Guys, guys, guys... you're taking this the wrong way.
I realize you are pissed. I'd probably be upset if I were in your shoes too, but I wouldn't take it the way that you are.
For years, boat prices have been inflated to the point of being rediculous. Look at what you get in a boat, compared to a car or truck. I know I'm comparing apples to oranges here, but seriously - look at it.
For quite some time, you could buy a 21 foot boat with a 225 or 250 for the same price or higher than a full size SUV. The automobile has to not only pass the smog tests that boat engines are now also subjected to, but also crash tests, etc... The SUV comes with a comfortable interior, adjustable seats, AC, Heat, power windows, etc, etc, etc... The boat comes with... well - a weatherproof interior. Period. Stop there. No adjustable seats, no ac, no heat, no rolling up windows, etc...
Boat companies haven't changed the design of boats that much. They tweek hulls here and there, and some design some really nice riding hulls. But look at the interiors. Nick-nacks. Do-hickies. Cool widgets. Nothing ground breaking here guys.
For my money, if you're going to be charging what the big-guys are getting for "premium" bass boats lately, there should be a LOT more thought going into the boats design. Where are the built in trolling motors? I've had this idea for years - basically, a 3 blade/3 motor "bow thruster". You stop the boat, walk to the front and start fishing. Nothing cluttering up the bow. No trolling motor shaft and motor head to get caught on a stump or log. Has anyone developed it? Nope. But Allison threw some nifty headlights into the bow. Come on! Really? Headlights? Give me something I can USE! How about the livewell systems? You mean to tell me that in all these years, the best they can do is put baffles in them and recirc pumps? Same crap, different structure. Give me something groundbreaking! Oxygen infusing systems that I don't have to add as an aftermarket design. Better distribution of weight in the boat by placing them somewhere a bit further forward so I don't have a pig getting on plane with a full livewell. Do SOMETHING. But no, we get baffles and recirc pumps. How about the dashes? We still get the same thing we always did. Maybe they spuced it up a little bit, but come on - 4 different warning beeps? How about something that tells me what is actually going on? OK. Smartcraft gauges. Great. Now how about including those in the price of these high dollar rigs? What's that? It's an OPTION? Extra costs you say? Geez! Give me a break.
OK.... I could do this all day, but my short break time is almost over so I have to get back to work.
Basically, what we have here guys is the same thing as the housing market in certain parts of the country. Both the boats and houses got inflated to the point that hardly anyone could afford them. Now the bottom is starting to drop out of the market, and if they want to sell boats, the price has got to come down. I know it sucks for those with the high morgages (or in your case, high boat loans), but all truthfullness, the price is where is should have been a long time ago.
I, for one, applaud the lower prices. I only hope that their quality does not lapse to make up for the price difference. That, in my eyes, would be what kills the brand reputation and your future resale price.
Hope I don't tick anyone off too bad. It's not my intention. I just want you to see it from a different perspective.
All the best,
Glenn
