1994 Hunter Passage 42 | 42ft

The 1994 Hunter Passage 42 is a well-regarded bluewater-capable cruising sailboat that blends spacious liveaboard comfort with practical, easy-to-manage sailing systems. As part of Hunter’s “Passage” series, it features a center-cockpit design, giving it a high, protected helm station with excellent visibility, as well as a generous aft cabin layout rarely found on boats in its size range.

Amazing Grace has received extensive upgrades and thoughtful improvements since purchase. Recent enhancements include a new forward-scanning radar, chart plotter, VHF radio, AIS, wind generator, bilge pump, and a complete replacement of the thru-hull and waste systems.

The engine and generator have been well maintained. Comfort upgrades include new forward and aft air conditioning systems with dedicated water pumps, a new V-berth mattress, cockpit and sun deck cushions, as well as a new inverter and battery bank. New dinghy.  The hull was freshly painted in 2024.

She is fully equipped and ready for coastal cruising or offshore passage making.

*New Dinghy

Design & Construction

The Passage 42 has a solid fiberglass hull with a structural grid system for strength and rigidity, paired with a wing keel that keeps draft moderate while maintaining stability and upwind performance. A pronounced beam carried well aft contributes to generous interior volume and a stable feel under sail.

Rig & Sailing Characteristics

The boat uses a fractional Bermuda sloop rig, known for being forgiving and efficient. Many models feature Hunter’s signature backstay-less B&R rig, which allows a large roach mainsail and easy tuning. Combined with self-tailing winches, deck-mounted line organizers, and often an electric windlass, the boat is designed for short-handed or even single-handed sailing. Underway, the Passage 42 is known for its steady motion, good light-air performance, and comfortable passagemaking speeds.

Deck & Cockpit

The center cockpit is one of the boat’s defining features—deep, secure, and set up for comfort on long passages. A rigid arch often supports the mainsheet traveler, keeping lines out of the cockpit and adding a mounting point for canvas or solar panels. Wide side decks, integrated handholds, and stainless steel lifelines contribute to safe movement underway.

Interior Layout

Below deck, the Passage 42 feels more like a small apartment than a typical 40-foot sailboat. Its two-cabin, two-head layout offers privacy and space ideal for couples or cruising families.

Aft Owner’s Cabin

• A standout feature: a full-beam stateroom with a walk-around queen berth

• Large opening ports for ventilation

• Private ensuite head with separate shower stall

• Abundant storage, including hanging lockers and cabinetry

Forward Cabin

• V-berth with its own head access

• Ample storage and natural light

Main Salon & Galley

• U-shaped dinette to port, often convertible to an extra berth

• Opposing settee or storage cabinetry to starboard

• Well-equipped galley with a three-burner stove/oven, deep sinks, extensive counter space, and large refrigeration capacity

• High headroom and large windows make the interior feel bright and inviting

Overall, the 1994 Hunter Passage 42 remains a popular choice among coastal and extended cruisers for its combination of comfortable living spaces, manageable sailing characteristics, and solid build quality—offering the feel of a much larger boat without sacrificing ease of handling.