Author
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Topic: New Whalers constucted as well as "classics?"
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LL |
posted 02-01-2002 08:08 AM ET (US)
I'm in the market for a 13' Whaler and had been considering looking for a used model. However, package for a new 13 with galv. trailer and 40 hp merc at less than $10k seems pretty tempting. What are the pros and cons of going with new vs. used (on hull itself as opposed to outboard)? Although I have been boating for almost 15 years (I currently own a Ski Nautique inboard ski boat and a Laser sailboat) and have been in Whalers, I do not know very much about the technical aspects of these boats. For example, Boston Whaler has been through many owners and it is apparent looking at photos of the new 13 that it is somewhat different from the 13s of the 80s and early 90s. I am also aware that the production site was moved from Boston (I actually met Charles Laughton of CML when CML owned Boston Whaler, Nordic Track and the Nature Stores) to Fla. How does the design of the new 13s compare with the "original" 13 insofar as hull performance is concerned? Additionally, are the construction techniques the same or better?If the new 13s are as good (or better) than the older models in terms of performance and construction, I'll probably go with a new one (don't have to worry about the outboard). If not, I may look for a used one. What would be the "best" years for a used one? TIA
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JBCornwell
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posted 02-01-2002 09:42 AM ET (US)
Howdy, LL. I can't speak for the new designed hulls, but the new production of classic designs is better in at least two ways:Imbeds in the hull to anchor screws are Whaleboard, rather than wood. It holds better and never rots. Rails are welded at joints, reducing the need to tighten them up after every long run in chop. The 70s and 80s-built hulls are bettr looking because of the teak or mahogany trim, but the wood requires maintenance. Quality control? I think it is about the same. My son's 2000 Montauk seems as well built as my '80 Montauk. Others may have noticed other differences. Red sky at night. . . JB :) |
jbtaz
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posted 02-01-2002 09:48 AM ET (US)
I have a new 2002 13 sport with a 40 Merc EFI 4 stroke. The package is awesome and the quality and construction is great. I recommed it with the bow rail and comfort package. |
tbyrne
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posted 02-01-2002 09:52 AM ET (US)
While many here will disagree, I like the new 13 Sport better than the classic. I have owned both - a 1975 Classic 13 and a 2000 13 Sport. I had the Classic 13 for a few years, but got tired of getting beaten to death in the short chop on the Long Isand Sound. After a few years, with an 18' Outrage, I bought the 2000 13 Sport. THe new 13 rides much better due to the modified V-hull; it has more functional storage (deep bow locker and console with shelf); and it has clearer front and rear decks for fishing (battery and fuel tank fit under seat). I'll admit that it's not as atttractive as the Classic due to the lack of wood, but there is no annual scraping and varnishing to be done.With that said, I am selling my 13 Sport if you are interested. I need a bigger boat for a growing family. Look under "Marketplace" - I'll pull the listing back to the top with an updated post. E-mail me if you have any questions about my 13 or the new 13 in general. |
Chris
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posted 02-04-2002 12:09 AM ET (US)
Where on LI are you? I would like to the see boat. |
tbyrne
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posted 02-04-2002 10:01 AM ET (US)
I am on the other side of the Sound, in Eastern Connecticut. Where in LI are you? I am originally from Wantagh and get down there every 6-8 weeks. E-mail me if you'd like to try and get together and look at the boat. The boat is in excellent condition, with about 60 hours on the rig. I have detailed maintenance records, too. |
Chris
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posted 02-05-2002 01:48 PM ET (US)
Miller Place NY
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tbyrne
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posted 02-06-2002 08:44 AM ET (US)
If you are seriously interested, I can run the boat across to Orient Point some (warm) day for a water test. Do you typically boat in the Sound, between the forks or in Great South Bay? |