Boat Builders

Guide to Boat Builders

Boat building companies are prepared to create the perfect boat for your business
By Angela Roe

Explore the wide variety of boat builders before buying. From luxury boat builders to those who specialize in commercial fishing boats or wooden canoes, you can find a boat builder to fit the needs of your business.

Consider more than one option: You can have custom aluminum boats or fiberglass boats created or you can choose to purchase boats from a manufacturer or dealer. With each option coming in at a different price point, you'll want to review all of your options before you reach a formal agreement.

1. If you have the money, consider custom boat construction.

2. Review customer satisfaction when choosing boat manufacturers.

3. Look at the experience and expertise of each commercial fishing boat builder.

Action Steps

The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out the variety offered by custom boat builders Take your ideas and find a custom boat builder to turn those thoughts into reality. Working with a custom boat builder allows you to address your customer needs while maintaining control of the process including the budget.

I recommend:  Ellis Boat Company has the expertise to build your custom boats from scratch or by starting with one of their basic designs and customizing it to suit your needs. Len Blower Services is a good example of custom aluminum boat builders. They'll help you with fabrication and welding to create the precise aluminum boat you have in mind.

Buy boats from highly-regarded boat manufacturers with broad product offerings Talk to previous customers when you're considering purchasing from a boat manufacturer, especially if you're thinking of purchasing more than one boat. Ask the boat owners what they liked and disliked about the process and what problems they experienced since they've purchased their boat. Find out how the manufacturer dealt with those problems before you sign on the dotted line.

I recommend:  Stingray has a large inventory of boats including open bow, cruisers and sport boats to meet all of your boating supply needs. Hawkeye Boat Sales stands ready to meet your needs with custom boats and cruisers alike.

Select the best boat building company for your commercial boat needs Consider every aspect of the building process when you're shopping for a commercial fishing vessel. Not only do commercial fishing boats take a beating in a way no other boats do, they have to be able to house your crew, your supplies and your safety equipment as well as all of the fishing gear.

I recommend:  BreakSea Boats has a huge facility and specialized equipment ready to create the exact commercial boat you have in mind to meet your business needs. Cheticamp Boat Builders specializes in commercial fishing boats and will build according to your plans or help you design the plans for your fishing boat.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Consider boat manufacturers who can supply you with used inventory as well as new inventory. When you're planning on renting the boats, choosing used boats may make more sense than purchasing new boats.