SeaHunter vs Contender
Which boat is appropriate for your boating needs
If you are trying to figure out an offshore center console boat to take for your next fishing trip, or if you need to have a boat that is not as big as a cabin cruiser but sufficient in design and power for a family outing, then you may want to consider the SeaHunter 35 or the Contender 33T. Both boats have a number of features which go against the industry “norm” and both brands are known for producing quality vessels. Here are some of the comparable features to help you decide which vessel is the best for your boating needs between SeaHunter vs Contender boats.
The similarity
When looking at the 35 SeaHunter and the Contender 33T there are a few similarities. For one, both boats have opted not to follow the current trend by having steps. Both are considered to be among the top center consoles as they are 33 and 35 feet long. The rides of both boats are relatively quiet, though there are some who would argue that the Contender boat does give a bit less noise. In terms of power, both the Seahunter 35 and the Contender 33 are fitted with outboard motors, generally 3 is standard.
Both the SeaHunter and the Contender boats for sale are primarily designed for the angler. This means that you get the rod holders on a 360 configuration, that the bow of the boat is optimized for casting, and that you have full access to the bow, stern, port, and starboard with minimal obscurities. Keep in mind that not all of the SeaHunter boats or the Contender boats will have fishing packages, navigation, and hardtops/T Tops. Look for vessels which have such packages when searching for pre-owned vessels.
The SeaHunter 35
The design of the SeaHunter 35 varies from that of the Contender 33, first in the length. While 2 feet may not appear to be a great deal of space, the seasoned boater understands that 2 additional feet on the deck is rather a lot. In addition to the obvious O.L, the SeaHunter has a deep V design while the Contender 33 is a bit less defined when looking at SeaHunter vs Contender. Materials for the construction of the boat are fiberglass and Kevlar with gelcoat. For a boat of this size, this translates into a lighter vessel and higher speeds.
Hull construction is intended to be durable. And while the inflexible material may appeal to some, others may find that the non-giving materials make landing and any scraping unbearably loud. There is foam fill in the construction of the boat, but this does little to muffle landings. Buyers should keep this in mind, especially if that person is considering the boat large lake fishing or for Gulf fishing (where the water is a bit shallower in places and more apt to scrub the base of the hull).
The Contender 33
As hinted in the SeaHunter section, the Contender offers a bit softer of a landing due to the absorbency/flexibility of the hull material. The flex is not so much as to cause the integrity of the boat to be questioned, but does allow for the shock of the boat to be absorbed and for quitter lands. In terms of the overall design, the contender does have a smaller deep than that of the SeaHunter.
The Contender 33 allows for twin engine fitting (as does the SeaHunter though it is not advised). Usually power is in the form of a Yamaha, and seeing as how the 350 is popular, those who are seeking new power in a CC may find pre-owned vessels with such. Yet, the more probable will be that the boat is equipped with the older 250s. In terms of the MPH, the contender (depending on the motor configuration) can push 60 easily, but fuel consumption should be considered, as it is a tad higher than that of the SeaHunter.
Where to find your SeaHunter or Contender
Whether you are looking for the stronger hull and the power advantage of the SeaHunter or for the lighter landing and optimized layout of the Contender (as many people have stated that the Contender fairs better and the SeaHunter in maximizing the deck space), you can find your next boat on Vessel Vendor. Vessel Vendor specializes in providing quality pre-owned boats for sale from boat enthusiasts. Additionally, if you wish to compare the various SeaHunter vs Contender boats, as there are more than just the two mentioned above, please look at the boat review pages, manufacturer review pages, or location pages to find the best fit for your needs.
If you have a SeaHunter 35 or a Contender 33 vessel that you wish to list with the site, or if you have any inquires about SeaHunters, Contenders or any other vessel on the site, please contact Vessel Vendor by filling out the appropriate form on the site.
Read SeaHunter Boat Reviews Why You Should Buy a Used Contender for Sale