Boats: Aluminum vs. Fiberglass

When most people think of buying a boat the first thing that comes to mind is usually not the material the boat is constructed of. However it can be one of the most important decisions for a number of reasons.

Fiberglass is the most common type of material because it can be molded into just about any shape and it lends itself nicely to creating sleek clean lines on hulls. It is relatively easy to clean and maintain if you don’t plan to keep your boat in the water for more than about 6 mos. at a time. The interior cabins of fiberglass hulled boats are usually outfitted with nice amenities and woodwork to give them a more “homey” feel and look. A fiberglass boat is a good choice for the average recreational boater.

One of the disadvantages of fiberglass is that if you hit something in the water or run aground, the hull will crack or splinter if the impact is severe enough. (Some of the more expensive fiberglass boats have a foam core sandwiched in between layers of fiberglass to allow the boat to float in the event of a catastrophic hull breach). Repairing this type of damage on a boat while possible, can be unsightly and expensive. Most of us don’t “plan” to hit anything or run aground, but in the backs of our minds we always wonder if our family will be safe if it does happen. Another disadvantage to fiberglass is the fact that it is heavier than other materials and subsequently the engines will work harder to push it through the water. Fuel economy and performance will be affected negatively. 

Aluminum is a material that is becoming increasingly popular for boats. Although riveted aluminum boats have been around for over half a century, the more modern boats are now constructed with welding technology that has evolved to the point that the boats are strong and attractive.

A welded aluminum boat typically will come with a lifetime hull warranty, something unheard of in a fiberglass boat. Aluminum has 10 times the shear strength of fiberglass. If aluminum gets dented it usually doesn’t require any work at all. Should a hole be punched in it, the “wound” is easily and cheaply repaired.

Aluminum hulled recreational fishing or cruising boats will get significantly better fuel economy as well. With the aluminum being lighter, the engines do not have to work as hard to push the boat through the water. Aluminum will ride higher in the water and plane much quicker as a result of the lighter weight. Noise is not an issue either as the construction of the heavier welded boats does not produce the “slapping” that is common in the older riveted boats. All in all aluminum is a great choice for a boat in all water conditions. It requires little maintenance other than to wash off as you would your car.

There is no one right material for boaters, but now with the emergence of the newer welding technology, aluminum is definitely worth a second look.