Hi
I am finally buying a boat. It has been 10 years since the last one. The price is right. I have found a decend 1981 Hunter 30 with lots of equipment. However I also ran accross a 1983 Pearson 34 (centerboard). Both are going for the same price and will require T.L.C. and some updating.
I am leaning towards the bigger boat since I had a Columbia 30 and think that bigger is better (in this case). I need opinions on which way to go.
Personally, I think the Pearson will have a better resale than the Hunter.
I realize that we all have our preferences. I will be sailing mostly solo or with one helper in coastal S.C. Some overnight trips.
The hunter has 1 plow, 1 Delta and 1 danforthanchor with SS chain and 250 rode each. Cruiseair portable air. ST60 detph, speed and wind. Dodger,bimini and side curtains for a fully enclosed cockpit. 8ft Apex inflatable (no motor). Rear foldable Mahogany swim platform 6ft wide. Custom S.S. davits with 150w Kyocera panels, Garmin 440 GPS, VHF and AM/FM radio, Frigibar cold plate, H & C water heater, S.S. grill and gas stove. The only thing I would add is a jibfurler and a 5hp motor for the tender.
Second the recommendations so far. Assuming no major structural problems the Pearson will be a stronger boat if you plan going offshore, the Hunter built for coastal cruising.
Definitely get a survey. Older boats can have serious structural problems that may cost more than the value of the boat to repair. Check especially deck moisture/delamination, hull blisters, etc. These could be real deal killers. Rigging, motor, etc can be fixable if the price is right.
The Pearson has been to Australia, South america and the Islands. However it is bare and only has a dodger and Bimini along with a furler. Electronics are old. Both boats will need cushion covers and brightwork. Sails are under 10years old on both.
As others have stated, condition is the most important thing. I'd always put the Pearson 34 ahead of the Hunter 30, but then I must tell you I almost bought a Pearson 33-2 (very similar to the P34) and have sailed Pearsons a good bit. I think they're a step above the quality of the Hunters of the same era.
That said, if the Hunter is in better condition and has more gear and needs less work, that's something to consider. Personally, I'd buy the Pearson, or if it's not as nice as the Hunter, I'd wait for another boat. Just not a Hunter fan (no offense to the Hunter owners out there who are sailing and love their boats, just not for me).
As others said to me, in the end, it's about which boat speaks to you. And condition I'd still put way ahead of builder.
