There has been one boat builder who has looked for new methods and materials. I hate to give him credit but Irwin Jacobs with Carver, Marquis, Larson, Triumph. Former Genmar. Not saying this is they type huge step Art is talking about. But on Larson, he uses what they've labeled VEC, as a stronger, lighter, higher quality construction. When things were slow they also used it in the Marquis factory to build windmills. You can see more at Vectechnology.com. Is it better, a step forward? Well, Larson would argue yet and Glastron would argue no. It is definitely a less expensive way to build. Ultimately he's betting that when Larson, Triumph, Marquis, and Carver are either gone or he no longer owns them, VEC will be his huge moneymaker and I'd be pretty sure he owns it separately and just licenses to Larson.
Another one of his experiments was Triumph. They have a molded polymer hull named Roplene. "Indestructible" hulls. Now they actually do make excellent utility boats as you can beat and bang them in ways that would destroy fiberglass. They do have some issues however. With the prevalence of dry storage, people found out that it was not best to leave them sitting on racks for long times (or on some trailers) as the rack would impact the bottom and alter the boat.
How many of you remember years ago small PVC boats? They may still be around. But for an entry little fishing boat they were all made in one piece, just molded PVC. Were supposed to be a breakthrough for ponds and small lakes.
Another one of his experiments was Triumph. They have a molded polymer hull named Roplene. "Indestructible" hulls. Now they actually do make excellent utility boats as you can beat and bang them in ways that would destroy fiberglass. They do have some issues however. With the prevalence of dry storage, people found out that it was not best to leave them sitting on racks for long times (or on some trailers) as the rack would impact the bottom and alter the boat.
How many of you remember years ago small PVC boats? They may still be around. But for an entry little fishing boat they were all made in one piece, just molded PVC. Were supposed to be a breakthrough for ponds and small lakes.