Brand and model rankings...

[Tempest]

I had posted this in the Glastron section earlier but, being that I am looking for as much info as possible and that other brands are being mentioned, it can reach more members of the community if I posted here. Please feel free to share your experiences, opinions and beliefs...


As I'm sure everyone here has done the same, I've built/priced out every possible boat/combo out there and have become confused as a result. So much so that I had seriously considered a Chaparral/Scarab very recently. I keep hearing that Glastron is an entry level boat or a first time boat buyers choice but, can someone please explain how that is? With the recent Scarab fiasco I'm solidly back in the Glastron camp.
I've read about how Glastron fit/finish is spotty, how Chaparral's attention to detail is superior, how Scarab is high-end but, I've found several posts for all the brands with loose screws, seats, etc... not mention potential for catastrophic failure. Aren't Glastron and Scarab built side by side too?
I am enamored by the retro styling of the Glastron and love the dash and retro pull switches and overall look of the thing.
In looking at the other manufactures I've become aware of the advanced technology packages, swim platform radios, touchscreens etc... Honestly, they do nothing for me. They all price out within a few hundred dollars of each other in MSRP, so what is it that sets them apart? In my opinion the GTS 207 is flat out gorgeous and appears well appointed in a purists sense, which I am. And go...

 

[subysti]

I know when I was looking 3 years ago the Yamaha came out thousands less then everyone else. You really need to get the spec sheets and talk to the dealers about what is included in the price. A lot of standard items with the Yamaha are options with the other brands. Also I like the Yamaha reliability and 1 manufactuer for the whole boat, Yamaha hull and Yamaha engines. There have been a few posts on here about people going back and forth with warranty claims and th dealer saying its a brp problem and then brp saying its the boat maker issue. Btw on my 3rd year and boat hasn't been back to the shop once. Couple minor issues but never anything that kept me off the water.

 

[Bruce]

Any BRP powered boat is still a BRP powered boat. The answer is simple, buy whatever new or used Yamaha fits in your budget. You will have less trouble and more fun. BRP exited the boat business for a reason. It was not because their designs were too good, solid, reliable, etc.

Unless you want a center console for rough water fishing. In that case @ClemsonTiger may have a point.

 

[BlackandTan]

You'll get as many opinions as there are boats out there. It sounds like you love the GTS 207, and the features of that boat, and don't really value the features of the competing boats. I know the old Glastron's have terrible reputations, but I've seen reviews of the newer boats that indicate good initial quality. I'll own a Yamaha as long as I own a boat, I don't think you can get much better reliability, I haven't had one major issue with mine. But buy the one you love, and if you're worried about it buy an extended warranty.