Glastron Boats: Worth The Buy?

Glastron boats are well-known for their distinctive design and enriched history. They are industry mainstays and fan favourites, with a reputation for safety, elegant aesthetics, and watersport capabilities. The company has been building boats since 1956 with one mission: to provide boaters with the best possible experience on the water.

Glastron boats are good. The company has a long history of building high-quality boats, and their unique SSV hull design makes them some of the best-performing boats on the market. Their commitment to quality construction and innovative design features makes them perfect for fishing or leisure.

However, as with any boat, there are some common problems with Glastron boats, including leaks, electrical issues, and scratches. Despite this, they are reliable and durable, and their high-quality materials and construction mean they can withstand years of use.

With their stylish designs, impressive performance, and range of models, Glastron boats are a popular choice for boaters of all kinds.

Glastron's history and reputation

Glastron is a boat manufacturing company founded in 1956 by Bob Hammond, Bill Gaston, Bob Shoop, and Guy Woodard. Glastron was one of the first manufacturers of fibreglass boats, with Bob Hammond recognising the advantages of using fibreglass in boat construction. In 1964, Glastron introduced the first mass-produced fibreglass boat, the now-famous Glastron GT150.

The company's innovative designs and rapid growth in the early years helped spread its reputation for innovation. Glastron introduced its Aqua lift v-hull, a revolutionary new design that offered a smooth and quick-planing performance. By the end of 1953, models with the new hull design accounted for over half of the company's sales.

Glastron's Hollywood debut in the 1966 film "Batman" further cemented its reputation as a cool and forward-thinking brand. The company provided custom boats for several Hollywood productions, including the James Bond films "Live and Let Die" and "Moonraker." In "Live and Let Die," Bond performs a record-breaking 110-foot jump in a Glastron GT-150.

By the 1970s, Glastron had become the sales leader in the industry, operating the largest boat plant under a single roof in the world. The company introduced its signature design feature, the Super Stable Vee (SSV) Hull, which offered superior hydrodynamic performance and stability.

Over the decades, Glastron has continued to innovate and expand, introducing new manufacturing technology and moving to larger facilities in Texas and later to Little Falls, Minnesota. The company's commitment to quality construction, innovative designs, and attention to detail have earned it a reputation as a trend-setter in boat design and a well-recognised brand in the boating community.

The pros and cons of Glastron boats

Glastron boats are distinctive for their American heritage and design. They are a popular choice for boating enthusiasts, but what are the pros and cons of investing in one?

The Pros

Glastron boats have a rich history, with the company building boats for over 60 years. They are well-known for their distinctive, stylish designs, with full windshields and meticulous attention to detail. Their boats are built with quality materials and innovative features, ensuring durability and an impressive performance. The unique Super Stable Vee (SSV) Hull design ensures a smooth, stable ride, perfect for watersports and leisurely cruising.

The boats are designed with a focus on comfort and usability, with spacious seating and durability. They are also one of the only brands to offer three different power types: outboard, jet drive, and jet power, allowing customers to choose the option that best suits their needs.

The Cons

One of the main drawbacks of Glastron boats is the cost. They are generally more expensive than other boat brands, due to their high-quality construction and features. There are also limited customization options, which may be a disadvantage for those wanting a unique boat.

Another issue is their limited dealer network, which can make finding a local dealer or service centre challenging. Additionally, their range of models is quite limited compared to other brands, which may restrict the options for those seeking a specific type of boat.

Finally, while Glastron boats are generally reliable, some common problems have been reported, including issues with the transom and deck in older models, as well as electrical engine problems and fuel pump issues.

Common problems with Glastron boats

Glastron boats are generally well-regarded, with a long history of building high-quality boats that offer excellent performance and durability. However, as with any boat, there are some common problems that can occur, especially with older models. Here are some of the most frequent issues:

Transom Problems:

One of the main issues found in older boats is the transom, which is often made of wood and susceptible to rot. The transom is typically left unprotected from the elements, leading to the need for repairs or replacement. Refitting with marine-grade plywood and fiberglass filler is a common solution, but it requires careful woodworking skills.

Deck and Stringer Issues:

The deck of older Glastron boats can weaken over time, and issues with rotten or weakened stringers are also common. Stringers are the supporting structure beneath the deck, so their deterioration poses a safety risk. Repairs or replacements with marine-grade plywood and epoxy are often necessary.

Hull Problems:

Cracks and blisters on the hull are a significant concern for Glastron boat owners. Repairs involve extensive sanding, applying epoxy resin, and refilling with fiberglass cloth. It is a time-consuming process, but it can restore the hull's integrity.

Electrical Engine Problems:

Some owners have experienced electrical issues with their Glastron boats, including ignition switch problems and battery-related troubles. Regular inspection and cleaning of the battery and wiring are recommended to prevent these issues from becoming major headaches.

Leaking and Scratching:

Leaking due to improper sealing during manufacturing and easy scratching of the gelcoat are also common issues with Glastron boats. While these problems can be fixed by qualified technicians, they are worth noting for prospective buyers.

While Glastron boats have their pros and cons, addressing these common problems can help owners maintain and enjoy their vessels for years to come.

Glastron's unique SSV hull design

Glastron boats are well-known for their unique SSV hull design, which stands for Super Stable Vee. This design is a key reason why Glastron boats perform so well and have earned their legendary status. The SSV hull is quick to plane, with minimal bowrise, and its wide reverse chines allow for precise, stable turning. This is a significant advantage over boats without them, which tend to have a flatter running surface, resulting in a jarring ride with a tendency to slide in turns.

The SSV hull's wide chines extend far forward, reducing rocking from side-to-side and front-to-back when the boat is at rest. This design feature acts as sponsons, providing added stability. In comparison, on most boat hulls, the chines diminish in the forward half of the hull. The SSV hull design ensures consistent sharp handling through lift and stability, making it one of the best hull designs available.

The SSV hull design is not the only area where Glastron boats excel. The company also offers a wide range of power options, including outboard, sterndrive, and jet, allowing customers to choose the option that best suits their needs. Glastron boats are also crafted with a focus on comfort and usability, paying attention to factors such as seating space, layout, and durability.

The history of the Glastron brand further adds to its appeal. Founded in 1956, Glastron was one of the first manufacturers to produce fibreglass boats, and their innovative designs have continued to set trends in the boating industry. Over six decades, Glastron has satisfied boaters with the power and style of their craft, solidifying their reputation as a leading manufacturer of recreational boats.

Resale value of Glastron boats

Glastron boats are American staples in the industry and are usually a fan favourite. They are also one of the oldest and best-established manufacturers, recognised as trend-setters in boat design. The company has a long history of building high-quality boats that are designed to provide years of enjoyment on the water.

The resale value of Glastron boats depends on the model and its condition. You can expect to pay anywhere from $2,986 to $89,090 for a Glastron boat, with prices varying depending on the specific model, upgrades, and condition.

For example, a 2003 Glastron GS 279, 2004 Glastron GS 279, or 2009 Glastron GLS 235 may be more affordable options if you are looking for a used model. On the other hand, newer models with lightweight styles and powerful motors will likely be more expensive.

It is worth noting that older Glastron boats tend to have more issues, such as weakened or rotten transoms, cracks and blisters on the hull, and engine problems. Therefore, when purchasing a used Glastron boat, it is important to carefully inspect the vessel and be aware of potential repairs that may be needed.

Despite this, Glastron boats are known for their durability and long-lasting performance, and their unique designs and features make them a popular choice for boat enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions