Choosing a custom boat builder in Ontario can be a longer research project then expected Perhaps you are looking for a new commercial fishing vessel or are in need of a whole new fleet of Government ships? Or maybe you want fire, police patrol, or research boat.
Regardless of your motivation to own a boat, it’s invaluable to choose the best custom boat builder in Ontario.
Owning a boat is a smart investment for your business or even the organization you head. But you already know there are many boat sizes and types to pick from, right? Well, whether you go fishing in the deep seas or want a tour vessel to make trips all around the world, there is no one for all types of boats.
To have the perfect boat to suit your needs, preference, and style, you want it to be custom-built. However, the custom boat builder you opt for can either make or break the project. To help you choose the best custom boat builder in Ontario, here’s a complete guide for you.
Ask for Recommendations
When it comes to choosing a custom boat builder, you’ll have lots of options. Looking for one might feel like wandering in a thick forest, and if it’s your first time, it can be intimidating. This is why it’s important to get a head start on where you’ll begin your search.
To find a reputable custom boat builder, your friends or business partners owning similar boats can be a great resource. They will offer you with names of renowned boat builders who manufactured their vessels. Also, having undergone the boat building process, your inner circle can offer crucial insights about owning a boat and choosing the right custom boat builder.
However, the list of names of different companies are not your final options! Make sure to carry out a thorough background check on them to confirm they meet your own needs and have a solid reputation of success.
Conduct an Online Research
If you don’t have anyone in your circle who owns a boat, you’ll need to start your search from scratch. The aim is to find potential custom boat builders by narrowing down your options. Start with a simple search on the internet ‘custom boat builders near me‘, and you’re sure to get some results listed of companies near your location.
Go through the results and pick three or four boat manufactures who seem to align with your specific boating needs. However, you’ll still need to carry thorough research to learn more about them and determine if they are your perfect match.
Check What Kinds of Boats They Work on
Some contractors work on boats of all sizes and shapes, while others specialize in a particular type. However, you want a contractor who builds custom boats. While checking through their website, you’ll see if they have an option for custom boat building with a proper project gallery.
Avoid working with a general boat builder who promises to deliver your intended results with extremely fast turn-around times. It’s better that you don’t take your chances with them to avoid wasting time and money in the process. For instance, if you want custom fishing boats, confirm this is the area of specialization for the contractor.
Since you already have a picture of what your vessel should look like, you want a contractor to actualize the dream during the design process. Unlike “mass production vessel manufacturing”, you can customize a list of features, facilities, and amenities that your custom boat design should have. Make sure the potential contractor has the ability, skills, and expertise to deliver the results you want and desire.
Ask About Their Training
When searching for a boat builder, keep in mind that all are created differently. And unfortunately, some have more experience and training than others. However, you can’t risk hiring an inexperienced or partly trained contractor to work on your vessel. To have a boat to meet all your unique needs, you must be very careful about who you choose to do the work. The builder should be a certified marine mechanic after undergoing thorough training to achieve the title. Always review the website to ensure you they have the right service options for your particular project.
Make sure to ask about their credentials and certifications in custom boat engineering prior to picking them. Ask if they are certified or members of any national organization or regulator.
Check on Reputation
Prior to picking a custom boat builder in Ontario, check on their reputation. Don’t pick them blindly without getting crucial insights from their past customer. Make sure to know what their past customers are saying about their experience working with the contractor.
To evaluate their reputation, go through their website and check on testimonials. Here you’ll see testimonials of clients they have helped before. Read them and evaluate whether the customer was satisfied with the received services.
However, testimonials are likely to be flattery, and may not reflect the actual experience working with the contractor. To get unbiased and honest feedback, consult the third-party review websites. These include Yelp, Trust Pilot, Google My Business, and Consumer Reports.
Here, you’ll come across both positive and negative reviews based on the actual experience of the clients. Be keen on what the negative reviews are about; dissatisfaction, cost, professionalism, time, and more. If a company has multiple negative reviews, avoid them and move to the next.
Also, check with Better Business Bureau to determine if any complaint has been filed against the potential builder. You can also see if they receive regular PR and press related news on contracts and projects as a leader in the boating industry.
Ask for References
It’s also paramount to see the past projects done by the contractor and get firsthand information from their past clients. Ask for contact details of their past customers so you can plan a visit, see and talk to them. Also, book an appointment to see the current projects in their shipyard.
After reaching out to the clients, ask them about all your questions and concerns about working with the contractor. Also, ask for a tour in their boat to see every detail about the vessel. After all, this, ask yourself whether you want the same results for your project.
Hire a Custom Boat Builder in Ontario Today
Owning a boat is one of the smartest investments you can make. By opting for a custom-built boat, you can own your dream vessel to suit your unique needs and preferences. However, working with an experienced contractor is paramount for the best results.
Are you looking for a custom boat builder in Ontario? At Hike Metal, we got you covered. We are a custom boat manufacturer for all industries committed to delivering top-quality results to our clients. Contact us today to request a quote.
