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Hi guys, brand new to the forum and love it! When I was 7 or so my dad bought a 1968 13' Whaler. It was our first and last (as of date) boat together. We did so many fishing and camping trips on TN lakes in the old girl. Years went by and she was neglected and set out in the field :( Eventually due to my mother's complaining it was donated to our church. Now I am a father, and living in Florida. It is time for me to get a boat for my son and I for that special bonding. I started kicking around the idea to (out of tradition) look for a vintage '13 Whaler. After some research, I now realize how special and collectible thes guys are! I am a car guy with a vintage Porsche and Land Rover, so I tend to get attached to machinery. An old Whaler will fit right into the family. Are there any threads to point me towards as to what to look for when inspecting one of these old girls?

Thanks guys!

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Seamonkey. They are very difficult to find in good condition so you may have to look into restoring one yourself.

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Oh you're "emotionally attached" to inanimate objects ? Well you're in the right spot, because SO ARE WE ! the 13' Sport is a classic, and a BLAST to drive too ! Pick up a used HULL, and we'll guide you through it, it's the easiest, and most FUN (I think) Whaler to rebuild. GOBS of SUPPORT NOW ON "Whaler Central" ! prior to this site, it was just two whaler owners talking on a gas dock, shrugging shoulders, asking ea. other for information.

mw

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Keep a steady search going on Boattrader as well as EBAY and sooner or later one will show up. I looked for a 6mos before I found mine, but it was well worth the wait :p

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I encourage you to be picky. Take a good look at the gelcoat, upper and lower for cracking. The gelcoat is the only thing that stands between water and the foam inside. A Whaler that's been stored outside, leaves clog the scupper, and the boat fills with water, which finds its way inside through every screwhole and crack. Ask me how I know!

;)

There are lots of deals out there, you just have to pick 'em, and be patient. Right after you buy one, odds are a better one will come into view, for less money! Best wishes on your search!

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Here are some basic questions to ask when looking for a smaller whaler. Be picky and find the the right boat. It will be worth it.


Is the Hull ID plate still on the boat? If so does it start with BWC? This is important as there are a lot of knock - offs of these hulls that are trying to pass as a whaler.
If not are you able find the HIN tag look for a Stencil Number. It is black and can be found right under where the motor is mounted on the inside. If you can find one contact whaler and they can give you a lot of info on the hull.
What condition is the hull in? Shinny and waxed or oxidized and hazy?
Are there any stress cracks showing on the interior or on the transom?
Does the boat still have the OEM gel coat or have it been refinished?
Any crazing showing in the gelcoat?
What condition is the wood interior in? Freshly refined and shinny, showing some age, or peeling and poor?
Does the boat have the OEM bow light and stern light?
Does the boat have an OEM rub rail or a poor after market replacement?
What type of steering is on the boat? The old cables and pulleys or newer style cable or even hydraulic?
What year is the motor? Any idea of how any hours on it? Compression on the Cylinders?
If carbed when was the last time they were rebuilt?
Is the oil in the lower unit clean and new or old? Is it milky in color?
Is there a fuel tank? How large is it? Is it fiberglass, metal, or plastic?
When was the last time the fuel lines where replaced?
When was the last time the battery was replaced?
Are there any cushions? If so what is the condition of them?
Is there any canvas with the boat? If so is it OEM and from W J Mills Co or another aftermarket manufacture?
What condition are the thru-hulls in?
Is there a title for the boat?
Is there a trailer?
What year is it?
What brand is it?
What condition is the trailer in? Is it a painted trailer, galvanized, or aluminum?
What condition are the tires in? New or old and cracked?
What about the axle bearings? Are the recently repacked and greased or in need of service?
Do all the lights on the trailer work?
Do you a title or registration for the trailer?
Does the trailer currently have a license plate on it?

That is just a start as to the things you should ask and get answers to when looking for a small whaler. IF you do not get the answers you like or the price seems out of line walk away there will always be another one. When you find your boat you will know it.

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Thanks for the tips guys. I will not rest until I find the "right" one. I scour over North Florida's Craigslist daily, and keep a sharp eye out while on the road. I am not in a hurry, so I will (try) to be patient. We will see how long that will last...;)

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Being in FLA you should have no problem finding a selection of boats to choose from. go at it patiently - there are plenty of boats out there. Jeff's list is spot on.
What Porsche is it? (sorry, off topic but i could not help myself:p)

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eBay has lots of 13ft BW in FL. Some of them are looking good as restored projeects. eBay Boston Whaler boats and parts should get you there . (:

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I have a '94 Land Rover Defender 90 soft top (will look great with a Whaler behind it), and a '64 Porsche 356 C coupe. My problem is I get emotionally attached to things and never get rid of them. Oh if I only had a bigger garage.......