Discover why Northwest Boat Center in Portland, Oregon, excels in welded aluminum boats with top-notch service and quality. Read customer reviews and explore boat specs.
Nestled in Oregon City, just south of Portland, Northwest Boat Center stands as a beacon for boating enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest. Renowned for its welded aluminum boats, this family-run dealership has carved a niche by offering durable vessels tailored for the region’s demanding waters. From the rugged Columbia River to the choppy Pacific coast, Northwest Boat Center’s boats are built to endure. This article dives deep into customer testimonials, the quality of their boats, their personalized service, and why they’re a top choice for boaters. We’ll also explore boat specifications, pricing, and user feedback to provide a comprehensive guide for prospective buyers.
About Northwest Boat Center
Northwest Boat Center, located at 18649 Pacific Hwy, Oregon City, OR 97045, is a family-operated business specializing in boat sales, service, and storage. Managed by Pat M., the dealership carries a range of new and used boats, including brands like MB, Supreme, Centurion, and their signature Northwest Boats. Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the dealership is closed on Sundays. They accept credit cards, making transactions seamless for customers.
The company’s strength lies in its family-run ethos, fostering a welcoming environment where customers feel valued. Unlike high-pressure dealerships, Northwest Boat Center emphasizes honesty, knowledge, and personalized service, as evidenced by numerous customer reviews.
Why Choose Welded Aluminum Boats?
Welded aluminum boats are a staple in the Pacific Northwest due to their durability and low maintenance. Unlike fiberglass boats, which can absorb water and require extensive upkeep, aluminum boats are nearly indestructible and resist deterioration. They’re ideal for navigating the region’s rocky rivers, shallow waters, and unpredictable coastal conditions.
Advantages of Aluminum Boats
- Durability: Aluminum boats can withstand impacts from rocks, logs, and gravel, making them perfect for rugged environments like the Columbia River or Hells Canyon.
- Low Maintenance: No waxing or painting is required, though an aluminum protectant like Sharkhide can prevent oxidation.
- High Resale Value: Aluminum boats retain 80-90% of their original value due to their longevity and rising material costs.
- Lightweight: Aluminum is lighter than fiberglass, improving fuel efficiency and ease of towing.
- Customizability: Northwest Boats allows buyers to tailor designs to their needs, from engine size to deck layout.
Drawbacks of Aluminum Boats
- Ride Quality: Aluminum boats can have a harsher, “corky” ride compared to fiberglass, especially in choppy waters.
- Noise: The material can be noisy, described as a “tin can” effect, which may fatigue passengers on long trips.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Aluminum can be cold to the touch in winter and hot in summer, requiring coverings like SeaDek for comfort.
- Corrosion Risk: Without proper care, aluminum can pit or corrode, especially in saltwater or with improper bunk materials like pressure-treated lumber.
Customer Testimonials: The Heart of Northwest Boat Center
Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of Northwest Boat Center’s commitment to excellence. Below are highlights from satisfied buyers, showcasing the dealership’s strengths.
Positive Feedback
- Honesty and Trust
Customers frequently praise the dealership’s transparent and ethical approach. Logan Y. noted, “Pat and Ian at NW are upfront, honest, and great people to deal with!” Similarly, Bob Belden from Portland shared, “I met Buzz at the boat show and found my next adventure… I can honestly say this company is a very honest dealer.” Craig Rodgers echoed this sentiment, describing a “zero pressure attitude” and a fair deal on a used Sea Ray runabout. - Knowledgeable Staff
The staff’s expertise is a recurring theme. Jim H., a boating industry veteran, called Buzz and Alec “the perfect professionals” for their ability to sell his boat quickly at a fair price. Eric G. appreciated Buzz’s accessibility, stating, “He has been just a phone call or text away for any questions or concerns.” Alec, in particular, is lauded for his detailed guidance. A reviewer shared, “Alec was clear about what not to upgrade considering how we plan to use the boat,” offering practical advice on options like upholstery and stereo systems. - Personalized Service
The family-run atmosphere fosters a personal touch. Cynthia M. described an “excellent buying process” for a 2018 Supreme S202 purchased at the Portland Boat Show. Denny K., a first-time boat buyer from Seattle, praised Buzz for providing photos and videos to facilitate a remote purchase, followed by Alec’s thorough walkthrough of the boat’s features. Nathan Haynie from Lake Oswego called Northwest Boat Center “the most professional dealership I have ever done business with.” - Quality of Boats
Customers rave about the durability and performance of Northwest Boats. A forum user, “sir-vivor,” who owns a 27-foot cabin-style Northwest boat, said, “The quality and craftsmanship is number one… you get to build the boat that you want.” Another user, “fishorgolf,” highlighted their 2005 Freedom 196, noting, “I hold a welder’s cert card and have seen good quality built boats and some equal that of a NWJ.” The boats’ ability to handle rough waters, from the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean, is a common praise. - Customer Satisfaction
Overall satisfaction is high, with many customers recommending the dealership. Matt W. said, “I would easily recommend going to see NW Boat Sports if you’re interested in an MB, Supreme, Centurion, or any of their used boats.” Keith Silva from Post Falls, Idaho, bought a Formula 260 SS sight unseen and found it “everything they said it would be.”
Negative Feedback
While overwhelmingly positive, a few reviews highlight areas for improvement. Jean F. from Scappoose, OR, had a negative experience with a consignment purchase, claiming an expensive item was missing from the boat despite being advertised. They noted, “Alec pretended not to know what we were talking about… I will not do business with them again.” This suggests potential issues with consignment oversight, though it’s an isolated complaint.
Summary of User Reviews
| Reviewer | Rating | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logan Y. | 5/5 | Honest, upfront staff; great people to deal with | None mentioned |
| Cynthia M. | 5/5 | Excellent buying process at Portland Boat Show | None mentioned |
| Matt W. | 5/5 | Knowledgeable staff; recommends MB, Supreme, Centurion boats | None mentioned |
| Jim H. | 5/5 | Professional, quick sale of boat at fair price | None mentioned |
| Denny K. | 5/5 | Accommodating for remote purchase; thorough walkthrough | None mentioned |
| Eric G. | 5/5 | Honest, accessible owner; dream purchase of 37’ Carver | None mentioned |
| Jean F. | 1/5 | Positive experience with Buzz; missing item in consignment boat | Poor experience with Alec; item theft |
| Bob Belden | 5/5 | Honest dealer; great deal on 2025 Boulton Sentinel Pro | None mentioned |
Boat Models and Specifications
Northwest Boat Center offers a range of welded aluminum boats, including the Freedom, Lightning, and Signature series, now manufactured by Renaissance Marine Group (RMG), which also produces Duckworth and Weldcraft. Below are key models and their specifications, based on user discussions and available data.
Northwest Jet Freedom 196
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 19’6” |
| Beam | 7’8” |
| Hull | Variable deadrise (smoother ride in rough water) |
| Engine Options | Honda 135–225 hp; Yamaha 150–200 hp |
| Fuel Capacity | 50 gallons |
| Features | Walkthrough windshield, 34” sides, optional crab davit, electric downriggers |
| Price Range (New) | $30,000–$50,000 |
| Price Range (Used) | $20,000–$35,000 (depending on condition and extras) |
User Feedback: “fishorgolf” praised the 2005 model for its fuel efficiency and suitability for solo or small group use. “neelemac” noted excellent gas mileage with a 135 hp Honda, reaching 35 mph.
Northwest Jet Lightning 218
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 21’8” |
| Beam | 8’0” |
| Hull | Variable deadrise |
| Engine Options | Yamaha 150–200 hp; Honda 225 hp |
| Fuel Capacity | 60 gallons |
| Features | Walkthrough windshield, full-sized seat backs, customizable layout |
| Price Range (New) | $40,000–$60,000 |
| Price Range (Used) | $25,000–$40,000 |
User Feedback: “kenzmad” found the 150 hp Yamaha underpowered but praised the fit and finish. “Poindexter” loved the fuel efficiency and quieter ride with a 225 hp Honda prop.
Northwest Jet Signature Series
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 20’–24’ |
| Beam | 8’0”–8’6” |
| Hull | Variable deadrise |
| Engine Options | – Mercury 350 MAG MPI- Honda 150–225 hp- Inboard options (e.g., 8.1L) |
| Fuel Capacity | 60–80 gallons |
| Features | – Customizable sides (e.g., 34” for easier water access)- Walkthrough windshield- TR-1 autopilot |
| Price Range (New) | $50,000–$80,000 |
| Price Range (Used) | $30,000–$50,000 |
User Feedback: “huntorfish?” customized a 24’ model with a 15 hp Honda kicker and reached 46.8 mph. “BalouSC” noted versatility for ocean and lake use with a Mercury 350 MAG MPI.
Chart: Northwest Boat Models
Performance in Pacific Northwest Waters
Northwest Boats are designed for the region’s challenging conditions. Users report excellent performance in:
- Columbia River: Wide, protected cockpits and high sides handle wind and waves well.
- Pacific Ocean: Durable hulls withstand coastal chop, with jet models excelling in shallow waters.
- Hells Canyon and Snake River: Jet sleds navigate rocky, shallow rivers, though debris in intake grates can cause issues.
A user, “peterpatricelli,” shared a story of a 22’ sled surviving a 30+ mph collision with boulders, requiring only a minor weld repair. Another, “cracked_ribs,” noted that jet sleds can run in as little as 5” of water when on plane, ideal for shallow rivers.
Comparison with Competitors
Northwest Boat Center competes with brands like North River, Alumaweld, Duckworth, and Weldcraft. Here’s a comparison:
| Brand | Pros | Cons | Price Range (New) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest | Customizable, high resale value, durable | Harsher ride, noisy | $30,000–$80,000 |
| North River | Spacious, versatile, strong reputation | Similar ride issues, higher cost | $35,000–$90,000 |
| Alumaweld | Affordable, durable | Less refined finish | $25,000–$60,000 |
| Duckworth | High-quality welds, premium features | Limited model range | $40,000–$100,000 |
Northwest stands out for its customization options and family-run service, while competitors like Duckworth offer premium finishes at a higher price.
Why Northwest Boats Are Rare in the Northeast
Users on forums like TheHullTruth.com question why aluminum boats like Northwest’s are uncommon in the Northeast. Key reasons include:
- Regional Preferences: Fiberglass boats dominate due to their smoother ride and aesthetic appeal.
- Manufacturing Hubs: Aluminum boats are prevalent in the Northwest due to historical access to cheap aluminum and a culture of rugged boating.
- Maintenance Perceptions: Some Northeastern boaters believe fiberglass repairs are easier, though aluminum welds are straightforward with skilled fabricators.
- Climate: Aluminum’s temperature sensitivity (hot in summer, cold in winter) may deter buyers in colder climates.
However, users like “wdlfbio” note that aluminum boats attract attention in the Northeast for their durability, with some owners shipping them cross-country.
Tips for Prospective Buyers
- Test in Rough Conditions: As “jet” advised, test boats in windy, choppy waters to assess ride quality.
- Choose the Right Engine: For 21–22’ models, users recommend 200 hp over 150 hp for better performance, though 150 hp is sufficient for lighter center consoles.
- Check for Self-Bailing Decks: Avoid foam flotation in bilges to prevent corrosion, as suggested by “Chaps.”
- Protect Against Corrosion: Use Sharkhide or similar protectants and avoid pressure-treated lumber bunks.
- Customize Thoughtfully: Work with the dealership to tailor features like walkthrough windshields or TR-1 autopilots to your needs.
Conclusion
Northwest Boat Center in Portland, Oregon, is a trusted name in welded aluminum boats, offering durability, customization, and exceptional service. Customer testimonials highlight the dealership’s honesty, knowledgeable staff, and family-run atmosphere. Their boats, like the Freedom 196 and Lightning 218, excel in the Pacific Northwest’s rugged waters, with high resale value and low maintenance. While aluminum boats have drawbacks like a harsher ride and noise, their benefits make them a top choice for serious boaters. Whether you’re fishing the Columbia River or cruising coastal waters, Northwest Boat Center delivers quality and trust. Visit them at 18649 Pacific Hwy or explore their offerings to join the Northwest Boat Center family.
Happy Boating!
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