Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Bring Back The Original 17
Posted by Sharky1 on 03/29/10 - 6:56 PM
#1
Why in the world did they do away with the original 17' hull? I hear they cut up the mold. What were they thinking? Must have been the worst decision Whaler ever made. Best all around boat for fishing, diving, skiing, and visiting the Keys! Now with the economy the way it is you couldn't ask for a better boat!
Posted by TommyWhaler on 03/30/10 - 10:24 AM
#2
By "original hull", what year are you referring to?
Posted by Joe Kriz on 03/30/10 - 10:31 AM
#3
The last year for the Classic 17' hull in the recreational series models was early 2002.
In 2002, they changed to the Accu-Trac hull for the recreational series 17' model.
Posted by Binkie on 03/30/10 - 10:42 AM
#4
Customers were probably looking for a better riding boat that didn`t pound.
Posted by Vince56 on 03/30/10 - 12:29 PM
#5
That "original hull" itself improved over the years. I have owned a 1965 16' (approx) for the past 38 years and never got used to the pounding in the chop. I recently bought a 1986 Montauk and I can definatly say the hull has improved some in that respect. After 1986 I have no experience, but I hope the new hull has the stability to go along with the comfort. It's amazing how a big person can climb back into the boat from the water and the boat is so very stable in both of my Boston Whalers.
Posted by Tom W Clark on 03/30/10 - 12:37 PM
#6
Actually, Brunswick Commercial and Government Products was still building the classic 16'-7" Whaler until last year.
Posted by Sharky1 on 03/31/10 - 5:59 AM
#7
I am referring to the hull made in the late 70's until i guess last year when they cut the mold. I have been in the new 17 and don't think the ride is any better. The new hull is much heavier. I reconfigured my 17 Super Sport and moved the seat back a few inches. The ride is much better. I'm from the old school and like the older model. Anyone knows where a late model old style Alert (tiller motor) is for sale get back with me. Then i can stop complaining.
Posted by Tom W Clark on 03/31/10 - 7:02 AM
#8
There is good news and it is twofold:
- Whalers last a very long time. Many Whalers made fifty years ago are still is service.
- Whalers are very popular, especially the classic 16'-7" models, so there have ben hundreds of thousands of them made over a very long production run.
The result of that there will be a healthy supply of used Whalers for you to pick from for the rest of your life and your children's as well.