Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 20
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter 20 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Hunter 18.5 | Hunter 18.5 | Hunter 20 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 19.7 ft6.00 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 15.5 ft4.72 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 7.5 ft2.29 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 1,700 lb771 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 400 lb181 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 169 ft²15.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 18.98 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 204 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 10.7 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.51 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 20: the short version
- The Hunter 20 is the larger boat at 19.7 ft6.00 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 20 carries the more powerful rig (19.0 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 2.51).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.