Finally someone who knows what a review actually means, not an overview of the features like they’re reading the dealers brochure. Great insight and useful information for someone who is considering this purchase. Thank you.
We purchased the boat without ever haven ridden on a Stabi, we had some amazing help on the #stabicraft forum and were able to meet a couple of folks (you know who you are) that allowed us to look at their boat right before COVID, if you or anyone you know want to check out a Stabicraft in Tampa just let us know.
Thank you both for taking the time to speak with me at Palmetto FL. Look forward to speaking with you again and watching your adventures. Incredible machine. Only wish it was catamaran style.
Wow! As another poster has already said, a REAL review. These are so rare and so valuable. Love your one line summary at the end. It is one I often use - If I had it to do over again, would I do the same thing? It's the best barometer of all. On another note, I am interested to see that you have had so much trouble with your Minnkota. I have a very similar model (maybe identical). Never had a problem. And that includes perhaps half a dozen other Minnkotas before this one. I have used a couple of them often in salt water without a problem. Sorry to hear yours didn't treat you so well.
I live 75 miles from Y-marina. Tried to buy a new Stabicraft from them last year. Contacted them on line and by phone 2x's. They never took me seriously. I ended up buying an unstuck 2250 Ultracab WT from Clemens Marina last March. The Eugene dealership, managed by Mark, is especially good. The boat had to go in for some kinks that weren't worked out at purchase time. Some of those kinks were dealer installed things (Gladstone Clemens) and some were manufacturer issues. They were very thorough and communicated very well. Also, interesting to hear about the stability on plane. I'm dealing with the same issue. I have to ask passengers to limit their movement or give me a heads up so I can be ready to adjust trim tabs. I have twin Honda 150's and get 5-6 miles per gallon at 30 knots. Dean in Roseburg.
I have been interested in Stabi boats for some time now and have had contact with several dealers. Clemens Marina have been very good. I have found Boat Country in Washington to be very helpful as well.
Great review. I've been really interested in this boat. As for Minn Kota, I've got a pair of them. One for my Jon Boat and one for my bass boat. They've both broken down multiple times. Motor Guide has been more reliable for me.
I have owned a 2400 SC for 4 years out here in SoCal and have been very happy. Some of the same gripes, but less so since our weather is a little different. Boat is a near perfect spearfishing platform for me. Concur regarding the corrosion, check all the non-Al bolts intermittently and hit them with some DEFTEK or something equivalent. Thanks for posting about what might be the only Stabi in FL.
LOL small world. We just got done pulling stone crab traps and are taking it back to the house to get ready to take it to crystal river tomorrow for some gag grouper spear fishing and diving.
Thanks for the awesome review! Good to know info! I still would love to get a 2750 Stabi. Great to hear from you guys and looking forward to hearing from you again. Stat safe! Tight lines my friends!
For that step ladder in the back, you might consider in the future cutting off the bottom stair and then using a smaller diameter tube which you could slide into the other two stairs. Drill a hole through both of them and get a stainless steel lock pin to pin in when in use. That way you can have it out of the way of the fishing reels. Obviously the weld is way stronger, but just tossing out an idea.
Hi, thanks for a honest review. around the 6min 27sec mark. Those bubbles are from the stainless screws reacting to the aluminum. looks like they forgot to put Duralc on the screws. You will need to do this ASAP or it will just keep eating away then eventually, the rod holders will just fall off. Seems like a small problem but it's a huge job fixing it because you will also need to sand a lot off where it's reacting then paint.
This was a concern of ours initially as well, and we did a lot of research, talked to several Navy friends as well. Frankly I wouldn’t want to be in ANY boat that gets struck by lightening, which is why avoiding the storm is #1 for us, but FL is FL, especially the Tampa area with lightening, so that’s not always an option. Aluminum v fiberglass I’d take being in an aluminum boat as it allows the strike to get to ground quicker then a glass boat does. In a glass boat the electricity bounces around, usually wrecking havoc on electronics, potentially electrocuting the driver, before either blowing out a through hole or going through the hull. Metal vessels give the electricity a straight path to exit, giving it an automatic ground, preventing the occupants from being struck. With the cabins on the Stabi, the lightening would hit the cabin more then likely and travel the exterior of the cabin down to the water to dissipate. Turns out it’s one of the reasons most naval vessels are metal.
I bought refurbished Ulterra 2017, using every weekend trolling for hours, hit shoals- shaft didn’t even crack, original belt etc, not a single problem. You got a lemon
Finally! A truthful and straight forward review done by a Stabi Owner! Thank you very much for taking the time to make the video. Would there be anyway to video an underway passage in crappy seas? I understand that is sometimes hard to do. Lol Again, thanks!
YES! I would be very interested in an underway in rough seas video. With light boats (relative to their size), my limited experience says they can pound pretty badly.
I have a 112 thrust 72in Minkota Ultera. I had to upgrade my batteries to 100ahr deep cycle. All voltage problems went away. I fish off shore SC typically 8-9 hour trips 21 foot fiberglass boat spot locking on variety of reefs and wrecks. No more problems. Check the amp hours (AHR) of your current batteries
Man I am excited to walk through one in person. I live in Florida and travel all the time. I would love to try and link up and see yours since it's close.
I've been running a Minn Kotta for over 2 yearson a 22 foot fiberglass boat in Australia. One warrantee claim early on motor didn't stow and had to do a manual stow since then all good.. Once you do a manual stow it has to go back to the dealer for repair. Only one repair center in Australia so needed to be removed from the boat and sent to them all a pretty smooth process and good service. I'm currently looking at the Stabi 2250 looked at that Minn Kota mounting, way to much chance of damaging the motor docking on the Port side. I was looking at deleting the port bow rail and mounting it on the bow proper to the port side of the anchor. That lays the motor down the port walkway but rather interrupt the walkway than hook the motor on a pile.
I find a 36V 72" 112lb minn kota is not always able to hold a 6.35M 1300kg (hull weight) fiberglass boat with a single Yammie 200. I recently checked out a Stabi 2750 at a local dealer, it's huge. I am surprised minn kota support their motors to be fitted to a boat this size. If you have some lithiums with BSM with bluetooth you can monitor the current draw. Alternatively you can put a shunt and monitor the current. On a boat your size with twin engines it maybe a better bet to use the helmaster with the position hold features. This does put more hours on the engines but your using them a load anyway. It will also remove your docking issue. But clearly running engines is a problem when diving. However it maybe you can use a remote kill switch such as a Fell marine. If one of you wears a remote kill switch and enters the water first, engines on with wrist band active. The engines should stop. If the 2nd person restarts the engines and engages position hold not wearing a kill switch and then dives over the side. When you surface the person wearing the kill switch can remote stop the engines to facilitate climbing back up the rear ladder. Worth chatting to Yamaha and Fell since I am sure it is a problem many would like solved.
I like the way Stabi utilizes space. Even the small boats seem to fish and perform like bigger boats. I have entertained the idea of something in the 18 foot range. I live in NC so my biggest question is how did you guys rationalize buying a boat so far away from the selling dealer? How would you get warranty work done if welds cracked or some other problem arises?
Megan here. I have to tell you, this was the number ONE concern I had when looking at the boat. But honestly, we had a few minor issues in the first year (dealer warranty) and the Y took care of it. Generally it involved us taking it to a local shop, they inspected it, performed the repair and we submitted the receipt to the Y and they mailed us a check. The engines are under Yamahas warranty and we have a million Yamaha shops here in FL so no issue there. Quality of the Stabis we had ZERO issues with the welds.
I'm really curious about how an amphibious system, such as Sealegs would work on this size boat. I know they work really well with smaller models, unfortunately, I don't see too many examples of these systems on bigger models. Thanks.
Sealegs do look awesome. We trailer all over so the extra weight of that system didn’t make sense for us both on the road and then when we have to run out 60 miles to get into deep water.
Sealegs have designed a larger system - here is an example built by Senator, another NZ Boat builder local to me ruclips.net/video/-tEkffNuJDA/видео.html
The tool holder is by a company called SeaSucker, and it really does come in handy, keeps everything accessible and dryer then in the drawer. Never had an issue with it becoming unstuck. The scuba tank/speargun holder we purchased from a local dive shop, I’m not 100% sure of the brand, I think it was Max Holding, the arms flip up to allow you to remove the tanks. However SeaSucker makes tank holders too. In rough waters we will bungee or tie them to the rail as an added safety precaution, but also never had an issue with tanks falling out. Only thing I will say is that the spear gun holders are a little tight on our model, which is both good and bad.
I am slightly below you in Bradenton/Sarasota and have been looking at Stabicraft. I like the review. Don't like how the wife keeps interrupting you. I have tried doing RUclips vids with my wife and she does the same thing....
What size are your trim tabs? They look like 12" wide x 9" deep lenco tabs. I am looking to get a 24ft stabicraft and lencos website is recommending 18" wide x 9" long tabs. Do you find the tabs you have are aquequate for your boat ?
99% sure they use automotive paint. If you repaint with the same, there are some clear coatings used for front bumpers and hoods of cars that are rubberized that are super tough.
Thanks for the great review! I am on the other side of the gulf in Texas. Looking at the 1850 fisher and supercab. Trying to make sure it vents well in the heat. Your video is the first I have seen that addresses it, thank you! Any thoughts between the two models ? Also, where did you get the boat catch in Texas ?
While I am sure you are talking about the main unit that attaches to the trailer, please note that the bow piece on the boat itself is a factory option if you order a boat from Stabicraft.
Well, it broke again, twice, after the video was made. They replaced the entire lower unit and shaft the last time. The lower was filled with water from a bad seal, which in talking with some other owners, appeared to be a known manufacturer defect they never said anything about. So, crossing our fingers. It held up for an entire week in the keys, and for a long offshore trip. So maybe? Lol. And what do you want to see about the boat and we will see what we can do.
Thanks for the review. I was looking at them. What does one of those cost just like you have it if you dont mind telling. BTW- I have had a min kota for 4 years on my boat with no issues.
Are you still running your Minn Kota? I just wonder if you have considered replacing it with a Garmin Force Kraken. They have a model designed for deep-vee/high-freeboard boats.
Interesting that most of the issues you were having come down to the fact that you are using a boat in the tropics that is designed and built at the very bottom of New Zealand - last stop before Antarctica! I'm sure now the guys from Stabicraft are exporting these to the likes of Florida they will probably rectify some of the issues you are having. A lot of the Ali boat builders here in NZ are now vinyl wrapping their boats instead of painting.
This boat is incredible. Questions for you. Why did you go for this over a more available (on the east coase) parker pilot house or equivalent? Was it the aluminum or other features? Thanks.
Parkers are nice but we wanted an aluminum hill first and foremost. On a Parker I had to duck down to see through the main windshield and I’m only 6’ tall. I wanted a cabin I could easily see through from the back deck. Lastly we felt that we were getting more boat for the same amount of money.
Sorry if I missed it in an earlier post, but how did you obtain a Stabicraft in Florida? I'd love to get a hold of a 1450/1550 Explorer, but Oregon seems to be the closest dealer.
@@FishForageHunt That's what I thought about the purchasing. How did you get the support and service after then? Just hope they will have an east coast dealer in the future. Thx
I was thinking of buying the 2750 but have never rode in one so I can't compare it to say a Worldcat catamaran. Have you ever been on a Worldcat and can compare the two? The Worldcat is unbelievably stable in really rough seas. My brother has a Worldcat 266 and it eats 6 ft seas like nobody's business. In fact, the faster you run, the smoother the ride because it forces the air in the tunnel and gives a great cushion. No banging your guts out like most mono-hulls. I'm torn because I really like the Stabi but know the Worldcat performance is the best. Any thoughts?
Great feedback. I got out in a 2500 last week and the seats seemed to rock back and forth more so than other boats. Is that something you have experienced?
Actually wouldn’t change a thing. The fuel efficiency of the dual 200s is great at 2.3-2.6 mpg at cruising speed WOT about 1.2, it takes us about 60 miles to get to 120ft here in the gulf (crazy I know) so fuel efficiency, (especially with current gas prices) is crucial. We also get washing machine waves almost all the time (like 1-2second intervals with winds blowing in the opposite direction) so there are very few times we can even go WOT. With our distance I don’t think I would go lower, and we don’t really see the need to go higher.
Just be careful to fold the ladder That extra length you added can cause serious damage while towing ,especially while crossing hump or a steep driveway
We keep it bungee corded to the handrail in the back whenever it’s not in use just to avoid that situation, don’t want to hit it, and don’t want it flipping down on the highway either!
Nice review! Been looking to getting a 2750 myself and this was a ton of help. Just out of curiosity, do you know if the 2750 has a variable deadrise (deadrise at bow entry, forward, and stern)?
I’m not sure on the variable dead rise of the 2750. The Stabicraft fan page on Facebook is a great place to ask and they are all really helpful and inviting.
Get a wrap instead of paint or just get it without either. I live in Michigan & had the only Stabi a 1650 fisher. But recently sold it because of my physical problems now. But the best part of a Stabi is the safety on the water.
HI from NZ. SORRY to hear you have had so many issues with your Stabicraft. Have you talked to them about your concerns? I hope you do if you have not.as they will take your concerns on board. I don't appreciate the sarcasm coming from Meagan, but I can understand the feeling of frustration and disappointment.. I'm not sure I want to watch the rest of the video if that is the continuing tone I am going to hear. These boats are built down in Invercargill which is in a very cold climate. It looks like there are design changes needed for a much warmer climate like uours. This boat has been tested in Foveaux Strait and Cook Strait which incidentally are both considered some of the most dangerous waters in the world. Maybe that is where they have invested a lot of their time in making a boat that can still float when fully flooded. I have experienced both straits in rough seas and would be happy to ride out the storm in a Stabicraft boat. In 2012 we lost 5 people in Foveaux Strait in one go. They would have had a good chance of survivial in a Stabicraft boat. I wouldn't be worried about the paint and trim when my boat was in a storm. l want to know if it can ride the storm and stay afloat!. Yet, I agree the strip should be attached better and there should be patch up paint offered with the boat. Maybe you bought the wrong boat for your needs and expectations. What caused you to buy this boat in the first place? If it is full filling that then get the niggles fixed. Otherwise....SELL IT! Don't let it keep eating away at you and your marriage!
Not sure if you watched until the end. We said we ultimately love our boat and would not have changed a thing about the process or buying the boat. We knew the paint was an issue before we bought. We are pet of a Facebook group where lots of people had the same issues. This review is designed to give an honest assessment of what we found in using our boat Florida. There are lots of people interested in Stabicraft here after they see the boat so it’s important they know about the little things. I’ve put 500 hours on it as of this weekend and continue to love its versatility. Have a great day and thanks for the comment.
You are a very strange person! However much you watched, what you saw is a REAL review. No problems for me with anything Meghan said, content or tone of voice. You seem very judgmental and IMHO did not do a very careful job to match your comments to the video. Starting with your first line "SORRY to hear you have had so many issues with your Stabicraft". I'd say they had remarkably few issues and they all rank as pretty minor.
I've been obsessed with stabicraft for the last few years or so and I also live in the Tampa Bay area, but after watching many, many videos on ownership and from Stabicraft themselves, I am of the opinion now that they are not the best choice for Florida and that opinion is reinforced after watching this video! Just the way the paint's coming off and all the things that are peeling off because of the Florida heat, and the way that the aluminum conducts the heat and melts the ice like that all would drive me absolutely nuts if I bought one of these boats knowing that fiberglass acts as a beautiful insulator in hot waters, and not to mention the long-distance service that's sketchy as hell! There's definitely some positives compared to the typical fiberglass center console a Florida waters but not nearly enough in my opinion to justify those negatives. These are cold water boats meant for places with rocky bottoms and harsh Winters. Definitely not ready for prime time in Florida. I'd much rather have a Sea Hunt or a sea pro!
The heat isn’t too much of a problem with the paint. We looked at sea hunt and based on what we saw and a ton of online posts about the issues they have due to how fast they build the boats I’d say the Stabi has way less.
@@FishForageHunt hey, I appreciate your response. I personally think it would be good to get the boat with the top of the gunnell unpainted and put a full piece of that faux decking on it, like you see in a lot of the Stabicraft vids from NZ. I still think they're really cool looking boats, and the safety aspects are undeniable. Hopefully now that you've broke the ice getting the first one in FL, so to speak, they will address some of the hot climate issues.
This is why aluminum is no bueno. Just the heat/cold is terrible. I'm from Philly and have gone through a ton of boats in my life. It gets 100 in summer and in the teens in winter. There is a reason fiberglass dominates the market. Plus the amount of repairs with paint. When the paint starts to chip, which it always will, it looks terrible.
Just came across review. THere are some good points-however, really nit-picky on the issues dealing with appearances. You are using the vessel as a work vessel. IT's not a show boat. Thus, why did you get all the wedding cake details? Give me a break. A work boat is utilitarian. So expect scratches and damage after 400 hours.
Wow...that is interesting lol. I say this because I asked a Stabicraft boat dealer a couple of years ago why I no longer had access to the 3-D boat-builder feature on Stabicraft's site. The dealer told me Stabicraft pulled it because someone in China was stealing their designs. I guess he wasn't joking.
to be honest, stabicraft is not good at all, because of the hull design, it could not cut through the wave, it just bang on the wave, i have a 2150 and i sold it
The review was meant to highlight some of the issues - at the end of the video we said we wouldn’t change a thing about our purchase. We love our boat. Stabicraft IS the way to go.
The guy is honest and I'm sure after he payed a ton of cash he don't smile when water is coming around the weterstrip. I understand this boat was tested in the toughest conditions, what happened when was raining ?
Finally someone who knows what a review actually means, not an overview of the features like they’re reading the dealers brochure. Great insight and useful information for someone who is considering this purchase. Thank you.
We purchased the boat without ever haven ridden on a Stabi, we had some amazing help on the #stabicraft forum and were able to meet a couple of folks (you know who you are) that allowed us to look at their boat right before COVID, if you or anyone you know want to check out a Stabicraft in Tampa just let us know.
Thank you both for taking the time to speak with me at Palmetto FL. Look forward to speaking with you again and watching your adventures. Incredible machine. Only wish it was catamaran style.
Great meeting you yesterday! We will have to get you out on it sometime, it might change your mind on the catamaran style ;-)
Wow! As another poster has already said, a REAL review. These are so rare and so valuable. Love your one line summary at the end. It is one I often use - If I had it to do over again, would I do the same thing? It's the best barometer of all.
On another note, I am interested to see that you have had so much trouble with your Minnkota. I have a very similar model (maybe identical). Never had a problem. And that includes perhaps half a dozen other Minnkotas before this one. I have used a couple of them often in salt water without a problem. Sorry to hear yours didn't treat you so well.
I live 75 miles from Y-marina. Tried to buy a new Stabicraft from them last year. Contacted them on line and by phone 2x's. They never took me seriously. I ended up buying an unstuck 2250 Ultracab WT from Clemens Marina last March. The Eugene dealership, managed by Mark, is especially good. The boat had to go in for some kinks that weren't worked out at purchase time. Some of those kinks were dealer installed things (Gladstone Clemens) and some were manufacturer issues. They were very thorough and communicated very well. Also, interesting to hear about the stability on plane. I'm dealing with the same issue. I have to ask passengers to limit their movement or give me a heads up so I can be ready to adjust trim tabs. I have twin Honda 150's and get 5-6 miles per gallon at 30 knots. Dean in Roseburg.
I have been interested in Stabi boats for some time now and have had contact with several dealers. Clemens Marina have been very good. I have found Boat Country in Washington to be very helpful as well.
Great review. I hope they listen to your issues to adapt to the US market / conditions.
Great review. I've been really interested in this boat.
As for Minn Kota, I've got a pair of them. One for my Jon Boat and one for my bass boat. They've both broken down multiple times. Motor Guide has been more reliable for me.
I have owned a 2400 SC for 4 years out here in SoCal and have been very happy. Some of the same gripes, but less so since our weather is a little different. Boat is a near perfect spearfishing platform for me. Concur regarding the corrosion, check all the non-Al bolts intermittently and hit them with some DEFTEK or something equivalent. Thanks for posting about what might be the only Stabi in FL.
Just passed you on I 75 north of Bradenton. Heading north.
Nice boat.
LOL small world. We just got done pulling stone crab traps and are taking it back to the house to get ready to take it to crystal river tomorrow for some gag grouper spear fishing and diving.
Thanks for the awesome review! Good to know info! I still would love to get a 2750 Stabi. Great to hear from you guys and looking forward to hearing from you again. Stat safe! Tight lines my friends!
For that step ladder in the back, you might consider in the future cutting off the bottom stair and then using a smaller diameter tube which you could slide into the other two stairs. Drill a hole through both of them and get a stainless steel lock pin to pin in when in use. That way you can have it out of the way of the fishing reels. Obviously the weld is way stronger, but just tossing out an idea.
That's a great idea. Thank you :)
Love your boat and your honesty.
Hi, thanks for a honest review.
around the 6min 27sec mark. Those bubbles are from the stainless screws reacting to the aluminum. looks like they forgot to put Duralc on the screws.
You will need to do this ASAP or it will just keep eating away then eventually, the rod holders will just fall off.
Seems like a small problem but it's a huge job fixing it because you will also need to sand a lot off where it's reacting then paint.
Thank you for that. We have been keeping a close eye on it and we will seal it up as soon as we replace them.
Excellent review, lovely boat. Safe travels.
I'm in Florida as well. I like the stabi design. The hesitation I have is a concern of lightning strikes in a metal boat.
This was a concern of ours initially as well, and we did a lot of research, talked to several Navy friends as well. Frankly I wouldn’t want to be in ANY boat that gets struck by lightening, which is why avoiding the storm is #1 for us, but FL is FL, especially the Tampa area with lightening, so that’s not always an option. Aluminum v fiberglass I’d take being in an aluminum boat as it allows the strike to get to ground quicker then a glass boat does. In a glass boat the electricity bounces around, usually wrecking havoc on electronics, potentially electrocuting the driver, before either blowing out a through hole or going through the hull. Metal vessels give the electricity a straight path to exit, giving it an automatic ground, preventing the occupants from being struck. With the cabins on the Stabi, the lightening would hit the cabin more then likely and travel the exterior of the cabin down to the water to dissipate. Turns out it’s one of the reasons most naval vessels are metal.
Another plus for an all aluminum boat, it serves as a safety faraday cage during a thunderstorm. ⛈🎣
I bought Minkota for my 1550 for anchor use only. Never had any issues knock on wood.
I bought refurbished Ulterra 2017, using every weekend trolling for hours, hit shoals- shaft didn’t even crack, original belt etc, not a single problem. You got a lemon
For sure.
Finally! A truthful and straight forward review done by a Stabi Owner! Thank you very much for taking the time to make the video. Would there be anyway to video an underway passage in crappy seas? I understand that is sometimes hard to do. Lol
Again, thanks!
You got it
YES! I would be very interested in an underway in rough seas video. With light boats (relative to their size), my limited experience says they can pound pretty badly.
They don't go in crappy seas. The owners I mean.
@@billybunter3753 😂😂😂
I have a 112 thrust 72in Minkota Ultera. I had to upgrade my batteries to 100ahr deep cycle. All voltage problems went away. I fish off shore SC typically 8-9 hour trips 21 foot fiberglass boat spot locking on variety of reefs and wrecks. No more problems. Check the amp hours (AHR) of your current batteries
Phenomenal video thanks for the info. Have been looking at the 2250 WT.
The boat catch is amazing, I have one on my tiny 1550 fisher
Your here too bro?
Man I am excited to walk through one in person. I live in Florida and travel all the time. I would love to try and link up and see yours since it's close.
Up in Tampa. Hit me up and we can do it.
I've been running a Minn Kotta for over 2 yearson a 22 foot fiberglass boat in Australia. One warrantee claim early on motor didn't stow and had to do a manual stow since then all good.. Once you do a manual stow it has to go back to the dealer for repair. Only one repair center in Australia so needed to be removed from the boat and sent to them all a pretty smooth process and good service. I'm currently looking at the Stabi 2250 looked at that Minn Kota mounting, way to much chance of damaging the motor docking on the Port side. I was looking at deleting the port bow rail and mounting it on the bow proper to the port side of the anchor. That lays the motor down the port walkway but rather interrupt the walkway than hook the motor on a pile.
Yea its something we have to be extra cautious about. Only come close a couple of times thanks to the dual engines
Lol… I have a Minn kota on my 28’ Grady white and agree, awesome on the rare occasions it works and often isn’t working and causing problems.
Thank you! great boat!
I find a 36V 72" 112lb minn kota is not always able to hold a 6.35M 1300kg (hull weight) fiberglass boat with a single Yammie 200. I recently checked out a Stabi 2750 at a local dealer, it's huge. I am surprised minn kota support their motors to be fitted to a boat this size. If you have some lithiums with BSM with bluetooth you can monitor the current draw. Alternatively you can put a shunt and monitor the current.
On a boat your size with twin engines it maybe a better bet to use the helmaster with the position hold features. This does put more hours on the engines but your using them a load anyway. It will also remove your docking issue.
But clearly running engines is a problem when diving. However it maybe you can use a remote kill switch such as a Fell marine. If one of you wears a remote kill switch and enters the water first, engines on with wrist band active. The engines should stop. If the 2nd person restarts the engines and engages position hold not wearing a kill switch and then dives over the side. When you surface the person wearing the kill switch can remote stop the engines to facilitate climbing back up the rear ladder. Worth chatting to Yamaha and Fell since I am sure it is a problem many would like solved.
I like the way Stabi utilizes space. Even the small boats seem to fish and perform like bigger boats. I have entertained the idea of something in the 18 foot range. I live in NC so my biggest question is how did you guys rationalize buying a boat so far away from the selling dealer? How would you get warranty work done if welds cracked or some other problem arises?
Megan here. I have to tell you, this was the number ONE concern I had when looking at the boat. But honestly, we had a few minor issues in the first year (dealer warranty) and the Y took care of it. Generally it involved us taking it to a local shop, they inspected it, performed the repair and we submitted the receipt to the Y and they mailed us a check. The engines are under Yamahas warranty and we have a million Yamaha shops here in FL so no issue there. Quality of the Stabis we had ZERO issues with the welds.
Weld cracks??? On Stabi? Dude…
Great review!!Would you mind sharing the Boat catch installer info? TIA!!
Great video! Where did you buy your stabicraft? Is there a local dealer for southeast? Thanks
I'm really curious about how an amphibious system, such as Sealegs would work on this size boat. I know they work really well with smaller models, unfortunately, I don't see too many examples of these systems on bigger models. Thanks.
Sealegs do look awesome. We trailer all over so the extra weight of that system didn’t make sense for us both on the road and then when we have to run out 60 miles to get into deep water.
Sealegs have designed a larger system - here is an example built by Senator, another NZ Boat builder local to me ruclips.net/video/-tEkffNuJDA/видео.html
Fanatic video mate , any chance you could share the details on the suction scuba tank holders and knife/tackle holder ? Thanks 🙏
The tool holder is by a company called SeaSucker, and it really does come in handy, keeps everything accessible and dryer then in the drawer. Never had an issue with it becoming unstuck. The scuba tank/speargun holder we purchased from a local dive shop, I’m not 100% sure of the brand, I think it was Max Holding, the arms flip up to allow you to remove the tanks. However SeaSucker makes tank holders too. In rough waters we will bungee or tie them to the rail as an added safety precaution, but also never had an issue with tanks falling out. Only thing I will say is that the spear gun holders are a little tight on our model, which is both good and bad.
I am slightly below you in Bradenton/Sarasota and have been looking at Stabicraft. I like the review. Don't like how the wife keeps interrupting you. I have tried doing RUclips vids with my wife and she does the same thing....
Thanks of your video, wondering where do you buy your tank & speargun holder?
What size are your trim tabs? They look like 12" wide x 9" deep lenco tabs. I am looking to get a 24ft stabicraft and lencos website is recommending 18" wide x 9" long tabs. Do you find the tabs you have are aquequate for your boat ?
99% sure they use automotive paint. If you repaint with the same, there are some clear coatings used for front bumpers and hoods of cars that are rubberized that are super tough.
Thanks for the great review! I am on the other side of the gulf in Texas. Looking at the 1850 fisher and supercab. Trying to make sure it vents well in the heat. Your video is the first I have seen that addresses it, thank you! Any thoughts between the two models ? Also, where did you get the boat catch in Texas ?
Boat catch we ordered online. Cabin is great to have. We weee in five footers today with water coming up every which way. Stayed dry the whole time.
While I am sure you are talking about the main unit that attaches to the trailer, please note that the bow piece on the boat itself is a factory option if you order a boat from Stabicraft.
what an awesome machine!
Have you got the minn kota fixed. How about some more boat videos?
Well, it broke again, twice, after the video was made. They replaced the entire lower unit and shaft the last time. The lower was filled with water from a bad seal, which in talking with some other owners, appeared to be a known manufacturer defect they never said anything about. So, crossing our fingers. It held up for an entire week in the keys, and for a long offshore trip. So maybe? Lol. And what do you want to see about the boat and we will see what we can do.
Thanks for the review. I was looking at them. What does one of those cost just like you have it if you dont mind telling. BTW- I have had a min kota for 4 years on my boat with no issues.
Are you still running your Minn Kota? I just wonder if you have considered replacing it with a Garmin Force Kraken. They have a model designed for deep-vee/high-freeboard boats.
Yup. Working good now.
Interesting that most of the issues you were having come down to the fact that you are using a boat in the tropics that is designed and built at the very bottom of New Zealand - last stop before Antarctica! I'm sure now the guys from Stabicraft are exporting these to the likes of Florida they will probably rectify some of the issues you are having. A lot of the Ali boat builders here in NZ are now vinyl wrapping their boats instead of painting.
This boat is incredible. Questions for you. Why did you go for this over a more available (on the east coase) parker pilot house or equivalent? Was it the aluminum or other features? Thanks.
Parkers are nice but we wanted an aluminum hill first and foremost. On a Parker I had to duck down to see through the main windshield and I’m only 6’ tall. I wanted a cabin I could easily see through from the back deck. Lastly we felt that we were getting more boat for the same amount of money.
Sorry if I missed it in an earlier post, but how did you obtain a Stabicraft in Florida? I'd love to get a hold of a 1450/1550 Explorer, but Oregon seems to be the closest dealer.
We bought in Oregon and then I paid to have it towed. We flew out to see the boat and then I flew out once more to test drive it when it was ready.
@@FishForageHunt That's what I thought about the purchasing. How did you get the support and service after then? Just hope they will have an east coast dealer in the future. Thx
I was thinking of buying the 2750 but have never rode in one so I can't compare it to say a Worldcat catamaran. Have you ever been on a Worldcat and can compare the two? The Worldcat is unbelievably stable in really rough seas. My brother has a Worldcat 266 and it eats 6 ft seas like nobody's business. In fact, the faster you run, the smoother the ride because it forces the air in the tunnel and gives a great cushion. No banging your guts out like most mono-hulls. I'm torn because I really like the Stabi but know the Worldcat performance is the best. Any thoughts?
I have not ridden on a Woorldcat, so can’t be the best judge. This boat in 6 footers is pretty dang stable, I would recommend the foam filling though.
Great feedback. I got out in a 2500 last week and the seats seemed to rock back and forth more so than other boats. Is that something you have experienced?
I was saprised buy the cab i would think of corse the cab makes it so boating is more like taking ride in your car be cool on coastel water way
How is the aluminum deck in the Florida sun, does it get hot or can you walk on it with bare feet?
It gets hot but no hotter than fiberglass. A quick spray with sea water from the washdown does the trick.
A believe all Stabicraft can be ordered with SeaDek (or a similar product) as an option.
Why do you need a kill bag or a kill tank? Should have bought an Icey Tek while you were in NZ.
We purchased through a US dealer. Also, kill bag fits in the floor, leaving more deck space for fishing!
Would you change your mind about the motors. Get 225 or 250 Or get smaller? How is rocking vs other boats would you get a sea keeper?
Actually wouldn’t change a thing. The fuel efficiency of the dual 200s is great at 2.3-2.6 mpg at cruising speed WOT about 1.2, it takes us about 60 miles to get to 120ft here in the gulf (crazy I know) so fuel efficiency, (especially with current gas prices) is crucial. We also get washing machine waves almost all the time (like 1-2second intervals with winds blowing in the opposite direction) so there are very few times we can even go WOT. With our distance I don’t think I would go lower, and we don’t really see the need to go higher.
Just be careful to fold the ladder
That extra length you added can cause serious damage while towing ,especially while crossing hump or a steep driveway
We keep it bungee corded to the handrail in the back whenever it’s not in use just to avoid that situation, don’t want to hit it, and don’t want it flipping down on the highway either!
Nice review! Been looking to getting a 2750 myself and this was a ton of help. Just out of curiosity, do you know if the 2750 has a variable deadrise (deadrise at bow entry, forward, and stern)?
I’m not sure on the variable dead rise of the 2750. The Stabicraft fan page on Facebook is a great place to ask and they are all really helpful and inviting.
Get a wrap instead of paint or just get it without either. I live in Michigan & had the only Stabi a 1650 fisher. But recently sold it because of my physical problems now. But the best part of a Stabi is the safety on the water.
thank you for the informations.
How does it go out through Haulovet on a bad day?
Lol 🤷♂️ haven’t done it yet.
HI from NZ. SORRY to hear you have had so many issues with your Stabicraft. Have you talked to them about your concerns? I hope you do if you have not.as they will take your concerns on board. I don't appreciate the sarcasm coming from Meagan, but I can understand the feeling of frustration and disappointment.. I'm not sure I want to watch the rest of the video if that is the continuing tone I am going to hear. These boats are built down in Invercargill which is in a very cold climate. It looks like there are design changes needed for a much warmer climate like uours. This boat has been tested in Foveaux Strait and Cook Strait which incidentally are both considered some of the most dangerous waters in the world. Maybe that is where they have invested a lot of their time in making a boat that can still float when fully flooded. I have experienced both straits in rough seas and would be happy to ride out the storm in a Stabicraft boat. In 2012 we lost 5 people in Foveaux Strait in one go. They would have had a good chance of survivial in a Stabicraft boat. I wouldn't be worried about the paint and trim when my boat was in a storm. l want to know if it can ride the storm and stay afloat!. Yet, I agree the strip should be attached better and there should be patch up paint offered with the boat. Maybe you bought the wrong boat for your needs and expectations. What caused you to buy this boat in the first place? If it is full filling that then get the niggles fixed. Otherwise....SELL IT! Don't let it keep eating away at you and your marriage!
Not sure if you watched until the end. We said we ultimately love our boat and would not have changed a thing about the process or buying the boat.
We knew the paint was an issue before we bought. We are pet of a Facebook group where lots of people had the same issues.
This review is designed to give an honest assessment of what we found in using our boat Florida. There are lots of people interested in Stabicraft here after they see the boat so it’s important they know about the little things.
I’ve put 500 hours on it as of this weekend and continue to love its versatility.
Have a great day and thanks for the comment.
You are a very strange person! However much you watched, what you saw is a REAL review. No problems for me with anything Meghan said, content or tone of voice. You seem very judgmental and IMHO did not do a very careful job to match your comments to the video. Starting with your first line "SORRY to hear you have had so many issues with your Stabicraft". I'd say they had remarkably few issues and they all rank as pretty minor.
@@tomjpt Plus, an owner can have issues with any boat brand. The marine environment can be harsh.
Super perfect boat😭
Is the MinnKota an Ulterra?
Riptide Terrova 87" shaft.
I've been obsessed with stabicraft for the last few years or so and I also live in the Tampa Bay area, but after watching many, many videos on ownership and from Stabicraft themselves, I am of the opinion now that they are not the best choice for Florida and that opinion is reinforced after watching this video!
Just the way the paint's coming off and all the things that are peeling off because of the Florida heat, and the way that the aluminum conducts the heat and melts the ice like that all would drive me absolutely nuts if I bought one of these boats knowing that fiberglass acts as a beautiful insulator in hot waters, and not to mention the long-distance service that's sketchy as hell!
There's definitely some positives compared to the typical fiberglass center console a Florida waters but not nearly enough in my opinion to justify those negatives.
These are cold water boats meant for places with rocky bottoms and harsh Winters. Definitely not ready for prime time in Florida.
I'd much rather have a Sea Hunt or a sea pro!
The heat isn’t too much of a problem with the paint. We looked at sea hunt and based on what we saw and a ton of online posts about the issues they have due to how fast they build the boats I’d say the Stabi has way less.
@@FishForageHunt hey, I appreciate your response.
I personally think it would be good to get the boat with the top of the gunnell unpainted and put a full piece of that faux decking on it, like you see in a lot of the Stabicraft vids from NZ.
I still think they're really cool looking boats, and the safety aspects are undeniable.
Hopefully now that you've broke the ice getting the first one in FL, so to speak, they will address some of the hot climate issues.
Video release almost a year
This is why aluminum is no bueno. Just the heat/cold is terrible. I'm from Philly and have gone through a ton of boats in my life. It gets 100 in summer and in the teens in winter. There is a reason fiberglass dominates the market. Plus the amount of repairs with paint. When the paint starts to chip, which it always will, it looks terrible.
Buy some kflex neoprene mats
Only comment I have is why paint an alloy boat
I follow this company, I had no clue 1 made it here..
They are actually opening a production facility in the US!
There are quite a few Stabis in the PNW. There are dealers in OR and WA as well as BC and Alaska.
Get a Rodan trolling motor
Just came across review. THere are some good points-however, really nit-picky on the issues dealing with appearances. You are using the vessel as a work vessel. IT's not a show boat. Thus, why did you get all the wedding cake details? Give me a break. A work boat is utilitarian. So expect scratches and damage after 400 hours.
Camera person talks too much!!!!!!
This boat appears to be a Gospel Boat from China.
Wow...that is interesting lol. I say this because I asked a Stabicraft boat dealer a couple of years ago why I no longer had access to the 3-D boat-builder feature on Stabicraft's site. The dealer told me Stabicraft pulled it because someone in China was stealing their designs. I guess he wasn't joking.
to be honest, stabicraft is not good at all, because of the hull design, it could not cut through the wave, it just bang on the wave, i have a 2150 and i sold it
You many complains?dont buy stabicraft
The review was meant to highlight some of the issues - at the end of the video we said we wouldn’t change a thing about our purchase. We love our boat. Stabicraft IS the way to go.
The guy is honest and I'm sure after he payed a ton of cash he don't smile when water is coming around the weterstrip. I understand this boat was tested in the toughest conditions, what happened when was raining ?
Great if you have almost a million dollars to spend on a bpat!!!!!!!
Way less than that.