Discover Bryant Boats’ quality, performance, and unique features. Learn about their build, models, pricing, and owner experiences in this in-depth guide.
Bryant Boats, a name synonymous with quality craftsmanship and family-oriented boating, has carved a niche in the recreational boating market. Known for their solid construction, thoughtful design, and customer-centric approach, Bryant Boats have garnered a loyal following among boating enthusiasts. This article delves into the history, build quality, performance, features, pricing, and ownership experience of Bryant Boats, providing a detailed overview for prospective buyers and boating aficionados.
The Legacy of Bryant Boats
Bryant Boats began in 1990 as a small, family-owned company in Sweetwater, Tennessee. The Bryant family aimed to produce high-quality boats in limited quantities, prioritizing craftsmanship over mass production. This approach allowed them to focus on detail and customer satisfaction, setting them apart in a competitive market. In 2012, John Dorton, a veteran of the boating industry and former head of MasterCraft, purchased the company, retaining the Bryant family in key roles to maintain its legacy. In 2017, Correct Craft, a prominent name in the boating industry, acquired Bryant Boats, further solidifying its position in the market.
Despite their reputation, there has been confusion about the brand’s status. Some sources suggest that Bryant Boats ceased production, with their website becoming inactive and social media updates halting around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, others indicate that the brand continues under Correct Craft, possibly rebranded or integrated into other operations, such as Merritt Precision in Sweetwater, Tennessee. Regardless of their current production status, Bryant Boats remain a compelling choice in the used boat market due to their quality and availability of parts.
Build Quality: A Commitment to Excellence
Bryant Boats are renowned for their robust construction, often compared to high-end brands like Cobalt. One of their standout features is their wood-free construction, which eliminates the risk of rot—a common issue in boats with wooden components. This approach enhances longevity, making Bryant Boats a durable investment for long-term use.
Key Construction Features
- Long Hull Cure Time: Unlike many manufacturers who remove hulls and decks from molds within hours, Bryant allows a three-day curing process. This extended period ensures the fiberglass maintains its intended shape, reducing the risk of warping or rippling. The result is a smoother, more precise hull, evident when inspecting for ripples in reflected light.
- Hand-Cut Openings: All mounts and drive openings are cut by hand, avoiding the inconsistencies that can arise from robotic processes. This meticulous approach enhances the precision and quality of the boat’s assembly.
- Wood-Free Design: By eschewing wood in transoms, stringers, and bulkheads, Bryant minimizes maintenance concerns and extends the boat’s lifespan. This contrasts with some manufacturers who use wood for ease of installation, which can lead to issues over time.
Warranty and Reliability
Bryant’s commitment to quality is backed by a robust warranty structure:
- Lifetime Structural Warranty: Covers the hull and deck, ensuring long-term durability.
- Five-Year Gelcoat Blister Warranty: Protects against cosmetic and structural issues in the gelcoat.
- Two-Year Stem-to-Stern Component Warranty: Covers non-engine components, with engines covered separately by their manufacturers (typically MerCruiser or Volvo Penta).
This warranty reflects Bryant’s confidence in their craftsmanship and provides peace of mind for owners.
Performance: Smooth and Stable
Bryant Boats are designed for a balance of performance and comfort, making them ideal for family outings, watersports, and leisurely cruises. Owners consistently praise their handling, particularly in challenging conditions like choppy waters.
Performance Highlights
- Fuel Tank Placement: Unlike many boats with fuel tanks in the rear, Bryant positions theirs in the bow. This forward weight distribution aids in faster planing and improved stability, especially when trimmed up. Owners, such as Alton Bay Bob, have noted that this design allows Bryant Boats to handle rough waters on lakes like Winnipesaukee with ease.
- Engine Options: Bryant offers a range of engine and drive options, typically MerCruiser or Volvo Penta, with 16 configurations across their models. For example, the 2015 Bryant Calandra with a 4.3L MerCruiser engine was noted for its performance, though some owners felt that higher-powered options provided better value compared to competitors like Yamaha.
- Handling: Models like the Calandra are lauded for their smooth ride and responsive handling. Owners report that Bryant Boats get on plane quickly and maintain stability, even in rough conditions, making them versatile for various boating activities.
Features: Designed for Comfort and Functionality
Bryant Boats are packed with features that cater to families and watersports enthusiasts. Their layouts prioritize spaciousness, storage, and convenience, setting them apart in the bowrider market.
Notable Features
- Spacious Seating: Models like the Calandra offer generous seating arrangements, often feeling larger than their listed length. For instance, the 23’6” Calandra was described by owners as feeling comparable to a 27-foot boat due to its clever layout.
- Ample Storage: Bryant Boats include large ski and wakeboard storage compartments, with some models featuring innovative solutions like passenger-side seats that open for additional storage. This design maximizes space without compromising comfort.
- Head Compartments: Many models, including the Calandra, include head compartments with sinks and toilets, a rare feature in boats of their size. This makes them ideal for extended family outings.
- Sport Porch/Swim Platform: The “sport porch” or extended swim platform is a polarizing feature. While some owners, like d_coyne1984, found it excessive compared to Yamaha’s transom lounge, others appreciated its utility for socializing at sandbars or docks. The platform’s design, however, raised concerns about potential damage when docking or safety risks if used while underway.
Chart: Bryant Boat Features Overview
Below is a visual representation of key features across popular Bryant models, created using syntax for clarity.
Models and Specifications
Bryant Boats offered 13 bowrider models, each with customizable options to suit different needs. Below is a table summarizing key specifications for popular models based on available information.
| Model | Length | Beam | Engine Options | Fuel Capacity | Passenger Capacity | MSRP (2015) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calandra | 23’6” | 8’6” | 4.3L MerCruiser to 8.2L | 31-50 gal | 9-12 | $55,500+ |
| 219 | 21’9” | 8’6” | 4.3L MerCruiser to 5.7L | 31 gal | 9 | $40,000-$50,000 |
| 233X | 23’3” | 8’6” | 5.0L to 8.2L MerCruiser | 50 gal | 12 | $63,000-$82,000 |
Note: Prices are approximate, based on dealer quotes and showroom observations. Actual prices vary by region, season, and negotiation.
Model Spotlight: The Calandra
The Bryant Calandra stands out as a flagship model, praised for its fit and finish. Owners like SCSTWG noted its spacious interior, high-quality materials, and versatile layout. The head compartment, in particular, was a highlight for families, offering amenities typically found in larger boats. However, the Calandra’s exterior design, particularly the sloped bow, received mixed reviews, with some preferring more traditional aesthetics.
Pricing and Value
Pricing for Bryant Boats varies significantly based on model, engine, and region. In 2015, a 21-foot Bryant with a 4.3L MerCruiser was quoted at approximately $55,500 MSRP, though showroom prices could drop to the low $40,000s. The 233X, a higher-end model, had an MSRP of over $82,000 but was often available for around $63,000. These prices positioned Bryant as a mid-to-high-tier option, offering quality comparable to Cobalt but at a more accessible price point.
Comparison with Competitors
- Yamaha: A 2015 24-foot Yamaha jetboat was often cited as offering more value for a similar price, with larger fuel tanks (50-58 gallons) and jet propulsion, which some owners preferred for performance and maintenance.
- Cobalt: Bryant’s build quality rivals Cobalt, but Cobalt’s sharper styling and stronger brand recognition often command higher resale values.
- Crownline: Some owners noted similarities between Bryant and Crownline hull designs, though Bryant’s wood-free construction and forward fuel tank placement set it apart.
Table: Bryant vs. Competitors (2015 Models)
| Brand | Model | Length | Price Range | Key Features | Resale Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bryant | Calandra | 23’6” | $40,000-$55,500 | Wood-free, forward fuel tank, head | Moderate |
| Yamaha | 242 Limited S | 24’ | $50,000-$60,000 | Jet propulsion, larger fuel tank | High |
| Cobalt | R5 | 25’8” | $80,000-$100,000 | Premium fit and finish, wood-free | High |
| Crownline | 225 SS | 22’5” | $45,000-$65,000 | Traditional design, wood components | Moderate |
Ownership Experience
Bryant Boats have a dedicated fanbase, with owners praising their reliability and ease of maintenance. Alton Bay Bob, an owner of a Bryant 219, described it as one of his best purchases, citing its stability, ease of cleaning, and lack of issues over two seasons. SJF echoed this sentiment, highlighting the 219’s excellent fit and finish and smooth ride in rough water.
Owner Feedback
- Positive: Owners consistently praise the build quality, comparing it to Cobalt. The forward fuel tank placement and wood-free construction are frequently mentioned as advantages. Customer service, particularly from dealers like Paugus Bay Marina, is also a highlight.
- Criticisms: The sport porch/swim platform is divisive, with some owners finding it impractical or aesthetically unappealing. Fuel tank size (31 gallons in some models) was a concern for owners like Glassman, who preferred larger tanks for extended trips.
- Maintenance: Since Bryant uses standard MerCruiser or Volvo Penta engines, parts and service are widely available, even for older models. Owners like PreliminaryBid noted that most components are sourced from third parties, ensuring availability even if the brand is no longer active.
Used Boat Considerations
For those considering a used Bryant, such as the 1994 18-foot model mentioned by sickwilly, key factors include:
- Maintenance History: Organized service records, as noted by tmh, are a strong indicator of a well-maintained boat.
- Condition: Check for solid floors and stringers, as confirmed by sickwilly’s inspection. Reupholstered interiors and accessories like bimini tops add value.
- Resale Value: Bryant’s limited name recognition can lead to lower resale values compared to brands like Cobalt or SeaRay, as Woodsy pointed out. However, their quality makes them a good buy for those prioritizing performance over brand prestige.
The Future of Bryant Boats
The acquisition by Correct Craft in 2017 raised questions about Bryant’s future. Some sources, like nurbsboatcunt, claim the brand is defunct, with production halted in Sweetwater, Tennessee. Others suggest that Correct Craft may have rebranded Bryant’s operations under Merritt Precision. The lack of recent updates on Bryant’s website and social media adds to the uncertainty. However, the availability of parts and the brand’s reputation make used Bryant Boats a viable option.
Chart: Bryant Boats Ownership Timeline
Tips for Prospective Buyers
- Test Drive: As advised by Phantom, test drives are crucial to assess handling, trim, and performance in various conditions.
- Inspect Maintenance Records: Look for organized service records to ensure the boat has been well-maintained.
- Negotiate Pricing: Bryant’s pricing can vary significantly by region and season. Use this to your advantage, as demonstrated by octavio3311’s showroom observations.
- Consider Resale Value: While Bryant offers excellent quality, their lower name recognition may impact resale. Factor this into your budget.
- Check Warranty Coverage: For newer models, verify warranty status, as most components are covered by third-party providers like Brunswick.
Conclusion
Bryant Boats combine quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and family-friendly features, making them a compelling choice for recreational boaters. Their wood-free construction, forward fuel tank placement, and robust warranty set them apart, while models like the Calandra offer spacious, versatile layouts. Despite uncertainties about their current production status, Bryant’s legacy endures in the used market, where their durability and performance continue to impress. Whether you’re drawn to their unique sport porch or prioritize their Cobalt-like quality at a lower price point, Bryant Boats offer a rewarding ownership experience for those who value substance over flash.
For more information on pricing or to explore available models, visit local dealers or check secondary marketplaces like Craigslist. Always test drive and inspect maintenance records to ensure you’re getting a boat that matches your needs and budget.
Happy boating!
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