Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter Passage 42
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Hunter Passage 42 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 Passage 42 | Hunter 18.5 | Hunter Passage 42 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 42.5 ft12.95 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 38.0 ft11.58 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 14.0 ft4.27 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 4.9 ft1.50 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 24,000 lb10,886 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 7,700 lb3,493 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 949 ft²88.2 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 18.25 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 195 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 28.1 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 1.94 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 8.3 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Hunter Passage 42: the short version
- The Hunter Passage 42 is the larger boat at 42.5 ft12.95 m LOA versus 18.4 ft5.61 m for the Hunter 18.5.
- The Hunter Passage 42 is heavier, displacing about 1400% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter Passage 42 carries the more powerful rig (18.2 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter Passage 42 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter Passage 42 rates better for offshore work (1.94 vs 2.42).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.