Question:
Just looked at the Century 3000SC at a boat show today. Looked like a
nicely made boat, but browsing the web, I've been reading about a couple of
guy's personal vendettas against Century for their poorly made boats.
Anybody know anything about the late model Century's? When did Yamaha buy
them? (1992?) Has the quality improved in the last 2-3 years? (They used to
offer a 5 year hull warranty...now it's 10 year). Any opinions on the boat?
Answer:
-The Century name was purchased by Yamaha somewhere around 1992.
It is my understanding that the hull designs and molds are from
another defunct boat company and really have nothing to do with
the former Century boats. Century was an old, proud manufacturer
of wooden boats and transitioned to fibreglass in 1968.
Overall, they had a decent reputation. The new, Yamaha era Centurys
were introduced initially as platforms for the Yamaha line of engines.
-I did quite a bit of research on Century boats, even speaking with one
of the design engineers at their factory in northern Florida.
They are using high grade materials throughout, such as Dupont resins,
multi-axial type glass, and top grade gelcoatings. I ended up with a
different brand, but here's my observations after crawling around the
boat and taking an extensive sea trial.
1. The 18 degree deadrise, while allowing for a 50mph+ top end speed,
caused a very hard ride. In choppy conditions, the boat slammed
severely, although it felt solid.
2. The cockpit freeboard is uncomfortably low. While at rest in a
sea with moderate swells, I felt I could easily go overboard as there
are no rails or toe-restraints. Also, the liner angles to the cockpit
floor, making it very difficult to steady yourself against the sides.
Obviously, appearance was placed before design in this area.
3. I was concerned about hull thickness, as the entire side of the
hull flexed when given a good whack with a fist. It was cored in
certain areas to increase rigidity, but not to my satisfaction.
Overall, I felt the boat was constructed as well as any in its class,
but unfortunately the designers chose to concentrate on aesthetics
rather than functional design.
-As I was interested in the Century boat also, what alternative boats would
you recommend in the same size & price class for heavy fishing & coastal /
island cruising?
-, heavy fishing AND coastal/island cruising? A 36' Hatteras would
do the trick! Just kidding of course............
How about a few qualifying questions:
1. What kind of ammenities do you require?
2. What will your percentage of use be (for example 80% fishing/20%
cruising)?
3. How often will you be using the boat?
4. Do you need overnight capabilities?
5. Are you open to various power options?
6. What kind of range do you need?
7. Would you consider pre-owned?
