Hunter or Gibsea?

[eastward]

I have a Pandora at the moment but need a bit more space for the family and something a bit newer to save on maintenance. I am considering a Hunter 27 or Gibsea 262 but have not sailed eithor yet. Would appreciate any views on which is the better boat or any other suggestions.
Thanks

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[Birdseye]

I have - and wouldn't hesitate to chose the Hunter. Well made and sail well. Plus (unlike most British boatbuilders) Hunters still exist, so service should be OK.



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[ruff_n_tumble]

I don't know anything about the Gibsea 262 I'm afraid, but as an owner can recommend the Hunter 27 as seaworthy (in the conditions I have experienced - Solent, cross-channel, nothing more than F7), nimble at close quarters, spacious (for her length) and comfortable. The manufacturers still supply spares very efficiently (or in my experience did so until recently). I'm not sure where you're based but if you would like a day's sailing to get a feel for the boat I'd be happy to take you out. Do get in touch.

<hr width=100% size=1>Steve Marsh
Hunter 27 OOD "Ruff-n-Tumble"
Gosport

 

[ditchcrawler]

As an owner of 2 Hunters(Currently Ranger 265) I can confirm their seaworthiness & Hunter are very good with information & spares etc.They are very well built & are a little under canvassed in light airs.A scooper is a good adition for light airs sailing(cruising chute).They really look after you in a blow.I have no knowledge of the Gibsea.You should be able to pick up a Hunter 27(1989-1994ish)for £19-24k or less if you haggle.A few on offer on PBO site for circa £20k.

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[PaulR]

Have owned 3 hunters over the years and enjoyed each of them-all have sailed well and lasted well-we have had a hunter europa, a delta 25 with lift keel and upto 2001 a hunter 272 bilge, would have no hesitation in recommending them - not fancy boats but sensibly built, tough and above all pleasurable to sail-never had any problems worth mentioning with any of them, have fun

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[eastward]

Thanks for the tips

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[ChrisL]

If you are still looking (we took 6 months!) we were looking at similar boats & eventually went for a 262, the gibsea seemed better made & we found a really nice 1990 example of a lift keel. Have no regrets following a relatively unadventurous first season.




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