay, and maybe trips along the Gulf coast. Thanks, Steve  

23 foot hunter sailboat

It's possibly too late to help you but I'll make a quick response. I purchased a Hunter 23 wing keel last summer, even though I was prejudiced against Hunters from things I'd read. I like mine a lot more than I expected. It handles nicely, no heavy helm, never tried to "round up" while I was sailing. Comes about easily and quickly. Moves well in light airs. Has good sail controls. Lots of nice design touches. Some cheaping out, like portlights with no exterior trim. Excellent interior space and makes good use of it. Surfing down some very large waves from directly astern felt unstable and needed careful attention at the helm, but that is about normal in my experience. An excellent coastal sail boat. Built light for trailering and mast stepping. The light mast has a hinged tabernacle and drops toward the stern, fairly easy to step and unstep with gin pole and sway control - hook a block to the mooring pin, and run line back to the winches in the cockpit. The "Ken's Trailer" trailer is not well fitted to the boat, at least not mine. Make sure you get a trailer with either brakes or a square plate at the ends of the axle by the wheel where brakes can be added. Make sure the boat is tight against the bow stops. There should be support under the bow, mine was too short so I shimmed it with wood. I'm half done making an extension for it. I should probably write a review in the Hunter section, so anyone can find the info.  

23 foot hunter sailboat

I'm surprised this post didn't get more replies. Hunters seem to have a bad reputation because, apparently, in the late 80's and early 90's, some of their boats weren't well made. By that, I mean they didn't sail well, and the equipment was either undersized or inexpensive components that were prone to fail. However, the "Cherubini-erea" Hunters, and some of the more recent ones, consistent get positive reviews. They aren't typically seen as ocean-crossers (especially the smaller boats), but they are good for their purpose, coastal sailing. Are they made to the same standards as an Island Packet? No. But you'll pay a lot less, and still have a sailboat that gets you from Point A to many Point B's. It's kind of like a car - if you buy a Honda Civic, you know you're not going to get the same "stuff" as in a Maybach or even a Lexis. What you will get, though, is a decent car at a fair price, and it will get you from Point A to Point B. You may not get there as fast, and you may not be as comfortable when you get there as you would have in another vessel/vehicle, but, in most peoples' opinions, that's still beats walking, or never getting to Point B at all.  

23 foot hunter sailboat

Hello - I bought a Hunter 23' wing keel that had been sitting in a yard for 10+ years. Sails are shot, and running rigging is toast. Is anyone able to help with what line does what? Is there a site explaining the line functions? She has a mast and port/starboard cockpit winches, but I have no idea how it all works. I sail a Montego 19, she's very basic and was in sailing condition when I bought her. I'm a year into sailing, and I want to get the Hunter going so I can sell the Montego, but I'm stalled out. Thanks!  

23 foot hunter sailboat

Clarks Hill Windbag said: Hello - I bought a Hunter 23' wing keel that had been sitting in a yard for 10+ years. Sails are shot, and running rigging is toast. Is anyone able to help with what line does what? Is there a site explaining the line functions? She has a mast and port/starboard cockpit winches, but I have no idea how it all works. I sail a Montego 19, she's very basic and was in sailing condition when I bought her. I'm a year into sailing, and I want to get the Hunter going so I can sell the Montego, but I'm stalled out. Thanks! Click to expand...

I had a H23 and loved it! It just wasn't the size I really wanted. The H23 is a real sailboat. It's not a bad boat either. Only issues I had were the need to backplate the outboard mount, and the mast was difficult for 2 people to handle.  

Clarks Hill Windbag said: ...Thanks - I get "halyards" but this boat has a roller furl jib, and 3 small lines in the boom (Outhaul, ???,???). It looks like it had lazyjacks? from the odd small lines with knots on either side of the main. I just have no clue how it was originally rigged. Click to expand...

there was an out haul yes. most likely reefing lines. in the boom. Launching our Hunter 23 for Spring 2013! - YouTube Some good close ups here.  

I bought a hunter 23 last fall. It is of the fixed wing keel design. I paid $2600. My previous boat was a Hobie18, and I sail in Lake Michigan. Even with 4 years of sailing hobie cats(2) & sunfish. I can't really compare. However I will tell you what I know after sailing about 10-15 times this year including my first race. The boat heels easy, but when it does it feels safe. I had 3 experienced sailers tell me its a good boat at good deal. They both all "more serious" boats, Erikson 27 & 35 foot racing boat, & 35 foot center cockpit cruiser. All have sailed many years(some 15) so there opinion was sound. Below are just minor stuff to look out for. None of them made me regret buying it. The trailer is minimal. Some dont' have rollers under the bow. This is a necessity. Otherwise it puts all the bow weight on the kiel and lots of friction to winch up. Not easy to launch. I had to add an 8' extender. When putting the mast down it will hit the hatch lid before tilted all the way down. Best to unsrcrew the white hatch from the hinges. The marina tech told me its a trademark of these boats to see hatch pinch damage here. My mast has more backward rake then most boats at marina when walking down docks. This is a function of the fiberglass molding. Don't be alarmed or try to overcorrect. if you try to pull it too far forward you are pulling on the base step. The swept back spreaders are crappy design in terms of the sail hits them when sheeted out. The interior is very nice. Very large for what it looks like outside. Add a plate or rot resistant backer behind the outboard bracket and rudder bolts. Factory stuff is not sufficient and stress cracks will develop. Replace lights with LED. The "O" & point bulbs don't make good contact. Especialy on the mast where its difficult to get at. Don't think pulleys on top are robust enough for bosuns chair. Some of the keel bolts they cheated and used steel & are rusty but no leaks and solid hull. Great first sailboat. Wouldn't sail across Lake Michigan. Wouldn't sail in over 20knot gusts. But fine for daysailing or 7-20 mile away overnights. The electrical switches are very long and break off if you hit them exiting/entering the cabin. Make sure you get the longest shaft motor or check mout height if adjustable as it cavitates in waves coming into the harbor. My motor mount hits the prop if outboard is turned extreme left and rudder extreme right. PO added aftermarket motor mount- the original failed or wasn't good enough.  

I agree with skygazer. The pdf hunter 23 manual also "vaugely" shows the "quick" reefing system for the foot of the 1st reef grommet. The description below is much better. This is a tangent... but maybe helpful to someone... when I bought the boat all the lines had been pulled out of the boom except the SS wire outhaul for the foot of the sail. I especially wanted the reef line restored. Getting the line through the boom looked tricky at first glance. You have two small holes at each end & 9 feet of hollow between. My boom caps were screwed on with SS bolts(glad not riveted) so I took off both ends. Then I and straightened, flattened & twisted together 3 steel coat-hangers together & electrical taped the 1/4 line around the end & use the hanger snake to feed the wire through the 8-9 foot length. If you have a real wire snake use that. On the mast end, make sure you thread the rope above the cam clamp, over the top of the pulley and down the pulley toward the mast. If there's nothing to compare it to its not obvious. The hole above the clamp where the line goes into the boom is not visible  

I got one as my first boat with little to no experience on a lake with regular 25-40 knot winds. I have made some substantial sailing mistakes and haven't demasted or sunk it yet. Sure have learned a lot about how to not sail though.  

  • ?            
  • 174.5K members

Top Contributors this Month

23 foot hunter sailboat

Home > Find Your Sail > Search by Make and Model > Hunter > Hunter 23

" * " indicates required fields

Step 1 of 3

Let's Get to Know Each Other

Let's connect, hunter 23 sailboat.

The Hunter 23 is an American trailerable sailboat designed by Hunter Marine and was first built in 1985. The production started in 1982 and continued till 1992, but it then went out of production.

23 foot hunter sailboat

About the Hunter 23

Hunter 23 is mainly used as a recreational keelboat, and it is built primarily of fiberglass and has wood trim. The build consists of a raked stem, reverse transom, fractional sloop rig, and a transom hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed-wing keel or centerboard.

23 foot hunter sailboat

This centered board equipped version has a draft of 4.90 ft (1.49m) with centerboard extended and 2.0 ft (0.61 m) with it retraced. The wing keel equipped version of the boat has a draft of 2.25 ft (0.69 m), and it allows the ground transportation on a trailer. The Hunter 23 displaces 800 lb (363 kg). It has a mainsail area of 125.14 sq ft (11.626 m2), and jib/genoa area of 110.50 sq ft (10.266 m2).

An outboard motor is usually fitted in the boat for maneuvering and docking. The wing keel version of Hunter 23 has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 258 and a low of 226. The centerboard version has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high till 219 and lows till 276. The hull speed of Hunter 23 is 5.93 kn (10.98 km/h).

Request a Hunter 23 Quote

Looking to buy a new headsail or mainsail for your Hunter 23? Request a free quote from Precision Sails for a new custom sail. Our team will work with you to design the perfect sail for you.

Thanks for telling us a bit about yourself and your boat. Our team will send you a preliminary quote based on information we have gathered from sailors similar to you.

We will give you a call in order to narrow down the options on your quote and improve the accuracy. If you want us to call you at a specific time, feel free to schedule a time on our calendar!

Thanks for telling us a bit about yourself and your boat. Our team will reach out to offer some suggestions and get started on finding you the perfect sail!

  • Sign In or Register
  • Boats for Sale
  • Research Boats
  • Sell a Boat
  • Search Alerts
  • My Listings
  • Account Settings
  • Dealer Advertising
  • Hunter 23 Sailboat

23 foot hunter sailboat

Hunter 23 Sailboat Boats for sale

1986 Hunter 23 Sailboat

1986 Hunter 23 Sailboat

Charleston, South Carolina

Make Hunter

Length 23.0

Posted Over 1 Month

This is a great trailerable sailboat that is ready to sail today. The boat comes with a two sets of sails, one of which is like new. The trailer is ready to roll, and the 4hp Mercury outboard runs like well. All the cushions in the boat are in good shape. The running and standing rigging is complete and in good shape. There are no electronics, but the electrical system in the boat is in working order. The boat could use some bottom paint but is sail-able as is.

1985 Hunter 23'  sailboat

1985 Hunter 23' sailboat

Littleton, Colorado

Category Daysailer Sailboats

This 1985 Hunter 23 is in almost "Bristol" condition. The headsail is one seasonold from North. The main sail has two seasons use and is also from North. Both sails are tri-radial. The headsail has roller furling. The main sail has a "Dutchman" flaking system. This makes sail handling very easy. You can raise and lower the mainsail from the cockpit. There is a cruising spinnaker that furls up. The primary winches are 2 speed. There a 2 anchors. There is a 55 watt solar panel with a controller to keep the battery charged. All the wood is in beautiful condition (inside and out). Everything is easy to operate and in first class condition. the boat is amply powered by a 2008 2HP Honda 4 stroke engine. The boat is at Chatfield. I am only selling this boat because I bought a cruising boat on the east coast.”

Hunter 23' Sailboat 1987

Hunter 23' Sailboat 1987

Oceanside, New York

Model Hunter

The boat is in great condition,was a sweet water boat,sail only used one season,cut to off shore sailing.Includes marine radio,regular radio with cassette.Has Fixed keel 23",Cast iron.Trailer included.No engine.mast height 33',ballast 800lbs.Headroom 4'7". sail area 235.5 sq.ft.

Hunter 23.5 weekender sailboat with trailer. Solid condition. Many extras.

Hunter 23.5 weekender sailboat with trailer. Solid condition. Many extras.

Pensacola, Florida

Length 23.5

This Hunter 23.5 is in good condition. Lots of new extras, including high performance rudder, Raymarine A3 series gps/chart plotter, bimini top, roller reef genoa and like new bottom paint. The boat has lived on an lift since I purchased it 2012. Selling because of health issues.

23'5 Hunter Sailboat 1995

23'5 Hunter Sailboat 1995

Beaufort, South Carolina

Call Boat Owner Hank 843-473-0993. Coast guard pack, 3 berths, cooler, alcohol stove, single axle trailer, battery, sleeps 5, original owner, prof maintained, winter cover, new upholstery, many extras

Ringgold, Georgia

2013/ 1986 Hunter 23 sailboat.

2013/ 1986 Hunter 23 sailboat.

Madison, Mississippi

2013/ 1986 hunter 23 sailboat. comes with new 6 hp. mercury 4 stroke with less than one hr. on it. custom trailer, fresh paint. fresh exterior and interior, poti potty, sink, stove. boat shows as new call Charlotte 601-850-9443

2013/ 1986 Hunter 23 sailboat.

1986 Hunter 23' with new Sails Mercury outboard

Ridgeland, South Carolina

1986 Hunter 23 Sailboat Great boat, Great for river & bay sailing LOA23' 3 inLWL19' 7 inBeam8'Draft2' 3 inDisplacement2450 lbsBallast800 lbsSail Area235.5 sq ft (21.88 m2)Mast Height33'Water Capacity6 gal https://youtu.be/EK2WxUOyQxQ A DEPOSIT OF $500.00 IS REQUIRED AT END OF AUCTION NEW SAILS, NEW HARDWARE, TRAILER IN GOOD SHAPE, READY FOR THE WATER

1995 Hunter 336 Sailboat with Trailer also Available

1995 Hunter 336 Sailboat with Trailer also Available

Ketchum, Oklahoma

Category Cruiser Motorcycles

Length 34.0

This Boat is in excellent condition and has been in freshwater on Grand Lake in Oklahoma all its life. It is powered by a 27 HP Yenmar diesel with low hours. A RayMarine Evolution EV1 autopolit with an S10 remote control has just been installed this spring. It also has the following:New Toliet, All New Factory Canvas Covers including, Sail Cover, Sun protective shades for all overhead portalites, Wheel Console cover, Winch covers, New Factory Sunbrella Double Bimini Canvas, Marine central air conditioning, New marine radio, Magma Grill, A new set of Bottom Siders Cockpit cushions, new bluetooth sound system/ FM stereo, new batteries, new battery charger. This boat is tagged until 2017 and is Coast Guard Documented.A 23,000 lb capacity triple axel sailboat trailer is also available for an additional 6000 dollars.

Hunter 28.5 Sailboat. Freshwater. Freshly renovated. Turn-key.

Hunter 28.5 Sailboat. Freshwater. Freshly renovated. Turn-key.

Chaumont, New York

Length 28.4

Newly renovated 1986 Hunter 28.5 Sloop. This is a wonderful yacht which has been updated and restored for years of luxurious service! She has been set up as a beautiful cruiser but still has serious Sunday racer bones! B&R rigged with a brand new CDI FF7 Ball Bearing Flexible Furler. 150% Genoa in excellent condition. Mainsail is crisp and also in excellent condition! Builder: Hunter Designer: Hunter Design Group Keel: Fin Dimensions LOA: 28 ft 4 in Beam: 10 ft 6 in LWL: 23 ft 9 in Maximum Draft: 5 ft 2 in Displacement: 7000 lbs Ballast: 3000 lbs Engine 1: Engine Brand: Yanmar Year Built: 1986 Engine Model: 2 Engine Type: Inboard Engine/Fuel Type: Diesel Propeller: 2 blade propeller Engine Power: 16 HP Cruising Speed: 6 mph Tanks Fresh Water Tanks: (30 Gallons) Fuel Tanks: (11 Gallons) Holding Tanks: (10 Gallons) Accommodations The open interior plan has a vee berth forward of the U-shaped dinette. The galley is aft to port and aft to starboard is a nav table and enclosed head compartment with hot and cold shower, marine toilet and vanity. Furthest aft is a private cabin that sleeps two. The sole is trimmed in bamboo. There are numerous storage bins and a hanging locker. Options New CDI FF7 Genoa Furler New Raymarine Depth and Knot meter. New Pioneer Stereo with speakers both in salon and cockpit. New VHF Radio New 19" flat-screen TV New cabin cushions throughout New single-burner alcohol stove DVD Player Renovation work done: All engine/drivetrain components inspected and serviced with parts replaced as needed Fuel tank drained and cleaned All filters replaced All hoses inspected and replaced as needed All bulkheads repaired or replaced as needed All through-hulls inspected and/or replaced All wiring inspected and replaced as needed All plumbing inspected and repaired/replaced as needed All fixtures inspected and repaired/replaced as needed Brand new Marine Plywood cabin sole with bamboo finish to brighten interior Brand new countertops in Galley and Head Pressurized water pump re-built and system checked Bilge pump and float switch inspected and cleaned Sail locker re-built All wood sanded, stained and varnished Hatch seals inspected and repaired as necessary Hull buffed and waxed Freshly bottom painted Also included: Various lines Fenders Life jackets Galley accoutrements including silverware Cradle This boat has normal wear and tear as would be expected. Hunter "smile" just professionally repaired with westsystem. Previous owner left hatch open over winter. Interior completely rebuilt. This boat is turn-key but has not been personalized yet. Here is your opportunity to get a boat in ready to sail condition at a fraction of what it would cost to buy new! The best part being that you don't have to live with someone else's questionable decorating prowess or dated cushions, fixtures, etc. Schedule your appointment to see her today. She will not last long!

1987 Hunter Sailboat

1987 Hunter Sailboat

Liverpool, New York

1987 Hunter sailboat 23'6" with galvanized trailer and a few very nice and convenient add ons such as a t. keel roller furlin five horse Suzuki motor. This boat sails like new! Interior is in excellent condition this boat was very well cared for and has been owned and maintained by a true enthusiast. It comes with a two burner stove a chemical portable toilet and many accessories such as life jackets lines and much more! The boat sleeps six and is ready for fun with the family or entertaining company! All you will need to supply is a crew for the season to enjoy this beautiful boat. It is priced to move with the spring upon us it will not last!

1996 Hunter 23.5

1996 Hunter 23.5

Wichita, Kansas

1996 Hunter 23.5,I am the 2nd owner of this boat. She is kept super clean inside and out. Everything works.Stainless steel stern rail chairs, 150% Main, jib, storm jib, sink, alcohol stove, life jackets, deck mounted compass, ice chest, windex, too much to list.Honda 4 Cycle motor - starts on first pull OR can use electric start. Battery included for owners choice.Trailer included, 95+% left on tires, less than a year old, spare included. Boat sails really nice. Easy to single hand. Also - the mast is best if stepped by one person and takes 5 - 10 minutes. Huge cockpit to place the whole family. Bow quarters with nice cushions below. Bench seats and stern sleeping section. A new job, our family schedule, and activities are keeping us too busy to enjoy this sailboat. The boat is ready to sail. 316.243.7688 $9300

1994 Hunter 23.5

1994 Hunter 23.5

Indianapolis, Indiana

Category Sailboats

1994 Hunter 23.5 Trailerability, comfort, quality and fun are the key components in the Hunter 23.5, a sailboat that does so much, so well. A water ballast system is central to the 23.5's ability to be easily trailered, and yet able to sail. Additionally, the swing centerboard brings her minimum draft to only 18 inches for almost limitless gunkholing. The unique raising system allows singlehanded rigging and reduced launch times. The 23.5 has a large cockpit with centerboard controls and running rigging led aft for shorthanded sailing comfort and safety. Below is a spacious cabin with two double berths, convertible settees, a functional galley, and portable head tucked under the forward berth. There is excellent sitting headroom, plus standing headroom when the seahood is raised. Additionally, a functional galley, dining table, private head, and generous sleeping berths maximize the comfort and pleasure in your sailing vacations. Also, the dining table is designed to fit in the cockpit, enhancing the best seating area - the great outdoors. Discover the fresh thinking and attention to detail in the 23.5. Easy to sail, easy to trailer, and fun to own.

1986 Hunter 28.5 Sailboat, shoal draft, ready to daysailing or coastal cruising!

1986 Hunter 28.5 Sailboat, shoal draft, ready to daysailing or coastal cruising!

Jacksonville, Florida

Length 28.5

Riversong is a 1986 Hunter 28.5’ shoal draft sailboat that is ready for day sailing or extended coastal cruising! She has a very well appointed cockpit with a Raymarine ST6002 wheel autopilot, Raymarine e7 touchscreen chart plotter with wifi, Rule Aqua compass, and more. The bimini and dodger will keep you shaded from the sun and have zip in sections to keep you dry when it rains. Swing out speaker so you can listen to music while you swim and a ladder to get you back on-board. She has an anchor with plenty of rode to keep you in place. Down below you will find a full galley with stainless sink, alcohol 2 burner stove, cooler, microwave, 1000 watt inverter, and huge dual voltage refrigerator. The salon features fold out table, seating for 6, a television with boosted antenna, dvd player, am/fm cd player with bluetooth. She can sleep 4 comfortably (2 in the v-berth and 2 in the quarter berth), or 6 if you use the salon benches. The rear quarter berth has a hanging closet and drawers. There is tons of storage everywhere. The bathroom has a sink, shower (with hot water heater), and an electric flush head. There is a big hanging closet in the head as well. There’s even a wine rack under the v-berth for storing the most important of provisions. You can enjoy all of this in the nice cool air-conditioning provided by the on-board Mermaid A/C unit. Her sails are in great shape. She comes with a main sail (with 2 reefing points) and roller furl working jib (130%). The main sheet, main halyard, and topping life were replaced in 2014. The winches are 2 speed and in great shape. She also has whisker and spinnaker poles, but no sails to go with them. Her iron jib is a Yanmar 2GM20F in great shape. The fuel pump and starter were just replaced in 2014. The house battery is also brand new, as is the dual battery charging system. She comes with many other little things like a handheld VHF radio, extra winch handles, extra line, 30 amp shore cable, hoses, etc. I will have her bottom cleaned prior to taking delivery. Below are the detailed physical specifications: Hull Type: Fin w/spade rudderRig Type: B&RLOA: 28.42' / 8.66mLWL: 23.75' / 7.24mBeam: 10.50' / 3.20mListed SA: 398 ft2 / 36.97 m2Draft (max.) 5.18' / 1.58mDraft (min.) Disp. 7000 lbs./ 3175 kgs.Ballast: 3000 lbs. / 1361 kgs.SA/Disp.: 17.46Bal./Disp.: 42.87%Disp./Len.: 233.27Designer: Hunter DesignBuilder: Hunter Marine (USA)Construct.: FGBal. type: First Built: 1985Last Built: 1988# Built: TANKSWater: 27 gals. / 102 ltrs.Fuel: 11 gals. / 42 ltrs.RIG DIMENSIONS KEYI(IG): 37.33' / 11.38mJ: 12.08' / 3.68mP: 31.75' / 9.68mE: 10.83' / 3.30mPY: EY: SPL/TPS: ISP: SA(Fore.): 225.47 ft2 / 20.95 m2SA(Main): 171.93 ft2 / 15.97 m2Total(calc.)SA: 397.40 ft2 / 36.92 m2DL ratio: 233.27SA/Disp: 17.43Est. Forestay Len.: 39.24' / 11.96mMast Height from DWL: 41.25' / 12.57mBUILDERS (past & present)More about & boats built by: Hunter Marine (USA)NOTESShoal draft: 4'/1.21m

Narrow Results

Current search reset all.

  • Keyword: hunter 23 sailboat
  • Hunter (13)
  • Hunter Marine (1)
  • Marlow-Hunter (1)
  • Northwind (1)
  • Cruiser Motorcycles (4)
  • Sailboats (2)
  • Cruiser Sailboats (1)
  • Daysailer Sailboats (1)
  • Florida (5)
  • New York (4)
  • South Carolina (3)
  • Indiana (2)
  • Mississippi (2)
  • Arizona (1)
  • California (1)
  • Colorado (1)
  • Georgia (1)
  • Maryland (1)
  • New Jersey (1)
  • Oklahoma (1)
  • Washington (1)
  • Search Title Only
  • Has Picture
  • Include Sold Listings

Showcase Ads

2005 Contender 21 contender

2005 Contender 21 contender

Boca Raton, FL

2008 Sea Ray 260 Sundancer

2008 Sea Ray 260 Sundancer

2012 MasterCraft X25

2012 MasterCraft X25

Zionsville, IN

2017 Crownline E4

2017 Crownline E4

North Perry, OH

default_ad

2017 Robalo R180

Gainesville, GA

2009 Cobalt Boats 302

Asheville, NC

2019 Sea Fox Legacy 21 CC

2019 Sea Fox Legacy 21 CC

Kenneth City, FL

Create Alert

Please, name this search

Select Interval

Alert Successfully Created

Sailboat Owners Forums

  • Forums New posts Unanswered threads Register Top Posts Email
  • What's new New posts New Posts (legacy) Latest activity New media
  • Media New media New comments
  • Boat Info Downloads Weekly Quiz Topic FAQ 10000boatnames.com
  • Classifieds Sell Your Boat Used Gear for Sale
  • Parts General Marine Parts Hunter Beneteau Catalina MacGregor Oday
  • Help Terms of Use Monday Mail Subscribe Monday Mail Unsubscribe

new owner - Sail options for Hunter 23.5?

  • Thread starter Dfed
  • Start date Dec 5, 2016
  • Tags hunter 23.5
  • Hunter Owner Forums
  • Smaller Boats

I am looking at buying new sails for my recently acquired 1996 Hunter 23.5. We do lake sailing, light air under 12 knots typical, but are only 3 hours from the Carolina coast so there's potential for coastal sailing. I'm considering a loose footed mainsail so I can get better shape in light air. I had one on my last boat (an S2 7.3) that I raced, and was happy with the boats performance if not my own. Is anyone flying a loose foot mainsail on their 23.5? What are the pros and cons to consider? Also looking at a new roller furling headsail to replace my jib. The way this is boat is rigged, I don't see how I could really fly much more than a 110. I seem to recall a discussion on this forum that said that the 23.5 can't fly a genoa. Is this correct? Finally, this boat did not come with a spinnaker. The owners manual shows a symmetrical rig, but some sailmakers are including asymmetricals in their list of options. Is anyone flying an asym on a 23.5? Have you installed a bow sprit? Regards  

shemandr

Although I've posted a lot for sailing with good shaped sails, I do think it's wise to sail your boat for a season or so to learn what you would like to have for a new sail plan. It's probably not something someone can tell you due to local conditions, your own taste in sailing and how you are going to use the boat. It is possible that you may decide that this boat doesn't meet your expectations (Maybe nothing to do with its sailing characteristics), and you may want to move on. You most likely won't see the money for new sails come back.  

DayDreamer41

DayDreamer41

I like the advise by shemandr, the Hunter SA have a large main compared to the jib I would play around with that and see what you like, with the B&R rig it will restrict how far you can let the main out as the spreaders are swept back. The main is approximately 2/3's of your SA, so a big jib is not advisable, would be too easy to overpower the boat.  

If you need a mainsail, check the used gear classifieds on this site- look in the the gear wanted list, not the for sale list. There is a post to sell a like new 23.5 main- coastal cruise version by Peak Sails, used once (they posted it in the wrong category). If it would fit my 240 I would already have it!  

Crazy Dave Condon

DFED; The 23.5 was designed so it will only accommodate a 110 jib. The next sail for light air is an A symmetrical spinnaker. As for the main, it is larger than a normal standard main as the boat which Hunter was putting more power in the main. Combined with both sails, in a sense, you have a standard main and a 140 % genoa total area. I suggest wait a year and then rethink a foot loose main but in the years as a dealer for the 23.5 with nearly 25% of the production sold, never sold a foot loose main in all my years for the 23.5. As for roller furling, I went with the CDI FF2 as you can leave the sail rolled up and lower/raise the mast if you are going to trailer a lot. Think of it this way. You are at the end of the day in a hot sun tired and want to go home. the less time to prep a boat to go home is the way I look at gear on a trailerable boat.  

Barnacle Bill

The 23.5 has a fractional rig (the forestay doesn't go all the way up to the top of the mast), which means your headsails will be smaller and the mainsail larger. A masthead rig, where the forestay goes to the top of the mast usually has larger headsails and smaller mainsails. The fractional rig is nice because handling headsails through tacks, etc. is much easier and more of the horsepower is employed in the mainsail. Often this type of rig allows the boat to be well balanced so you can sail with the main alone - not using the jib at all. The best information you can get, covering your questions, should be asked to a local sailmaker. First of all, they will, if good at what they do, suggest a sail inventory that matched the area that you sail and the type of sailing you wish to do. The sails can be built to suit. I have sailed (and owned) boats with loose footed mains and no problem. Might save some money to boot because the sailmaker doesn't have to put in a lens foot, or a foot with a bolt rope, slugs, etc. Roller furling is a good idea as then you can roll up the sail from the cockpit and never have to go forward to deal with it, bag it and take up space below to stow the thing. A sailmaker will build a sail designed for furling (they need to know the make) and can build in a luff designed for reefing to maintain decent sail shape. CDI is not a reefing furling unit, but the Schaefer Snap Furl is. Both have flexible extrusions which is grand for trailerable boats. The CDI uses their own halyard system incorporated into the luff extrusion, the Snap Furl uses your existing halyards. Both work well, but the halyard differences might conclude your decision.  

Barnacle Bill. You need to explain " CDI is not a reefing furling unit, but the Schaefer Snap Furl is." You are confusing one is not and the other is. One of the other small boat furlers are two halves that the early version use to move causing problems. The CDI referenced is a single extrusion which does furl but the max sail on this boat for a jib is a 110 and that will be fine. The idea that it has it own internal halyard leaves the boat jib halyard for lowering and raising the mast alone. I found this is good if trailering a lot as you can leave the sail furled on the furler and the fact it can be laid down bending if necessary is a plus when at the end of the day you are hot and tired and the less time to pack up a boat to prepare trailering home is something to think about. Not sure why this is not considered a reefing furler like the other mentioned. Just waiting for a response.  

  • This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…

23 foot hunter sailboat

Sign up for an account

Already have an account? Log in

Login to continue

Don't have an account yet? Sign Up

Forgot your password?

Log in | Sign Up

Hunter sailboats for sale

  • Sailboat Listings
  • Catalina (32)
  • Pearson (25)
  • Hunter (24)
  • Beneteau (18)
  • O'Day (14)
  • C&C (12)
  • Macgregor (12)
  • Morgan (11)
  • Custom (11)
  • Capital Yachts (10)
  • Hobie Cat (9)
  • Island Packet (8)
  • Pacific Seacraft (8)
  • J Boats (6)
  • American (6)
  • Bristol (5)
  • Cape Dory (5)
  • Jeanneau (5)
  • Precision (5)
  • Bavaria (5)
  • Watkins (4)
  • Islander (4)
  • Hans Christian (4)
  • Cheoy Lee (4)
  • Sparkman & Stephens (3)
  • Passport (3)
  • Westerly (3)
  • Young Sun (3)
  • Performance Cruising (3)
  • Van de Stadt (3)
  • General Boats (3)
  • Formosa (3)
  • Ericson (3)
  • Coronado (3)
  • Canadian Sailcraft (2)
  • West Wight Potter (2)
  • Colin Archer (2)
  • Freedom (2)
  • Challenger (2)
  • Bayfield (2)
  • Leopard (2)
  • Westsail (2)
  • Camper Nicholsons (1)
  • Sea Eagle (1)
  • Force 5 (1)
  • Flying Scot (1)
  • Sovereign (1)
  • Intrepid (1)
  • Dragonfly (1)
  • Sailboat Trailer (1)
  • Ontario (1)
  • Windrider (1)
  • Columbia (1)
  • Nautor Swan (1)
  • Endurance (1)
  • Wellington (1)
  • Hallberg Rassy (1)
  • Caliber (1)
  • Vagabond (1)
  • Stevens (1)
  • Wauquiez (1)
  • Ron Holland Gibbs Marine (1)
  • Farrier (1)
  • Contest (1)
  • Seidelmann (1)
  • Gulfstar (1)
  • Cascade (1)
  • Palmer Johnson (1)
  • Endeavour (1)
  • Admiral (1)
  • Nauticat (1)
  • Durbeck (1)
  • Seafarer (1)
  • Corsair (1)
  • Soverel (1)
  • Ta Shing (1)
  • Bruce Roberts (1)
  • Southern Cross (1)
  • Lord Nelson (1)
  • Ocean Cruising (1)
  • Downeaster (1)
  • Peterson (1)
  • United States (349)
  • Canada (15)
  • Caribbean (15)
  • Mexico (14)
  • French Polynesia (3)
  • Colombia (2)
  • Guatemala (2)
  • Belgium (1)
  • Germany (1)
  • Portugal (1)
  • Croatia (1)

24 listings found

  • Featured First
  • Price: Low to High
  • Price: High to Low
  • Year: Oldest to Newest
  • Year: Newest to Oldest
  • Length: Short to Long
  • Length: Long to Short
  • Date Added: Newest
  • Date Added: Oldest
  • Recently Sold

1995 Hunter 23.5 | SuzyQ

1995 Hunter 23.5 | SuzyQ Amherst, Ohio, United States

1992 Hunter 42 | Wahoo

1992 Hunter 42 | Wahoo Anse aux pines, Grenada, Caribbean

1988 Hunter 23 | Smurfette

1988 Hunter 23 | Smurfette Murrayville, Georgia, United States

1982 Hunter 30

1982 Hunter 30 Arcadia, Michigan, United States

1986 Hunter 34 | My Redeemer

1986 Hunter 34 | My Redeemer Jaffrey, New Hampshire, United States

1995 Hunter 26

1995 Hunter 26 West Palm Beach, Florida, United States

Looking to sell your sailboat.

Post your sailboat for free and find a buyer.

1991 Hunter 43 | Motivation

1991 Hunter 43 | Motivation North Miami, Florida, United States

1985 Hunter 31 | Shambles

1985 Hunter 31 | Shambles Branford, Connecticut, United States

1993 Hunter 40 | EL  CANA

1993 Hunter 40 | EL CANA Miami, Florida, United States

2004 Hunter 27 | Rose inn

2004 Hunter 27 | Rose inn Apollo Beach, Florida, United States

1989 Hunter 37.5 | Intuition

1989 Hunter 37.5 | Intuition San Diego, California, United States

1980 Hunter 30 | Sea Hawk

1980 Hunter 30 | Sea Hawk Stockton, Missouri, United States

1983 Hunter 34 | Into the Mystic

1983 Hunter 34 | Into the Mystic Chicago, Illinois, United States

1993 Hunter 19 | Sea sun [SOLD]

1993 Hunter 19 | Sea sun [SOLD] Round Rock, Texas, United States

1997 Hunter 40 | Last Retreat

1997 Hunter 40 | Last Retreat Warwick, Rhode Island, United States

2004 Hunter 41 | Margaret

2004 Hunter 41 | Margaret Key West, Florida, United States

1980 Hunter 30 | Naysayer

1980 Hunter 30 | Naysayer Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

2002 Hunter 26

2002 Hunter 26 Lacey Township, New Jersey, United States

1983 Hunter 34

1983 Hunter 34 West Palm Beach, Florida, United States

2012 Hunter 50 | Pending

2012 Hunter 50 | Pending St. Augustine, Florida, United States

1983 Hunter 30 | Delight

1983 Hunter 30 | Delight Sandusky, Ohio, United States

1992 Hunter 34 | RYTHM AND BLUE

1992 Hunter 34 | RYTHM AND BLUE Fernadina Beach , Florida, United States

1985 Hunter 25 | Altair

1985 Hunter 25 | Altair Hudson, Minnesota, United States

1999 Hunter 43 | Anythings Possible

1999 Hunter 43 | Anythings Possible New Port Richey, Florida, United States

IMAGES

  1. Hunter 23 sailboat for sale

    23 foot hunter sailboat

  2. 1994 Hunter 23.5 sailboat for sale in Wisconsin

    23 foot hunter sailboat

  3. The 27

    23 foot hunter sailboat

  4. 1984 Hunter 22' Sloop sailboat for sale in Virginia

    23 foot hunter sailboat

  5. Hunter 33 sailboat for sale

    23 foot hunter sailboat

  6. 2007 Hunter 49 Sail Boat For Sale

    23 foot hunter sailboat

VIDEO

  1. 2023 SeaHunter 28 Floridian initial sea trial powered by twin Yamaha 300

  2. Hunter 23 restoration project

  3. Caribbean Sailing, First Video in a Hunter 23.5

  4. Hunter 23.5 2nd reef "tamed the tiger"

  5. Hunter 45cc Sailboat Haul out for survey By: Ian Van Tuyl

  6. 2023 SeaHunter 28 Floridian powered by twin Yamaha 300 [Delivery Day] #SeaHunterBoats

COMMENTS

  1. Hunter 23 Sail

    High Quality Cruising Sails At Low Prices | Industry Leading Sail Design. Save Up To 30% On New Sails. Request A Quote

  2. Hunter Sailboat on ebay

    Free Shipping Available. Buy on ebay. Money Back Guarantee!

  3. HUNTER 23

    Discount Sails-Hunter_23. Electric Yacht. New Rudders. ... METRIC. Sailboat Specifications Definitions Hull Type: Wing Keel: Rigging Type: Fractional Sloop: LOA: 23.25 ft / 7.09 m: ... Camden, Maine, 1997), states that a boat with a BN of less than 1.3 will be slow in light winds. A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed ...

  4. Hunter 23 boats for sale

    Find Hunter 23 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Hunter boats to choose from.

  5. Hunter 23

    Hunter 23 is a 23′ 3″ / 7.1 m monohull sailboat designed by Hunter Marine and built by Hunter Marine between 1985 and 1992. Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

  6. Hunter 23

    Hunter 23. The Hunter 23 is a small recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim. It has a fractional sloop rig, a raked stem, a reverse transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed wing keel or centerboard. It displaces 2,450 lb (1,111 kg) and carries 800 lb (363 kg) of ballast.

  7. Hunter 23.5

    Hunter Marine Corp. is noted for its slick, innovative and low-cost mass production sailers. The Hunter 23.5, new in 1992, fits the bill in all respects. The 23.5 was designed as a trailerable family cruiser for entry-level sailors. Like most Hunters, the boat offers lots of space in the cockpit and down below, and comes with the famous Cruise ...

  8. Hunter 23

    The Hunter 23 is a 23.25ft fractional sloop designed by Hunter Marine and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1985 and 1992. The Hunter 23 is a light sailboat which is a high performer. It is reasonably stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a racing boat.

  9. Hunter 23 Sailboat values and recent boats for sale

    The Hunter 23 is an American trailerable sailboat, that was designed by Hunter Marine and first built in 1985. ... The wing keel-equipped version of the boat has a draft of 2.25 ft (0.69 m), while the centerboard-equipped version has a draft of 4.90 ft (1.49 m) with the centerboard extended and 2.0 ft (0.61 m) with it retracted, allowing ground ...

  10. Hunter 23

    The Hunter 23 is a small recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim. It has a fractional sloop rig, a raked stem, a reverse transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a tiller and a fixed wing keel or centerboard. It displaces 2,450 lb (1,111 kg) and carries 800 lb (363 kg) of ballast. The wing keel-equipped version of the boat has a draft of 2.25 ft (0.69 ...

  11. Hunter 23 boats for sale in North America

    Find Hunter 23 boats for sale in North America. Offering the best selection of Hunter boats to choose from.

  12. Hunter 23.5

    The Hunter 23.5 is a recreational keelboat, built predominantly of fiberglass, with wood trim. It has a fractional sloop rig with a full batten mainsail and a 110% genoa, a raked stem, a walk-through reverse transom, a transom-hung rudder controlled by a metal tiller and a centerboard. It displaces 2,000 lb (907 kg) and carries 1,000 lb (454 kg ...

  13. HUNTER 23: Reviews, Specifications, Built, Engine

    HUNTER 23 Detailed Review. 1 of 2. If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of HUNTER 23. Built by Hunter Marine (USA) and designed by undefined, the boat was first built in 1985. It has a hull type of Wing Keel and LOA is 7.09.

  14. HunterOwners.com store

    We're the first and last stop for parts and accessories. Customize your boat, or put it back in its original factory condition with parts and gear from HunterOwners.com. SailboatOwners.com, 605 NW 53rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL, 32609. 877-932-7245 M-F 10am - 4pm Eastern time. HunterOwners.com store.

  15. Hunter 23

    Off the top of my head, there is an outhaul that stretches the foot of the sail, drawing the foot aft (to rear) from a line located up front. Not sure if that is the one that ties off to the small cleat on the bottom of the boom, or if it has a cam brake. ... The pdf hunter 23 manual also "vaugely" shows the "quick" reefing system for the foot ...

  16. Hunter 23 PHRF

    1,670. Pearson Wanderer Titusville, Florida. Jan 13, 2007. #3. Oh, by the way. The numbers I saw were 234 and 240.u000bu000bPeteru000bH23 "Raven". Not open for further replies. Just wondering if anyone knew the phrf number for a hunter 23 wink keel with a 150 genoa , roller furling. I think its 246 or 252 not sure though? thanks.

  17. Hunter 23.5 boats for sale

    The starting price is $10,000, the most expensive is $11,900, and the average price of $10,950. Related boats include the following models: 310, 33 and Passage 420. Boat Trader works with thousands of boat dealers and brokers to bring you one of the largest collections of Hunter 23.5 boats on the market. You can also browse boat dealers to find ...

  18. Hunter 23 Sails for Sale

    The Hunter 23 displaces 800 lb (363 kg). It has a mainsail area of 125.14 sq ft (11.626 m2), and jib/genoa area of 110.50 sq ft (10.266 m2). An outboard motor is usually fitted in the boat for maneuvering and docking. The wing keel version of Hunter 23 has a PHRF racing average handicap of 237 with a high of 258 and a low of 226.

  19. Hunter 23 Sailboat Boats for sale

    Hunter 23' Sailboat 1987. The boat is in great condition,was a sweet water boat,sail only used one season,cut to off shore sailing.Includes marine radio,regular radio with cassette.Has Fixed keel 23",Cast iron.Trailer included.No engine.mast height 33',ballast 800lbs.Headroom 4'7". sail area 235.5 sq.ft.

  20. new owner

    Dec 6, 2016. #5. DFED; The 23.5 was designed so it will only accommodate a 110 jib. The next sail for light air is an A symmetrical spinnaker. As for the main, it is larger than a normal standard main as the boat which Hunter was putting more power in the main. Combined with both sails, in a sense, you have a standard main and a 140 % genoa ...

  21. Hunter sailboats for sale by owner.

    Hunter used sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. Search. ... Sailboat Added 23-Jul-2012 More Details: Hunter 460: Length: 46' Beam: 14' Draft: 6'6' Type: cruiser: ... 32' Bayfield 32C 32 ft Cutter Costa Del Sol El Salvador Asking $8,000. 22' Hinterhoeller Nonsuch 22 Punta Gorda, Florida ...

  22. Hunter sailboats for sale

    1999 Hunter 43 | Anythings Possible New Port Richey, Florida, United States. $125,000. Listed on January 29, 2021. Hunter sailboats for sale.