Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter HC 50
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter HC 50 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 HC 50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 50.0 ft15.24 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 45.0 ft13.72 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 15.0 ft4.57 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 5.8 ft1.78 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 18,000 lb8,165 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 5,600 lb2,540 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 1,274 ft²118.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 29.68 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 88 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 16.2 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.29 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 9.0 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter HC 50: the short version
- The Hunter HC 50 is the larger boat at 50.0 ft15.24 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter HC 50 is heavier, displacing about 1025% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter HC 50 carries the more powerful rig (29.7 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter HC 50 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter HC 50 rates better for offshore work (2.29 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.