Ahoy Matey! You've Got Yourself a Boston Whaler, But What Kind?
So, you've become the proud captain of a Boston Whaler – fantastic choice! But hold on a sec, you're not quite sure which specific model you've got cruising the seven seas (or, more likely, a very delightful lake). Don't worry, landlubber, this guide will have you shouting "Eureka!" faster than you can say "unsinkable legend."
Step 1: Become a HIN Detective
Your first stop is the Hull Identification Number (HIN), basically your boat's birth certificate. This plaque is usually located on the transom (the flat bit at the back). Look for a string of letters and numbers – that's your golden ticket. Remember, this method only works for boats built after November 1972.
Decoding the HIN Code (prepare to feel like a secret agent):
- The first three letters (e.g., BWC) are the manufacturer code. In your case, you're looking for BWC, which stands for Boston Whaler, obviously.
- The next five characters are your boat's serial number. Not much mystery there.
- The ninth character tells you the month of production (A = January, B = February, etc.).
- The last digit reveals the year of production (e.g., 9 for 1989).
- The final two digits represent the model year (not necessarily the same as the year of production).
Step 2: Cracking the Code
Once you've deciphered your HIN, hit the internet like a digital pirate! There are resources galore dedicated to Boston Whalers, like the continuouswave.com forum or the Boston Whaler Owners Group on Facebook. Armed with your HIN and some friendly online sleuths, you'll crack the code and discover the exact model of your trusty Whaler.
Step 3: Embrace the Mystery (Maybe)
What if your boat predates 1972, or the gremlins stole the HIN plaque? Fear not! Some classic Whaler models have distinct features. If you can identify unique elements like the bow shape or console layout, you can compare them to photos online. There's also a chance you might have a "splashed" Whaler, a boat built from a Whaler mold by another company. But hey, even a mystery Whaler is a pretty darn cool Whaler, right?
Bonus Tip: Contact Boston Whaler Themselves
For the truly determined captains, Boston Whaler customer service might be able to help if you provide your HIN or any other identifying details. They might just have the missing piece of the puzzle in their dusty archives!
FAQs:
- How to find the HIN on my Boston Whaler?
Check the transom (the flat back section) for a plate with letters and numbers. - My HIN doesn't make sense! What now?
Don't panic! Double-check the code, then head to online resources or forums for help. - What if my Boston Whaler is older than 1972?
Look for distinct hull shapes or console layouts to compare with photos online. - I think I have a "splashed" Whaler. What should I do?
Embrace the uniqueness! It's still part of the Whaler family (sort of). - I'm totally lost. Can Boston Whaler help?
Possibly! Contact their customer service with any details you have about your boat.
