Classic lines, dependable sailing performance, and an inviting cruising layout have made the Hunter 30 a favorite among sailors for generations. Designed by the legendary John Cherubini, this 1979 Hunter 30 offers the timeless appeal of a true coastal cruiser with the comfort and versatility that continue to make these boats highly sought after today.
At just over 30 feet, the Hunter 30 strikes an ideal balance between manageable size and generous interior volume. Her moderate beam, substantial ballast, and proven hull design deliver a confident ride under sail, whether you're enjoying an afternoon coastal cruise, exploring a nearby anchorage, or embarking on a weekend getaway with family and friends.
Below deck, you'll find the warm, traditional feel that defines classic cruising sailboats. The spacious cabin offers comfortable accommodations, abundant natural light, and practical living spaces that make extended time aboard enjoyable. Large berths, a functional galley, and ample storage combine to create a capable cruiser that feels much larger than her length suggests.
The Cherubini-era Hunter 30 earned its reputation by delivering exceptional value, solid construction, and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Today, these boats remain a popular choice for sailors seeking an affordable entry into cruising without sacrificing comfort, capability, or classic good looks.
Whether you're moving up from a smaller boat, searching for your first cruiser, or looking for a proven classic with enduring appeal, this Hunter 30 presents an excellent opportunity to get out on the water and start making memories.
Contact us today to arrange your viewing.
The 1979 Hunter 30 is a classic American cruising sailboat designed by renowned naval architect John Cherubini and built by Hunter Marine. Produced between 1973 and 1983, with more than 1,000 boats built, the Hunter 30 became one of the company's most successful early models and remains a popular choice among sailors looking for an affordable, capable coastal cruiser.
Designed as a family cruiser with a spacious interior and straightforward sailing characteristics, the Hunter 30 offers a practical balance between comfort, performance, and value. Cherubini-era Hunters are often regarded as some of the best sailing boats in the Hunter lineup, thanks to their traditional hull form and well-balanced sailing qualities.
Key Specifications
Designer: John Cherubini
Builder: Hunter Marine (USA)
Years Built: 1973-1983
Length Overall (LOA): 30.4 ft (9.27 m)
Length Waterline (LWL): 25.75 ft (7.85 m)
Beam: 10.17 ft (3.10 m)
Displacement: 9,700 lbs (4,400 kg)
Ballast: 4,100 lbs (1,860 kg)
Draft: 5.25 ft standard fin keel (shoal draft version approximately 4.3 ft available)
Rig: Masthead Sloop
Sail Area: Approximately 453 sq ft
Hull Speed: 6.8 knots
Fuel Capacity: 12 gallons
Water Capacity: 33 gallons [sailboatdata.com]
The Hunter 30 features a solid fiberglass hull with a balsa-cored deck, a common construction method for production boats of the era. The hull-to-deck joint uses an inward-turning flange that is through-bolted and reinforced by an aluminum toerail
Sailing Performance
The Hunter 30 is known for being an easy and forgiving boat to sail. The masthead sloop rig is simple and effective, making the boat suitable for both experienced sailors and those transitioning from smaller vessels.
Under sail, the boat performs best in moderate winds. It is not particularly fast in light air, but once the breeze builds into the 10-15 knot range, the Hunter 30 becomes responsive and enjoyable to handle. Owners often praise its balanced helm, predictable manners, and ability to track well when properly trimmed.
Although not designed as a racing yacht, the Hunter 30 is capable of respectable club-racing performance and compares favorably with other cruising boats of its era.
One of the Hunter 30's greatest strengths is its roomy interior. Hunter marketed the boat as a liveaboard-sized cruiser, and the design delivers impressive accommodations for a 30-foot vessel.
Typical features include:
Forward V-berth sleeping area
Enclosed head with sink and shower capability
Convertible salon seating
Quarter berth aft
Functional galley with sink, slide out icebox, and stove
Ample storage throughout the cabin
Approximately 6 feet of standing headroom in the main cabin
Owner built full custom dodger bimini enclosure.
Custom aluminum main traveller
All stainless porthole windows, with screens and extra gaskets
2 winch handles
Boat includes crates of tools, spare parts, all manuals
Updated guage cluster in cockpit
Integrated solar panels in the bimini and charge controller,
Main
110% Genoa
120% Genoa
125% Genoa
153% Genoa
DISCLAIMER
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.