View Full Version : Crestliner or Alumacraft
Boilermaker
12-03-1999, 08:07 PM
Here in central Indiana, we don't have a large number of boat dealers. The local dealer that I had decided to do business with just dropped Alumacraft for Crestliner. I was going to buy a new Alumacraft this winter, will I be making a mistake to get the Crestliner. Looking to get a 16 to 17 footer with about 80 horse 4 stroke console.
On June 8 1999 took delivery of an Alumacraft Lunker V 16. My decision was based on the HP rating of the boat 10 more HP than a comparable boat in the Lund or Crestliner lines. Quality is very close among those three. IMHP Crestliner has a slight edge then Lund then Alumacraft.Crestliner was a lot heavier and a few hundred dollars more.I'm not sorry I went with Alumacraft if speed wasn't a factor Crestliner would have been my choice. The dealer looms large in the decision making process. My dealer has been exceptional so far.
wackeejackee
12-04-1999, 08:24 PM
I got off of glass boats for a Crestliner and just love it. I'll never go back. Alumacraft is a fine boat, but I'll take a C-liner!
Chill
12-05-1999, 12:02 AM
Both Alumacraft and Crestliner are both reputable brands. Some may be partial to one or the other, but I assure you that you will be very happy with a Crestliner.
I went the same route. 18' glass boat to 16' 6" tin boat not sorry
Jarno
12-05-1999, 05:03 PM
I have had three Alumacraft boats and have fished with friends in Crestliners. Both are well built and have reputable manufacturs behind them. You will be happy with either make.
KnottyBuoy
12-06-1999, 06:17 AM
I have had both and currently have the 17 foot Crestliner ProAm......I really like it.......I think you would be happy with the Crestliner although I have no knock against Alumacraft!
Greg P
12-06-1999, 08:24 AM
I have truly enjoyed my Alumacraft Trophy 170 (17') for 9 years. It has a great layout for fishing, the dual console is great in the wind, the canopy does wonders for keeping dry in the rain. The front storage compartment is 100% dry. It's very sturdy, and makes a great ski boat.
I have also spent plenty of time in a Crestliner Phantom II. In my opinion it cuts big waves better than my Trophy, and handles tight turns better. But it is heavier than my boat, which creates a larger wake for skiing. In addition I don't think it has as nice of a layout for fishing. (Remember I am talking about 1990 models.)
They are both great boats. My advice would be to consider the size of lakes you fish, if you are in a lot of big waves, and you can afford the extra $$$, choose the Crestliner. Otherwise, you will be perfectly happy with the Alumacraft.
There are certainly other quality aluminum boats out there, but buying a boat from a dealership close to home is a good idea, if you need service.
Good luck,
Greg P