Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 23
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter 23 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 23 | Hunter 18.5 | Hunter 23 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 23.3 ft7.09 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 19.6 ft5.97 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 8.0 ft2.44 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 2.3 ft0.69 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 2,450 lb1,111 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 800 lb363 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 236 ft²21.9 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 20.78 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 146 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 11.5 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.37 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 5.9 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 23: the short version
- The Hunter 23 is the larger boat at 23.3 ft7.09 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter 23 is heavier, displacing about 53% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 23 carries the more powerful rig (20.8 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 23 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 23 rates better for offshore work (2.37 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.