Etchells vs Hunter 30-2
How do the Etchells and Hunter 30-2 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Etchells 
Hunter 30-2 | Etchells | Hunter 30-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 30.2 ft9.20 m | 30.1 ft9.17 m |
| Waterline length | 22.0 ft6.71 m | 25.8 ft7.87 m |
| Beam | 6.9 ft2.10 m | 11.0 ft3.35 m |
| Draft | 4.5 ft1.37 m | 4.3 ft1.30 m |
| Displacement | 3,325 lb1,508 kg | 10,500 lb4,763 kg |
| Ballast | 2,175 lb987 kg | 3,800 lb1,724 kg |
| Sail area | 297 ft²27.6 m² | 433 ft²40.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 21.33 | 14.45 |
| Displacement / Length | 139 | 272 |
| Comfort ratio | 16.1 | 24.6 |
| Capsize screening | 1.85 | 2.01 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.3 | 6.8 |
Etchells vs Hunter 30-2: the short version
- The Etchells and Hunter 30-2 are close in length (30.2 ft9.20 m vs 30.1 ft9.17 m ).
- The Hunter 30-2 is heavier, displacing about 216% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Etchells carries the more powerful rig (21.3 vs 14.4), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 30-2 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Etchells rates better for offshore work (1.85 vs 2.01).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.