2002 - 2003 Hunter 356 Design Questions

manhattan08 · #1 01-24-2013

At some point in time, my wife and I would like to upgrade from our existing Hunter 285. As I look on Yachtworld at Hunter 356's that were built during 2002 and 2003, I noticed that all of the winches are mounted on the cabintop.

With this type of setup, if single-handling, how do you steer the boat and adjust / tack the boat if the winches are mounted at the front of the cockpit??

Was this a mistake by Hunter in the design of the boat, or am I just supposed to have 8 foot arms?

Faster · #2 01-24-2013

I guess you'll need "Otto" to drive for you....

Clearly not a good shorthanded setup. Do the coamings have winch pads?

manhattan08 · #3 01-24-2013

I've looked at pictures of the coamings and there appears to be no space to add a winch. I wish I could figure out how to post a picture here.... I'll respond back once I am able to get one added.

I noticed that the 356's during these years are significantly less expensive than the comprable boats from 2004 that have the winches mounted nearer the stern. I imagine this may be a primary factor in the cheaper prices???

brokesailor · #4 01-24-2013

I have a friend that has a Hunter 356 with the winches on the cabintop presently cruising inthe Bahamas. He singlehanded frequently and has no problem tacking the headsail. Don't let that deter you, you'll get the hang of it. Those boats are very comfortable inside in the salon. Great cushions!

manhattan08 · #5 01-25-2013

Attached is a link to a boat on yachtworld reflecting the layout of the cockpit with the winches located on the cabintop.

View Boat Photos - YachtWorld.com

BarryL · #6 01-25-2013

Hey,

If you really want winches near the help you should look at the previous model - the 35.5, or the newer 36, which came in 2005 or so. The 35.5 is a more 'traditional' boat than the 356. Most (all?) 356's have in mast furlers, the arch with traveler above, no backstay, and small headsails. The newer 36 model also has the arch, most are in mast furlers for the main but I have seen a number of traditional mainsails as well.

Good luck,
Barry

Faster · #7 01-25-2013

Quote:

Originally Posted by manhattan08

Attached is a link to a boat on yachtworld reflecting the layout of the cockpit with the winches located on the cabintop.

View Boat Photos - YachtWorld.com

Not much space for winches around that 'hot tub' cockpit, is there? IMO that series of Hunters missed the mark. Like Barry I much prefer the Legend series that preceded it.. 35.5/37.5 in particular. Non B&R rigs, traditional good looks, decent interiors. Depending on your area the one knock on them might be lack of a deep draft keel option.