Hunter 31 vs 2000 Island Packet 38 — Comparison
Hunter 31
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | Hunter 31 | 2000 Island Packet 38 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Hunter | Island Packet |
| Year | 2000–2005 | 2000–2008 |
| Type | Sloop | Cutter |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Glenn Henderson | Bob Johnson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 9.45 m (31.0 ft) | 11.58 m (38.0 ft) |
| LWL | 8.23 m (27.0 ft) | 9.75 m (32.0 ft) |
| Beam | 3.12 m (10.2 ft) | 3.72 m (12.2 ft) |
| Draft | 1.68 m (5.5 ft) | 1.37 m (4.5 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 4,082 kg (8,999 lbs) | 8,618 kg (18,999 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,588 kg (3,501 lbs) | 3,447 kg (7,599 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 44.0 m² (474 ft²) | 60.5 m² (651 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 18 HP | 40 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 189 L (49.9 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 114 L (30.1 gal) | 340 L (89.8 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 6 |
| Cabins | 2 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The Hunter 31 and 2000 Island Packet 38 represent different approaches to sailboat design. The Hunter 31 is a 2000s design by Hunter from USA, while the 2000 Island Packet 38 is a 2000s offering from Island Packet from USA. The Hunter 31 was penned by Glenn Henderson. The 2000 Island Packet 38 was designed by Bob Johnson.
In terms of size, the Hunter 31 measures 9.45m (31.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.12m, compared to the 2000 Island Packet 38 at 11.58m (38.0ft) with a 3.72m beam. The 2000 Island Packet 38 is 2.13m longer than the Hunter 31. The 2000 Island Packet 38 displaces approximately 111% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the Hunter 31 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 17.51 and 44.0 m² of sail area. The 2000 Island Packet 38, with an SA/D of 14.62 and 60.5 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The Hunter 31 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the Hunter 31 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 18.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.78). The 2000 Island Packet 38 has a comfort ratio of 21.7 and a capsize screening value of 0.73. The ballast ratios are 38.9% for the Hunter 31 and 40.0% for the 2000 Island Packet 38, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the Hunter 31 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The 2000 Island Packet 38 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 340L water and 189L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 2000 Island Packet 38 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 Hunter 31 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: Hunter 31 · 2000 Island Packet 38