1996 Hunter 290 vs 1998 Island Packet 37 — Comparison
1996 Hunter 290
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1996 Hunter 290 | 1998 Island Packet 37 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Hunter | Island Packet |
| Year | 1996–2000 | 1998–2005 |
| Type | Sloop | Cutter |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Glenn Henderson | Bob Johnson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) | 11.28 m (37.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.47 m (24.5 ft) | 9.45 m (31.0 ft) |
| Beam | 2.97 m (9.7 ft) | 3.66 m (12.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) | 1.37 m (4.5 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,493 kg (7,701 lbs) | 8,165 kg (18,001 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,361 kg (3,000 lbs) | 3,266 kg (7,200 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 38.9 m² (419 ft²) | 58.0 m² (624 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 40 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 170 L (44.9 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 76 L (20.1 gal) | 303 L (80.0 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 6 |
| Cabins | 1 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1996 Hunter 290 and 1998 Island Packet 37 represent different approaches to sailboat design. The 1996 Hunter 290 is a 1990s design by Hunter from USA, while the 1998 Island Packet 37 is a 1990s offering from Island Packet from USA. The 1996 Hunter 290 was penned by Glenn Henderson. The 1998 Island Packet 37 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 1998 Island Packet 37 at 11.28m (37.0ft) with a 3.66m beam. The 1998 Island Packet 37 is 2.44m longer than the 1996 Hunter 290. The 1998 Island Packet 37 displaces approximately 134% 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 1998 Island Packet 37, with an SA/D of 14.53 and 58.0 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 1998 Island Packet 37 has a comfort ratio of 22.3 and a capsize screening value of 0.73. The ballast ratios are 39.0% for the 1996 Hunter 290 and 40.0% for the 1998 Island Packet 37, 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 1998 Island Packet 37 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 303L water and 170L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1998 Island Packet 37 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: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for 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 · 1998 Island Packet 37