Hunter 170 vs Hunter 38
How do the Hunter 170 and Hunter 38 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 38 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 17.1 ft5.21 m | 38.2 ft11.63 m |
| Waterline length | 12.1 ft3.68 m | 34.7 ft10.57 m |
| Beam | 7.0 ft2.13 m | 12.9 ft3.94 m |
| Draft | 4.5 ft1.37 m | 6.5 ft1.98 m |
| Displacement | 478 lb217 kg | 18,342 lb8,320 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 6,130 lb2,781 kg |
| Sail area | 134 ft²12.4 m² | 702 ft²65.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 35.07 | 16.15 |
| Displacement / Length | 121 | 196 |
| Comfort ratio | 4.1 | 26.3 |
| Capsize screening | 3.58 | 1.96 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 4.7 | 7.9 |
Hunter 170 vs Hunter 38: the short version
- The Hunter 38 is the larger boat at 38.2 ft11.63 m LOA versus 17.1 ft5.21 m for the Hunter 170.
- The Hunter 38 is heavier, displacing about 3737% 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 16.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 38 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 38 rates better for offshore work (1.96 vs 3.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.