For 2010, the Glenn Henderson/Ron Humphries designed 39 Hunter replaces the 38. Everything that made the 38 so popular and desirable has been retained in the new model and many new features have been incorporated into the 39 to raise the bar substantially.

The new model although similar to the 38 maintains its beam much further aft than did the 38. This gives the boat better performance and a larger cockpit further enhanced by the twin steering wheels.

The new hull design provides a large swim platform that makes boarding simple and extremely safe. A split swing gate gives more than ample access room; in two steps you are in a flat floor cockpit except for the bevelled area for each of the wheels.

Topsides, two coach top windlasses are readily available for releasing and setting sails. Two larger winches are located on the port and starboard sides of the boat just forward of each of the wheels for complete sail control while underway. All are self-tailing by Lewmar.

Movement forward is easy because of the wide walkway areas. Double lifelines run the length of the boat from the stainless steel stern rails to the stainless steel bow rails. In fact, movement anywhere on deck is easily managed and very safe with flat surfaces; the distinctive non-skid patterns make footing totally secure.

The mast is deck-stepped with a stainless steel compression pole below. Typical of the Hunter rigs is a fractional design by B and R. The headsail is smaller than on other 39-foot boats and with the twin helms, the visibility is clean and clear forward.

Once below, the galley is immediately to right on starboard. It is a very large L-shaped area with more than ample counter space to allow for the preparation of the most elaborate meals or simple snacks. There is plenty of storage both over the counter and below it. There is a microwave, coffee maker and the propane stove/oven is fully gimbaled.

The stainless high-polished, double sink is situated to enable the chef to face and converse with guests. The fridge/freezer is over-sized and located under the sink. The tea rail on the Corian counter of the 39 is through-bolted with a stainless support pole on the corner of the galley counter.

The aft bulkhead of the galley houses the door to the aft cabin on the Hunter 39. This aft cabin includes a large double bed along with a large head/shower vanity that is shared with the main salon; there is an option for two staterooms aft for more sleeping accommodations. Suffice to say, that although full headroom is not possible, there is plenty to make the room comfortable without feeling claustrophobic.

The L-shaped galley allows for unencumbered access to the master quarters. There is plenty of hanging locker space and storage for even the longer cruises one can take on the new Hunter 39.

On the port side to aft is the salon access to the head. You enter into a large, bright, well-appointed vanity and the wet head is next in line. Although the toilet and the shower share the same space, this is very normal and a small price to pay for the beautiful interior and the living space provided in this boat.

Immediately forward of the head and still to port is the nav station. It is larger and more functional than on the 38 and repeater stations can be provided for the main electronics and navigation equipment.

Forward of the nav station is a large settee, which could form an additional large berth if required. This comfortable seating space is immediately across from the large U-shaped dinette and lounge seating area. The beautifully finished high gloss table is extremely large and the well-planned seating on the aisle side of the table provides seating at the table on all sides. This means a large number can easily enjoy a sit down dinner on the Hunter 39.

The main salon is large and open. There is a compression pole support for the mast just aft of the salon's bulkhead that adds to the look of the salon. The raised cabin (coach) roof has teardrop-shaped windows to allow ample light into the salon. There are also large roof ports that allow for more light into the interior. Hunter's trademark of airy bright interiors is maintained on this 39. Add to this the use of semi-gloss teak wall accents and the solid engineered wood flooring and one notices that the cabin salon is warm and inviting with a true feeling of richness.

The salon is very people-friendly. There is a stereo on board, a flat panel television on the forward bulkhead of the salon and everywhere you look you see areas that are focused on people staying on board for long periods of time in comfort.

To complete the inside viewing, we move to the forward stateroom. Here the large private space boasts a large v-berth with storage under the bed and beautifully finished wood surrounding you. Overhead are large opening windows that provide light and ventilation when it is not necessary to run the central air. There are two extremely large cedar-lined hanging lockers and storage is more than ample in this area.

In the sole of the main salon there is unbelievable storage and access. One can get to all of the required systems of the boat under the floor through one of several access points. In addition, there are separate storage spaces; some systems accesses double as storage space too.

In conclusion, the interior is spacious, the quality wood treatments are opulent, and the function of the interior surpasses the form – if that is possible. You quickly realize that Hunter has thought about it all in the new 39. It is absolutely beautiful and lacks nothing; leather-like fabrics, Corian counters, a quality stereo system, flat panel TVs, high-end appliances and modern light fixtures all add to the interior. The Oceanaire shades and screens provide excellent light, natural air, and light protection all in one on the interior hatch installations.

By David McPhail

To see if this boat is available, go to www.boatcan.com to check listings!