*** Aluminum Boat Manufacturers - Rated? ***

[SmokinBarrel]

If you had to rate the following boat manufacturers, how would you rate them based on reputation, quality, etc...? The style of boat is what I call the "North West" style fishing boat.

North River
Hewescraft
NorthWest
ThunderJet
WeldCraft
Alumaweld

I am getting ready to purchase a North Western style boat, and need to get a general idea how the boat manufacturer stack up. Being that I am from the Midwest, we do not have these style of boats around, and am seriously considering getting one of these boats. Specifically, models:

Sea Runner (Hewescraft)
ThunderJet (Luxor, or Alexis Offshore)

I am considering a 20' or 22' (extended transom) with a Yamaha 150 4-Stroke. Will this be sufficient?

 

[5150abf]

Re: *** Aluminum Boat Manufacturers - Rated? ***

Don't know about those boats but i would call each company and see if they are still in buisness.

The last year and a half has really hit boat makers hard and that may narrow the feild.

That would stink to pick a brand only to find they are ot of buisness.

 

[dave11]

Re: *** Aluminum Boat Manufacturers - Rated? ***

I have a dual console Alumaweld. It is a lifetime boat. Excellent fit and finish. I ordered the boat from a dealer 1500 miles away sight unseen. I couldn't be happier with it. My heirs will have to decide what to do with it.

 

[newbster]

Re: *** Aluminum Boat Manufacturers - Rated? ***

North River made some nice boats before going out of business. I'm pretty sure all of them are welded 1/4 plate construction and are quite solid.

 

[SNye45]

Re: *** Aluminum Boat Manufacturers - Rated? ***

I live in the Northwest and looked at some of the makes that you mentioned when deciding on my present boat.

Hewescraft - A well made boat but I thought it was very utilitarian -too much so for my liking.

Alumaweld (Intruder)- A good boat with good finish, however, I thought it was a bit pricey.

Weldcraft - (personal choice) but didn't like the interior configuration.

ThunderJet - well made boats with a lot for you money -grab rails all around - offshore mount,windshield wipers, interior carpets as standard.

After my search I ended up buying a 20ft ThunderJet Luxor with a 115hp Suzuki. The 115hp is great for 2/4 people and very economical, it tops out at 36mph, quite fast enough for me, as I cruise at 25mph. However, 150hp would be a good motor to put on it as the hull is rated for 225hp.

All in all I am very happy with the Luxor, its finish, and layout. I have already christened it (slightly) as the wind blew me into the dock as I was docking, but that is why I bought aluminum as there is no damaged gellcoat to deal with

Also I considered the total weight when buying the boat as I didn't want to have to change my tow vehicle - Toyota Tacoma V6 4x4. It tows just fine
Just my 2 cents worth , but good luck with your search