Hunter 170 vs Hunter 18.5
How do the Hunter 170 and Hunter 18.5 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Hunter 170 | Hunter 170 | Hunter 18.5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 17.1 ft5.21 m | 18.4 ft5.61 m |
| Waterline length | 12.1 ft3.68 m | 15.5 ft4.72 m |
| Beam | 7.0 ft2.13 m | 7.1 ft2.16 m |
| Draft | 4.5 ft1.37 m | 2.0 ft0.61 m |
| Displacement | 478 lb217 kg | 1,600 lb726 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 520 lb236 kg |
| Sail area | 134 ft²12.4 m² | 152 ft²14.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 35.07 | 17.78 |
| Displacement / Length | 121 | 192 |
| Comfort ratio | 4.1 | 11.1 |
| Capsize screening | 3.58 | 2.42 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 4.7 | 5.3 |
Hunter 170 vs Hunter 18.5: the short version
- The Hunter 18.5 is the larger boat at 18.4 ft5.61 m LOA versus 17.1 ft5.21 m for the Hunter 170.
- The Hunter 18.5 is heavier, displacing about 235% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 170 carries the more powerful rig (35.1 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 18.5 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 18.5 rates better for offshore work (2.42 vs 3.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.