Ask Capt. Steve - How Will Galeon, Absolute and Schaefer Rate in 5 Years?
You have asked the $64,000 question. It’s complicated. When it comes to quality, innovation, and finish work, we try to answer those questions in our videos and reports. We generally point out innovation, but it typically doesn’t last very long as once a good idea comes along, other boat builders adopt it within months.
Quality can be seen in the equipment and materials selected, which we often point out. What is even more important, is the quality of installation, something that we generally only see in the engine room. That’s why we usually have slow pans of the wiring and plumbing there, so you can see for yourself if it’s just thrown in or neat and orderly. Unfortunately, most of the wiring and plumbing is hidden, so the reputation of the builder is terribly important.
We have visited the factories of most of the brands that we report on. In most cases we make videos while we’re there, but most importantly, we come away with a strong idea of the TLC that foremen and shop floor personnel put into their work. Some of our reports are laced with faint praise, so be alert.
Excellent joinery work requires highly skilled carpenters and lots of man-hours no matter where it is done. That means the price of these boats will be higher, so price -- as a rule of thumb -- is a good guide to quality, both of what you can see, and can’t see. Thankfully, numerous brands have decided to build lower price-point boats so that more people can afford them.
In those cases, consumers are getting lower quality finish work, for a lower price and for many people that’s a good trade off. We do not generally gig builders that have consciously used less costly materials or have production-line cabinetry work because that is their chosen price niche, much like it is with automobiles. One doesn’t expect a Honda Civic to have the plush treatment and the bells and whistles of an EQE-Class Mercedes. We do, however, generally point out details that are unusual or noteworthy.
After all, the idea is to get out on the water and enjoy it – so, if boats are so expensive that boating can’t be afforded, people might as well take up golf.
Used Boat Prices Tell the Tale
The rub comes with the quality of the installation of lower price-point boats. And this is where owners of lower-priced boats may suffer in the aftermarket. That disappointment will be reflected in the used-boat price of the vessel when it goes on the market. Boats that hold up well sell for much higher prices than those with the same specs that have a lack-luster reputation.
As to whether or not the customers of these boats will be happy and satisfied five years later, let me look into my crystal ball…
--CAPT. STEVE