Luhrs Boats: Are They Worth The Hype?

Luhrs boats are no longer in production, but they were once popular for their affordability and performance as ocean fishing yachts. Reviews are mixed, with some praising the boats' handling of rough waters and spacious fishing decks, while others criticise their cheap construction and lack of support from the now-defunct manufacturer. Common complaints include small galleys, difficult engine access, and subpar finishes. Despite this, some owners appreciate the boat's unique style, good resale value, and strong engines.

Luhrs boats are good for fishing and cruising

Luhrs boats are a great choice for fishing and cruising. With a long history dating back to the 1970s, these boats have been known for their sturdy construction and affordable pricing. While the company has faced financial troubles and is no longer in operation, their boats remain a popular choice on the used market.

One of the standout features of Luhrs boats is their ability to handle rough waters. Owners and users have praised the boat's performance in choppy conditions, with some describing it as a battleship capable of flattening out 6-foot waves. This makes it an excellent choice for fishing expeditions, providing a stable platform even in less-than-ideal conditions. The spacious fishing deck and cabin offer ample room for both anglers and their gear.

In terms of comfort, Luhrs boats deliver a good balance. While the galleys may be on the smaller side, the interiors generally feature open layouts that provide a sense of spaciousness. The cabins offer a nice retreat for those looking to relax after a long day of fishing or cruising. Additionally, the strong engine options available on Luhrs boats contribute to a comfortable cruising experience.

When it comes to pricing, Luhrs boats are known for being budget-friendly. They offered their boats at a significantly lower price point than their competitors, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers. This also means that depreciation is slower compared to other boats in the same category.

However, it's important to note that the lower price comes at a cost. Some buyers have criticized the boats' finishes, noting that the appliances and fixtures are not of premium quality. Plastic handles, low-budget showerheads, and other small details may require more frequent repairs or replacements. Additionally, the engine hatches on some models can be difficult to access, making maintenance a challenge.

Despite these drawbacks, Luhrs boats present a strong option for those seeking a reliable fishing and cruising vessel. With their sturdy construction, good performance, and affordable pricing, they have earned a loyal following. For those in the market for a used boat, a Luhrs is definitely worth considering.

They are affordable

If you're in the market for a boat, you may want to consider a Luhrs. One of the biggest selling points of Luhrs boats is that they are affordable.

Luhrs boats are known as the "'poor man's sports fishing boat' because they are significantly cheaper than other similar boats. In fact, they often sell for about half the price of comparable vessels from other manufacturers. This affordability has allowed thousands of people to get into boating and fishing at a relatively low cost.

Even when buying used, Luhrs boats are a good deal. They depreciate more slowly than other yachts, so you can sell one a few years down the line without losing as much money as you would with a different boat.

The lower price of Luhrs boats is due in part to the company's decision to cut costs on certain finishes and appliances. Instead of using high-end materials, Luhrs boats have plastic handles and low-budget fixtures. This may be a downside for some buyers, but it also means that you can get a large, functional boat for a very reasonable price.

Another way that Luhrs keeps their prices low is by using either gasoline or diesel engines. While diesel engines are more efficient, gasoline engines are much cheaper, which helps keep the overall cost of the boat down.

If you're looking for an affordable boat that doesn't sacrifice functionality or style, a Luhrs may be the perfect choice for you. With their strong engines, classic designs, and personal style, Luhrs boats offer a great value for the price.

They are well-suited for rough waters

Luhrs boats are well-suited for rough waters. In fact, their reputation for handling rough waters well is one of the most consistent comments about the boats. One owner of a 34' Luhrs says that the only complaint they have about the boat is that it is "a sloppy ride in cross seas". However, another owner of a 29' Luhrs says that they have "fished the Gulf for 9 years and then took it to Costa Rica through the canal" and that it was the "number one catching boat in Golfito".

A user on the Ohio Game Fishing forum says that they have been on an older 32' Luhrs and that it was a "battleship" that "would handle rough water and had tons of room". They go on to say that they have also been on a late 80s 34' Tournament and that, while it didn't have as much fishing space, it was "also great in rough water". Another user on the same forum says that they have been on an "older 32' Luhrs (late 70s or early 80s)" and that it was "fly bridge model" that would "flatten out" 6-foot waves.

A user on the Boating and Fishing Forum says that they have fished offshore in a 32' Express "a dozen times (or more) in the past 3 years" and that the boat is "solid when it is rough". They also say that it "trolls well in slop" and has been a "fish raiser".

Luhrs boats are well-suited for rough waters because they are built like "battleships". One user on the Ohio Game Fishing forum says that they have been on an older 32' Luhrs and that it was a "battleship" that "would handle rough water and had tons of room". Another user on the same forum says that they have been on an "older 32' Luhrs (late 70s or early 80s)" and that it was "fly bridge model" that would "flatten out" 6-foot waves.

The strong build of Luhrs boats is also reflected in the fact that they have strong engines. One source says that the boats are "designed well" and have "strong engines". Another source says that the boats are "built with strong engines" and that the engines are "timeless".

The fact that Luhrs boats are well-suited for rough waters is also reflected in their popularity with charter fleets. A user on the Boating and Fishing Forum says that they have "lately [...] seen more Luhrs showing up in charter fleets". They go on to say that this is probably because Luhrs boats are "solid" and have a "timeless construction".

Overall, Luhrs boats are well-suited for rough waters because they are built like "battleships", they have strong engines, and they are popular with charter fleets.

They have a strong engine

When it comes to the engine, Luhrs boats are known for their strength and reliability. A number of owners have reported that their Luhrs vessels are able to handle rough waters with ease, even in "6'ers" (6-foot waves). The boats are described as "battle[ships]" that can "flatten out" large waves. This is likely due to the strong engine powering the boat, which is designed to handle such conditions.

The engines are also noted for their ability to troll, or slowly fish, for extended periods of time without issue. One owner reports trolling for "150 hours or more a year" with no problems. This is an important feature for fishing boats, as it allows anglers to slowly and quietly move through the water while fishing.

The engines are also designed to be durable and long-lasting. One owner reports having a Luhrs boat with twin 8.1L Crusader big block engines that have lasted for years without any issues. The boat has trolled for "150 hours or more a year" with these engines, and they continue to perform well.

The engines are also easy to maintain and repair, which is important for any boat owner. While some models may have engine hatches that are difficult to access, the engines themselves are generally reliable and require minimal maintenance.

The strong engine of Luhrs boats is a testament to their design and construction. Even though the company is no longer in business, their boats continue to be valued for their engine performance and durability. For those in the market for a used boat, a Luhrs vessel with its strong engine can be a great option, especially for fishing and cruising.

They have poor finishings

One of the biggest complaints about Luhrs boats is the lack of high-end finishes. Although the boat is built like a yacht, its fibreglass work is rough, and the appliances inside are not of premium quality. The little details that separate a luxury boat from a budget boat are missing. For example, instead of metal hatch handles, the company opted for plastic handles. The showerheads are also low-budget. This factor turned many potential buyers away and may have been one of the reasons the company did not survive the recession.

The less expensive finishes allowed Luhrs to sell their boats at a lower price point than the competition. This enabled people who normally wouldn't be able to afford a yacht to get out on the water in an otherwise nice boat. However, the cheaper finishes come at a cost. Plastic hatches and cheap fixtures don't hold up as well and are more likely to break. As a result, Luhrs boat owners will likely spend more on maintenance each year and will need to inspect and repair their boats more frequently.

The engine hatches and engine rooms on some Luhrs models are also poorly designed. They are difficult to access, making maintenance on the engine and generator challenging. This is a significant issue, as used boats typically require more maintenance. Altering the hatch to improve access could make a big difference in working on the engine.

Overall, while Luhrs boats offer a strong engine and good design at a lower price point, the lack of high-end finishes and poor design choices in some areas may lead to increased maintenance and repair costs for owners.

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