Aluminum boats offer solid advantages over fiberglass boats because they are stronger, lighter, more efficient to power, easier to repair, and resistant to leaks, corrosion, and rot. Although you will initially invest more in an aluminum boat than other options, this cost will be outweighed over the life of the boat with savings in repairs, gasoline, towing, and maintenance. Whether you are fishing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a sunny day with your family, in fresh and saltwater, aluminum boats are a good value.
Individual fisherman would do well to choose from among the range of aluminum boats because they are easier to handle for one person. These metal boats have a high strength-to-weight ratio so they can be transported behind most ordinary cars and launched into the water by one boater. This versatility increases when you consider that aluminum boats can be upgraded easily. A professional welder can switch motors or add other features, but fiberglass boats cannot be augmented in this way.
The durability of aluminum boats starts with their solid construction. The pieces of molded metal are welded along their seams, rather than riveted, which makes a joint less likely to separate and let in water. By the very nature of metal, these boats survive impacts by slightly deforming into a ding or dent. Fiberglass boats scratch, shatter, or fissure, causing major damage that leads to compromised structural integrity. With metal, either this slight damage can be ignored or simply hammered out. A puncture is quickly fixed with a new welded patch.
Aluminum boats prove a smart investment. Since they are lighter, smaller motors can power them using less fuel, saving you money every time you go out. Aside from regular cleanin, they do not need routine maintenance, such as revarnishing or waxing. Lasting almost indefinitely, they have the highest resale value of any type of family recreational boats. They bring you years of reliable service or return much of your investment through resale. Aluminum boats can even be recycled.
