Seaswirl Striper: A Worthy Boat?

The Seaswirl Striper is a popular choice for fishing and cruising enthusiasts, with its spacious cabin and cockpit, comfortable amenities, and powerful performance. It offers a versatile range of models, from 20 to 30 feet, catering to various activities like saltwater fishing, freshwater fishing, and overnight cruising. The brand is known for its saltwater fishing, walkaround, cuddy cabin, and dual console models, with moderate drafts and average beams. While some owners rave about their positive experiences with the boat's handling and features, others have encountered issues with the wiring, hardware sealing, and pulpit rot. Ultimately, the Seaswirl Striper is considered a solid mid-tier option, delivering a lot of value for money.

Is the Seaswirl Striper a good first boat?

The Seaswirl Striper is a good option for a first boat, especially for fishing enthusiasts. It is a solid mid-tier boat that offers a lot of value for money. The Seaswirl Striper comes in various sizes, ranging from 20 to 30 feet, with an average length of 24.01 feet, making it a good choice for first-time boat owners who want a smaller, more manageable vessel.

One of the key advantages of the Seaswirl Striper is its versatility. It is well-suited for a range of activities, including saltwater and freshwater fishing, day cruising, overnight cruising, and watersports. The boat's design, with a spacious cockpit and comfortable cabin, makes it ideal for both fishing trips and family outings.

In terms of performance, the Seaswirl Striper is generally well-regarded. Owners appreciate its nimble handling and smooth ride, even in rough seas. The boat's outboard models are particularly favoured for their open deck space and larger built-in bait tanks. However, it's important to note that some owners have reported issues with specific aspects of the boat. For example, the wiring may need attention, and the bow pulpits are prone to rot due to inadequate sealing.

When considering purchasing a Seaswirl Striper, it is essential to have a survey conducted by a competent marine surveyor. This will help identify any potential issues, such as dry rot or problems with the transom, which have been noted by some owners. Overall, the Seaswirl Striper is a good option for a first boat, offering a combination of performance, versatility, and value.

What are the pros and cons of the Seaswirl Striper?

The Seaswirl Striper is a well-known boat model line by Seaswirl, a yacht and boat builder. The Striper line has been on the market since at least 1997 and was discontinued in 2016. The boats range from 20 to 30 feet in length, with the most popular models being 21 to 29 feet. The boats are used for saltwater and freshwater fishing, day cruising, overnight cruising, and watersports.

Pros

The Seaswirl Striper boats are described as "solid mid-tier boats" that give "a lot for your money". They are also said to handle rough seas well and are "safe and fun". The outboard models are preferred over the I/O models, as they provide more space and are less prone to transom cracking. The boats are also said to have a good ride, be nimble, and have a good range (200-mile range on a 130-gallon tank).

Cons

The main issues with the Seaswirl Striper boats seem to be related to the wiring, hardware, and sealing. The wiring can be a mess and may need cleaning up, and the hardware is good but the factory rarely sealed it properly. The bow pulpits are also prone to rot due to a lack of sealing. Some users have also reported shearing issues when the boat is on a step and hits a boat wake. The fit and finish are good but don't expect a Grady or Whaler quality.

What engine should the boat have?

When it comes to the Seaswirl Striper, there are a few things to consider when choosing an engine. Firstly, it's important to note that Seaswirl offers different models with various engine options, including outboard, outboard-4S, outboard-2S, inboard, and inboard/outboard. The most suitable engine type will depend on factors such as intended use, performance requirements, and personal preferences.

For saltwater use, an outboard engine is generally recommended for the Seaswirl Striper. Outboard engines are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance, making them a popular choice among boaters, especially in saltwater environments. They are also easier to service and provide better access for repairs compared to inboard engines. Additionally, outboard engines offer more flexibility in terms of mounting options and can be tilted up to avoid damage when navigating in shallow waters.

However, it's worth considering the specific model of the Seaswirl Striper as different models may have different engine configurations. For example, the Seaswirl Striper 2101 Dual Console OB, as suggested by its name, is typically paired with an outboard engine. On the other hand, models like the Seaswirl Striper 2601 Walkaround I/O indicate an inboard/outboard configuration.

When choosing an engine for the Seaswirl Striper, it's essential to take into account the boat's intended use. If you plan to use the boat primarily for fishing and cruising, an outboard engine with sufficient horsepower to handle the load and provide a smooth ride would be ideal. Additionally, fuel efficiency and range should be considered, especially if you plan to venture out to deeper waters or go on extended cruises.

It's also worth noting that some Seaswirl Striper owners have expressed preferences for certain engine brands. For example, one owner recommends avoiding Bayliner and Trophy, while another suggests Volvo Penta as a reliable option. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a marine mechanic or a surveyor to get expert advice based on your specific needs and the condition of the boat.

What is the price range of the Seaswirl Striper?

The price of a Seaswirl Striper boat varies depending on the model, age, and condition. As of November 2024, pre-owned Seaswirl Striper boats are advertised for sale online within the price range of $9,499 to $159,000, with the lower end of this range being for more modest boats, and the higher end being for more sophisticated yachts.

For example, a 2004 Seaswirl Striper 2101 Dual Console OB with a price drop of $1,755 in September 2023 was offered for sale at $9,499. On the other hand, a 2016 Seaswirl Striper 270 offered for sale in New Rochelle, New York, in August 2023, is at the higher end of the price range at $159,000.

The price of a Seaswirl Striper boat also depends on its length, with smaller boats measuring 20 feet in length generally being more affordable than larger boats measuring 30 feet. The type of boat hull and propulsion system can also impact the price, with deep vee and monohull designs, and outboard, outboard-4S, and inboard/outboard propulsion systems being popular options.

What is the best model of the Seaswirl Striper?

Seaswirl Striper boats are well-known for their saltwater fishing, sport fishing, walkaround, cuddy cabin, and dual console capabilities. They are also popular for day cruising, freshwater fishing, and watersports. The best Seaswirl Striper models include the 2901, 2101 Dual Console OB, 2301 WA, 2901 WA, and 2601. These models offer a range of features and suit various activities.

The 2901 model is a walkaround boat with excellent fishing features and ample space. The 2101 Dual Console OB provides a stable ride and is well-suited for cruising and fishing. The 2301 WA is a versatile boat with a deep vee hull, making it ideal for saltwater and freshwater fishing. The 2901 WA offers a spacious layout and is perfect for overnight cruising and fishing. Lastly, the 2601 model is a centre console boat that provides a comfortable ride and is equipped with features for fishing enthusiasts.

When choosing the best Seaswirl Striper model, consider your intended activities, the boat's features and specifications, and your personal preferences. Each model has unique characteristics that cater to different needs and preferences. It is essential to research and compare the available models to make an informed decision.

Frequently asked questions