Hunter 260

wallyQ2 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-25-2007

Used Hunter 260 is on the short list along with newer Hunter 25. Small draft very important as I like to beach it (boat) and relax on nice shores. Wondering if newer 25 is an improvement for living on board for aweek or two, or just changed for the sake of change. Plus, does anyone know if either boat is "positive floatation" like the McGregor claims to be.

sailingfool · #2 (**permalink**) 10-25-2007

Yanno a boat that size doesn't have a lot of space down below, do you realy want to use a lot of it for flotation otherwise not needed, or for space for you, your friends, and gear? Everything in boating involves tradeoffs, and rather than looking for a boat that won't sink, just expect it to float like everyone else does. Unless you do something very dumb, it will....

PBzeer · #3 (**permalink**) 10-26-2007

It's my understanding the new 25 is a keelboat, while the 260 and earlier 26 are water ballasted w/swing keel. The 26/260, when used with the poptop option are tolerable for short term time aboard. They draw around 18" with board up, but you will have to raise the rudder as well, which steers much harder the higher up it comes.

If you're looking for an easily trailerable boat, you could do worse.

sailingdog · #4 (**permalink**) 10-26-2007

You could also do a lot better.

A lot of the folding sport trimarans are designed to have very shallow drafts—less than 18" and are specifically designed to be beachable—which neither MacGregor is AFAIK. I wouldn't recommend the Corsair 24/28 as their cabin is far too small, but some of the other—more cruising oriented boats, would be excellent choices.

gkobernus · #5 (**permalink**) 10-27-2007

If you are looking for a true trailerable with excellent cabin size for it's length you'll have a hard time finding a better choice.

I regularly run my H260 up on the beach or back it up to some rocks. Draft has never been a problem.

Hunter has placed foam in many nooks and crannies in the boat but I don't believe they certify it as unsinkable.

The H25 replaces both the H240 and the H250 in the Hunter line. It has a smaller cabin space more in line with the H240.

wallyQ2 · #6 (**permalink**) 10-30-2007

Thanks much for the info. Nice to hear from a H260 user, as that's the one I think will do me, now just looking at prices, year and location