Design and technology in fishing boat-building continue to evolve. As aluminum boat builders, we always had to play catch up to our fiberglass counterparts.
Smoother edges, superior paints, and protective coatings. Comfortable seating options and extra perks. These used to be exclusive to fiberglass boats.
Now, no more.
The industry of aluminum boat-building is seeing massive improvements in techniques and materials. So too, in design innovation and research into and the application of emerging tech. And we are using all these to build aluminum boats that surpass fiberglass in terms of durability and reliability, and in style and luxury.
Using fiberglass as a body or component material was adapted from the automotive industry into boat building. Specifically in 1942, when Ray Greene build the first fiberglass and polyester boat.
It wasn’t long before manufacturers started using proprietary resins and fiberglass weaves. Design and automation technology followed next. Innovations to make boats weigh less without compromising durability were introduced. Other advancements include the use of composite materials and multi-layer fiberglass blocks. These improvements virtually wiped out wood as a boat-building material. Many new boats even have fiberglass transoms. The only concession is wood veneer, now seen as a luxury accessory.
Aluminum was not even considered reliable material for creating boats back then. Not at all.
Why? Not because it was considered a lesser material to use. Rather, it was because no one knew how to work with aluminum. In those early years, boats made from aluminum lacked symmetry and suffered from bad design values and aesthetics. Obviously, there is potential for aluminum but there was no one who dared to use it and run with it.
That’s where we came in. Xpress has revolutionized the way how aluminum boats are designed and made. We started by using the finest-quality aluminum, sound-absorbing foam, well-grounded engineering, and boat-building techniques, and improved fit and finish.
Our design and engineering innovations have taken boat building—and riding—to a new level. Since the 1980s, we’ve designed aluminum boat models with increased performance and stability. These design innovations allowed Xpress to offer bigger and more comfortable boats. Our wider and more stable designs let us offer larger decks for more fishable space. So, really, it’s no surprise fishermen, competitive sportspeople, and families choose Xpress!
Innovative, high-precision jigs and dies have helped shape modern aluminum boats. This means that modern aluminum boats are superior both in design and handling power. It also means that aluminum boats can now be built with up to 250 horsepower outboards on their transom. Going into shallow water? No problem! You can get an aluminum boat built with jack plates and shallow water anchors at the stern.
Today’s aluminum boats are not only lightweight and durable. They are also robust enough to resist the rigors of large lakes and rivers. Modern aluminum boats feature intricate stringer and support systems. This level of design and construction offers enhanced stability and a comfortable ride. They are capable of enduring severe impacts. Definitely miles ahead of the classic aluminum boats built over the years—and certainly, over fiberglass.
It is such a simple concept, but difficult to put into practice. Why drill holes on boat hulls and rivet them together? Holes leak, wood rots, and your investment deteriorate over time. Xpress Boats was the first to build by welding and after 56 years and tens of thousands of boats built, you will find that the original is still the best. We build a sound foundation that you will appreciate and enjoy for years to come.
Xpress Boats, creator of the original all-welded aluminum boat, understands that your time is valuable and we appreciate your interest and investment in our innovative product. With care and maintenance, you will experience decades of xcitement with your Xpress craft.
No two boats are built the same. They may both have an attractive exterior covered with shiny metallic paint, but the hull design, structural support, and substrate can vary drastically. Each component of our all-welded aluminum boats comes together to deliver The Xpress Difference.
Here are a few ways to learn more about our boats.
Digital and hard copy versions available. Get yours today.
You can find an Xpress boat throughout the United States.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have about any of our models or products.
