Crestliner Boats: Are They Worth The Hype?

Crestliner is a brand of all-welded aluminium boats that are popular with fishermen in North America. The company was founded in 1946 and has been manufacturing boats for over seven decades. While opinions vary, most owners are happy with their purchase and would recommend Crestliner boats. The boats are known for their durability, affordability, and versatility, making them a good choice for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

Crestliner boats are made from welded aluminium, which is seen as more durable than riveted boats

Welded seams are considered a positive feature by most Crestliner owners, contributing to the boat's durability. They believe that welded seams are less prone to leaking compared to riveted seams, which can get loose over time. Additionally, a welded boat is argued to be stronger and more attractive, without the presence of rivet heads.

While repairs to welded seams are more intensive, a riveted boat may require more frequent fixes due to the potential for leaking rivets. The debate between welded and riveted construction methods is ongoing, with supporters of riveted construction arguing that it does not affect the metal's temper and is easier to repair.

Crestliner's use of welded aluminium is a significant factor in the brand's reputation for building durable, strong, and attractive boats. The welded construction ensures that their boats can withstand harsh conditions and last for decades, making them a popular choice among fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts.

They are a good choice for both saltwater and freshwater fishing

Crestliner boats are a good choice for both saltwater and freshwater fishing. The brand has a long history and a good reputation, with over seven decades of popularity among fishermen. The boats are made of welded aluminium, which is seen as contributing to their durability.

Crestliner boats are marketed as being suitable for both saltwater and freshwater use. The Bay boat line, for example, is described as being ideal for saltwater fishing. The boats' welded seams are also said to help them hold up well to saltwater.

The boats are also designed with fishing in mind. The 1650 Discovery Tiller, for instance, features livewells, rod storage and ample room for equipment. The 1850 Commander Elite is described as being tough enough to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws at it, with an all-welded aluminium hull that can take a beating.

Crestliner boats are also known for their durability. The welded seams in the boats are seen as a positive feature by most owners, who believe it contributes to the boats' durability. The boats are said to be able to "take a beating", with many owners proud to talk about how they "abuse" their boats.

The boats are also designed to be easy to maintain. For example, the 1750 Fish Hawk is described as offering the easy maintenance of all-welded strength, giving peace of mind to focus on fishing.

Crestliner boats are a good value option, with prices ranging from $1,500 to $65,000

Crestliner boats offer a wide range of features that make them a good value option. One of their distinctive features is the use of welded seams instead of riveted seams, which many owners believe contributes to the boat's durability. The rubberized coating on the interior, instead of carpeting, is also praised for being easy on the feet and long-lasting. Additionally, Crestliner boats are known for their ample storage space, quiet ride, and faster hulls compared to their competitors.

The company has a strong reputation for innovation and has introduced features such as the Sure Mount Gunnel System and the AP-X hull design. Their boats are divided into several lines, including the Sport & Fish line, the Multi-Species line, the Coastal line, and the Hunt & Utility line, each offering a range of models and features to suit different needs and preferences.

While Crestliner boats have a generally good reputation, there have been some issues reported over the years. Some owners have reported problems with cracked welds, particularly around the transom area in older boats. There have also been issues with transom rot and rotting of wooden floorboards in older models. However, Crestliner has been responsive to these issues and made improvements to their boats over time.

Overall, Crestliner boats offer a good combination of durability, performance, and value, making them a popular choice for fishing and recreational activities. Their long history and continued presence in the market are a testament to their quality and customer satisfaction.

They are a good choice for families, with safety features and ample storage space

Founded in 1946, Crestliner has a long history and a good reputation. The company is known for its durable, all-welded aluminium boats that are suitable for both saltwater and freshwater use. With a range of models and prices, Crestliner boats are a good choice for families who want a safe and spacious boat.

Crestliner boats offer ample storage space, making them ideal for family outings and fishing trips. The 1650 Discovery Tiller, for example, has plenty of livewell room, rod storage, and space to put your belongings. The 1750 Fish Hawk is another excellent option for families, with its multiple livewells and optional ski pylon for towing activities. The 1850 Sportfish is also worth considering, as it can be converted from a fishing boat to a ski boat in seconds, providing versatility for families who enjoy different water activities.

In terms of safety, Crestliner boats are constructed with welded seams instead of rivets, which contributes to their durability. The all-welded aluminium hull ensures that the boat is strong and can withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, Crestliner boats feature a rubberized coating on the interior instead of carpeting, providing a soft and slip-resistant surface for family members of all ages.

Overall, Crestliner boats offer a combination of durability, safety, and ample storage space, making them a good choice for families who want to enjoy a variety of water activities.

The company has been making boats since 1946 and has a good reputation

Crestliner has been manufacturing boats since 1946 and has established a good reputation for its products. The company was founded by William Morse, Sr. in Little Falls, Minnesota, as The Aluminum Boat Company. It quickly gained recognition as a reliable builder of durable boats with superior performance and long-lasting toughness. Over the years, Crestliner has been dedicated to quality and excellence, constantly innovating and refining its manufacturing methods.

Crestliner initially focused on aluminium fishing boats, leveraging the abundance of aluminium and skilled labour after the Second World War. The company achieved immediate success, generating $135,000 in sales in its first year. Since then, Crestliner has expanded its product line and continued to evolve its construction methods. In 1964, they adopted an all-welded construction technique, enhancing the durability of their boats. They also experimented with fiberglass construction in the 1960s and 1980s.

Crestliner's boats are known for their ruggedness and versatility. The company offers a wide range of models suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, catering to anglers and families alike. Their boats are equipped with features such as ample storage, livewells, and spacious casting decks. Additionally, Crestliner's exclusive toughliner rubberized coating on decks and durable paint finishes set them apart from competitors.

Crestliner boats are also recognised for their durability. The welded seams in their construction provide added strength and are preferred by many owners over riveted seams, which are more prone to leaking. While some issues with cracked welds have been reported, most owners attest to the longevity of their Crestliner boats, with models from the 1970s and 1980s still in use.

Crestliner has a loyal customer base, with many owners expressing satisfaction with their purchases. The boats are considered an excellent value, offering comparable features to more expensive brands. However, some customers have noted a preference for rival brands due to pricing and specific features. Overall, Crestliner's long history, commitment to innovation, and positive customer feedback contribute to its good reputation in the boating industry.

Frequently asked questions