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Sailboat Specifications

Hunter 23

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Hunter Design Team · Built by Hunter Marine (Usa) · First built 1984

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LOA 23.25 ft  ·  Beam 8.25 ft  ·  Displacement 3,600 lb  ·  Sail Area 238 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Hunter 23 Sailboat

Designed as an accessible entry point into sailboat ownership, this compact Hunter represents the builder's commitment to creating affordable, user-friendly vessels for recreational sailors. The Hunter 23 embodies the classic characteristics that made Hunter Marine a household name among weekend warriors and sailing families throughout the late 20th century. Built with Hunter's signature emphasis on interior volume and ease of handling, this boat maximizes living space within its modest footprint while maintaining straightforward sailing characteristics that won't intimidate newer sailors. The design philosophy prioritizes comfort and practicality over pure performance, making it well-suited for coastal cruising, day sailing, and learning the fundamentals of sailboat handling. Like other Hunter designs from this era, the 23 likely features a relatively wide beam that enhances stability and interior roominess, though this comes at some cost to windward performance. The boat's forgiving nature and predictable handling characteristics make it an excellent choice for those transitioning from smaller dinghies or seeking a manageable weekend cruiser for protected waters. For budget-conscious sailors prioritizing comfort and ease of use over racing performance, the Hunter 23 offers solid value in the entry-level cruising market.

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Market Price Estimate Beta
$1,000 – $7,900
typical asking price · boat only
Median $4,000  ·  19 listings used
Boat only
$1,000 – $7,900 19
With trailer
$4,000 – $6,000 2
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 23.25 ft / 7.09 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 20.25 ft / 6.17 m
Beam 8.25 ft / 2.51 m
Max Draft 3.50 ft / 1.07 m
Displacement 3,600 lb / 1,633 kg
Ballast 1,350 lb / 612 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 238 ft² / 22.11 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Hunter Design Team
Builder Hunter Marine (USA)
First Built 1984
Last Built 1991
Number Built 1000
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hunter 23's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Hunter 23 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.19. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Hunter 23's comfort ratio?

The Hunter 23 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 11.47. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Hunter 23 safe for offshore sailing?

The Hunter 23 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.38. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Hunter 23?

The theoretical hull speed of the Hunter 23 is 5.93 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Hunter 23 weigh?

The Hunter 23 has a displacement of 3,600 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 23.25 ft.

How much does a used Hunter 23 cost?

Based on 19 recent market listings, used Hunter 23 sailboats typically sell for between $1,000 and $7,900, with a median asking price of $4,000. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Hunter 23?

The Hunter 23 was designed by Hunter Design Team, first built in 1984.

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