The much talked about Hunter Mystery 35 has finally made its debut on the pool at the London Boat. This new, traditional-style, cruiser/racer keelboat, which has a price tag of £87,902, is the brainchild of Stephen Jones, one of the country’s most respected designers having drawn the lines of the Prima 38, the successful 6 Metre, Lion and the Starlight 46. Jones is also the proud owner of a Folkboat, a boat that has seemingly had great influence on this new design as far as tradition is concerned. The style of the transom and skeg, however, has a distinct Metre boat flavour to it, which again, is a direct influence from Jones’ Metre designs.

While we (and indeed Hunter Boats) have yet to sail the boat, her lines, decent keel and 576sq ft of rig give every indication she’ll provide an exceptionally good ride. Because, however, the rudder is in a (Metre boat-style) well forward position and the tiller takes up most of the length of the cockpit, it will be interesting to see what effect this has on space and how the crew will cope with the layout when underway.

Plenty of headroom and a light cherry wood interior gives this 35-footer a spacious feel below although conditions would be a little on the cosy side if all seven berths were taken. While the layout down below has generally been well thought out it is a shame the finish on this first production boat isn’t quite up to scratch. However, Hunter tell me the make-shift galley cabinet doors will be replaced with better quality ones before the boat’s delivered to the owner. And the handle I managed to pull off on the forward cabin door will also be replaced!

Despite a generally quiet show, Hunter are positive about the response they’ve had so far with seven deposits already taken.

For more details, contact Hunter Boats at www.hunterboats.com