Hunter 18.5 vs Sandpiper 565
How do the Hunter 18.5 and Sandpiper 565 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Hunter 18.5 
Sandpiper 565 | Hunter 18.5 | Sandpiper 565 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 18.4 ft5.61 m | 18.5 ft5.64 m |
| Waterline length | 15.5 ft4.72 m | 15.0 ft4.57 m |
| Beam | 7.1 ft2.16 m | 7.1 ft2.16 m |
| Draft | 2.0 ft0.61 m | 2.9 ft0.88 m |
| Displacement | 1,600 lb726 kg | 1,200 lb544 kg |
| Ballast | 520 lb236 kg | 300 lb136 kg |
| Sail area | 152 ft²14.1 m² | 154 ft²14.3 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 17.78 | 21.82 |
| Displacement / Length | 192 | 159 |
| Comfort ratio | 11.1 | 8.5 |
| Capsize screening | 2.42 | 2.67 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 5.3 | 5.2 |
Hunter 18.5 vs Sandpiper 565: the short version
- The Hunter 18.5 and Sandpiper 565 are close in length (18.4 ft5.61 m vs 18.5 ft5.64 m ).
- The Hunter 18.5 is heavier, displacing about 33% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Sandpiper 565 carries the more powerful rig (21.8 vs 17.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 18.5 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 18.5 rates better for offshore work (2.42 vs 2.67).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.