1996 Hunter 290 vs 1990 Island Packet 29 — Comparison
1996 Hunter 290
1990 Island Packet 29
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1996 Hunter 290 | 1990 Island Packet 29 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Hunter | Island Packet |
| Year | 1996–2000 | 1990–1998 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Glenn Henderson | Bob Johnson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.47 m (24.5 ft) | 7.47 m (24.5 ft) |
| Beam | 2.97 m (9.7 ft) | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) | 1.12 m (3.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,493 kg (7,701 lbs) | 3,856 kg (8,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,361 kg (3,000 lbs) | 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 38.9 m² (419 ft²) | 33.5 m² (361 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 76 L (20.1 gal) | 132 L (34.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 5 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1996 Hunter 290 and 1990 Island Packet 29 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1996 Hunter 290 is a 1990s design by Hunter from USA, while the 1990 Island Packet 29 is a 1990s offering from Island Packet from USA. The 1996 Hunter 290 was penned by Glenn Henderson. The 1990 Island Packet 29 was designed by Bob Johnson.
In terms of size, the 1996 Hunter 290 measures 8.84m (29.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.97m, compared to the 1990 Island Packet 29 at 8.84m (29.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 1990 Island Packet 29 displaces approximately 10% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1996 Hunter 290 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 17.17 and 38.9 m² of sail area. The 1990 Island Packet 29, with an SA/D of 13.84 and 33.5 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1996 Hunter 290 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1996 Hunter 290 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 20.3) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.78). The 1990 Island Packet 29 has a comfort ratio of 21.6 and a capsize screening value of 0.78. The ballast ratios are 39.0% for the 1996 Hunter 290 and 41.2% for the 1990 Island Packet 29, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1996 Hunter 290 provides 6 berths in 1 cabin with 76L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The 1990 Island Packet 29 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 132L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1990 Island Packet 29 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.
For racing: The 1996 Hunter 290 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: The 1996 Hunter 290 offers more sleeping accommodation, making it better suited for extended living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: 1996 Hunter 290 · 1990 Island Packet 29