Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos

Posted by WhalerFella on 08/01/15 - 1:20 PM

Hello all. I have a 1987 17' SSL. I have searched this site and seen several pictures, but I'm hoping someone can just tell me where to buy these items.

1) Swim platform: I know that martinmarinedesign.com has a high quality swim platform that should fit my boat, but it's also 395.00. I'm wondering if anyone has ideas for a swim platform that isn't quite as expensive? Not trying to come off as cheap and I understand the value behind high quality stuff, but just want to see if there is anything else out there that you guys would recommend.

2) I've also seen pics of SSLs with grab bars around the windshields, and I think it's just a matter of time before someone leans on mine and cracks one. If you have info about where to get the ones that fit this model, I would also appreciate that.

Finally, I looked for a way to search previous threads but couldn't find one, so I apologize if this has been hashed out several times here.

Posted by Phil T on 08/01/15 - 5:31 PM

Many owners looking for a inexpensive swim platform choose an over gunnel swim ladder instead. Saves on drilling holes and is removable.

In looking at the Model spec page and seeing the photo, I don't see any rails around the consoles that was OEM.

You may be able to get something fabricated at a custom shop. Given you are in WI, I would call Sue Lodel, Parts Manager at Twin Cities Marine (Whaler Master Dealer) She is great at troubleshooting for owners.

Posted by 44thomas44 on 08/02/15 - 5:42 AM

Martin Marine also makes a nice custom grab rail ( about $ 300 ) . I got mine made without the shepherds crook because my dog likes riding on the cooler . I have pix if you want to see them . Spend the money on the swim platform - best purchase I have made for my boat . Extremely easy to get in and out of boat - very heavy duty , easy to install .

Posted by WhalerFella on 08/03/15 - 6:32 AM

Thanks, 44. And thanks for pointing that out, Joe. I appreciate it. Don't know I missed it earlier. 44, I will grab the swim platfform from martinmarine. I also asked about grab rails and am waiting to hear back.

Posted by NCWhalerOwner on 06/30/16 - 10:56 AM

Did you ever find out about the grab rails over the windshields? Just curious, in the process of updating and modifying my wife's childhood 1988 17 super sport limited.

Edited by Joe Kriz on 06/30/16 - 11:23 AM

Posted by todd12 on 07/01/16 - 1:48 PM

I pieced together my swim platform for a little under $100. Pictures are in my personal page. I think your options are very limited for a off the shelf solution. I would recommend Martin marines swim platform. I bought pipes and teak at a marine salvage yard ( two different radius ) I then had tabs welded so I could through bolt all 4 mounting points. Good luck

Edited by todd12 on 07/01/16 - 1:50 PM