Aluminium is the ideal construction material for water vessels; from fishing boats to workboats, luxury vessels to patrol boats. It offers a great scope of customisation for size and shapes with a lightweight build. They are also easy to maneuver in the water and offer great versatility. If you’re out looking for the best aluminium boat to purchase to ensure that every cent you spend on it is worth it, here are some of the things you should look out for when you decide to buy your dream tinnie boat.

Hull Type

Aluminium boats usually have a V-shaped hull. If you want more seating options for 5 to 6 people or you usually fish salmon, bass, trout, catfish, and such, a deep V model can suit you perfectly. The deep V model helps you run through giant waves smoothly while the deep hull offers better comfort while hauling during your big catch.

A modified-V model is more suitable for 2-4 people and can efficiently run in shallow waters better than deep V-hull. It can deliver high-end performance, especially when you move through small waves. Its more extensive and higher deck enables you to use more casting area. Moreover, mode-V boats are easy to maneuver than other vessel types. The hull design allows you to navigate smaller, narrower waterways easily.

Cracks in the Welds

Aluminium boats are constructed using aluminium sheets and cutouts that are welded together.  Therefore, take a look along all the key welding lines to ensure there are no cracks.

Quality of Welds

Check the quality of welding on the boat. If the boat has poor welding, it’s likely to be more prone to stress cracks and deterioration in the future. You’ll find Australian boat brands such as Surtree, BarCrusher, and Quintrex usually have great welds. It’s common for low-cost boats that are mass-produced offshore to have poor-quality welds.

Galvanic Corrosion

Aluminium isn’t a metal that rusts, however, if it comes in contact with hard metals or stray terminal tackle such as sinkers, hooks or swivels then galvanic corrosion can occur. Therefore, be sure to check the inside of the hull, under the carpet (if possible) of under the hull for signs of galvanic corrosion.

The Thickness of Aluminium Sheets

The thickness of aluminium used to construct the boat is also a contributing factor to the quality of an aluminium boat. If information is available, ask the boat dealer or the owner (if it’s a used boat) if he knows the thickness of the aluminium used within the hull. 

Why does this matter? Well, this is due mainly to the fact that the thicker the aluminium is, the more rigid and sturdy the boat will be.  There will also be less flex in the boat when riding through rough conditions. Additionally, if you plan to do a lot of beaching, the boat with a thicker hull will be more resistant to scratches and dents compared to a boat that is beached on sand or on the river bank.

Warranty

Most boaters don’t consider the warranty until they are pretty far along in the shopping process. But before pulling the trigger on a new boat, this is something you will definitely want to check out. According to some boaters, the length and terms of the warranty offered by the manufacturer are suggestive of their confidence in their product and willingness to stand behind it. Several suggest that you look for a hull warranty of 5 years. This warranty also includes boat packages which means the trailer and engine you bought at a single price.

Dealer

The dealer may not be the most important factor when determining which boat to purchase. However, it can have a major impact on your ongoing ownership experience. It’s best to go and do business with a dealer with a good reputation and who is knowledgeable, friendly, and courteous.