Marlow Hunter celebrates 40 years of Hunter Yachts with launch of new 40

Life begins at 40, and with Hunter Yachts celebrating 40 years of operation this year, new life has certainly begun with a splash. With new owner David Marlow at the helm, Marlow-Hunter has launched the brand new Hunter 40 (H40) at the Annapolis Sail Show.

The H40 is designed specifically for extended cruising and live-aboard comfort, as are all the models in Marlow-Hunter’s “World Destination Series” of yachts – including the H45, H50 and H50cc.

The H40 offers a choice of two- or three-cabin interior configurations, both with a generous 6’ 4” of headroom; forward facing nav-centre; spacious galley featuring Corian® countertops, double burner LPG gas stove with oven, and even a six-place setting of dishes, bowls and mugs; and interior finishes in either cherry or teak. Another shared feature of the H40 is its dual head design. For the two-cabin configuration, the forward head is ensuite and features a separate shower stall. The standard aft cabin, with a raised centre island double bed, features an ensuite head and shower with additional storage and dual cedar-lined closets. By contrast, the optional three-cabin layout features a separate shower for the head configuration.

Topside, the Hunter 40 is poetry in motion. The generous cockpit is the social hub of the yacht with Marlow-Hunter’s TravelArch® rigging allowing freedom of movement and safety both underway and at anchorage. Large storage compartments for line and gear also serve – beautifully – as seating. The large pop-up table makes the cockpit a perfect entertaining and dining venue. The dual helm stations provide ease of handling, while stainless steel stern rail seating provides a relaxing seating area for company underway.

Forward of the cockpit the H40 is all business with organized deck and rigging layouts structured for single-hand sailing with the optional self-furling sail system. Alternatively, performance oriented sailors may choose a standard sail configuration. Both sail plans can be easily and safely handled with the canted handrails and lines and a non-skid surface for maximum safety and mobility.

Aesthetics and functionality are also of note. Forward of the cockpit is a sleek low-profile cabin. The continuous windows running down both port and starboard sides allow abundant light to enter.

And as with all Marlow-Hunter yachts and sailboats, the H40 is manufactured and built in the United States, with each interior crafted by skilled craftsmen on-site and mated perfectly to each individual hull.

John T. Petersen, Marlow-Hunter president stated at the H40 launch; “With its pleasing design aesthetic, topside sailing performance and feature-rich amenities, along with both the focus on safety and seamless construction Marlow-Hunter is known for, the H40 proudly represents our ongoing commitment to design, innovation, quality and value for sailors around the world.”

Matt Hayes, CEO of US Yachts, was in Annapolis for the launch, and said “The H40 is already nominated for boat of the year awards and we already have orders here in Australia for it. The first H40 will be in Australia in March 2013 and we are very confident it will be the yacht of choice for savvy cruisers.”

***For further information on Marlow-Hunter’s H40, call US Yachts on (02) 9281 4422, email hunter@usyachts.com.au or visit www.usyachts.com.au