Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 386
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter 386 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 386 | Hunter 18.5 | Hunter 386 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 38.3 ft11.66 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 32.0 ft9.75 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 12.6 ft3.83 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 5.0 ft1.52 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 16,000 lb7,257 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 5,900 lb2,676 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 740 ft²68.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 18.65 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 218 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 25.0 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.00 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 7.6 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter 386: the short version
- The Hunter 386 is the larger boat at 38.3 ft11.66 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter 386 is heavier, displacing about 900% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 386 carries the more powerful rig (18.6 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 386 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 386 rates better for offshore work (2.00 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.