Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 290
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter 290 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 290 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 28.6 ft8.71 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 26.9 ft8.21 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 10.8 ft3.28 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 5.3 ft1.62 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 7,400 lb3,357 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 2,550 lb1,157 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 350 ft²32.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 14.75 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 169 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 17.6 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.21 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 7.0 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 290: the short version
- The Hunter 290 is the larger boat at 28.6 ft8.71 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter 290 is heavier, displacing about 363% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 18.5 carries the more powerful rig (17.8 vs 14.7), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 290 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 290 rates better for offshore work (2.21 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.