Little River Yachts Review

Summary

Little River Yachts is the world’s leading producer of adventure rowing craft. Over its thirty-two years of existence, the company has produced over 10,000 adventure rowing craft. The founder is Bill Larson, a former Masters National Medalist in rowing. He oversees the production process of all boats. The company produces skiffs, rowing shells, and rowboats made of fiberglass and carbon-fiber, the strongest and lightest combination known to boat builders today. The company is based in Gainesville, Florida and all its boats are produced there. However, they ship factory direct to most parts of the United States. There are a few overseas distributors (e.g., Chile, Australia, Virgin Islands). In construction, the company has sliding seat rowing in its boats. There are also three methods of construction: carbon, double liner, and fiberglass. The carbon is the lightest (55 lbs.), the double liner is the most popular (105 lbs. and holds up to 4 people), and the fiberglass is the most economical (65 lbs. and holds 4 people).

Pricing

The price range for Little River yachts goes from $3995 to $6995 depending on the size of the vessel.

Pros

• Strong and lightweight due to carbon-fiber and fiberglass construction.
• Featured in a few boating magazines (e.g., Passagemaker).
• Good handling and stability in rough conditions.
• Outstanding customer service.

Cons

• Does not handle large waves particularly well.
• May have leaking problems.
• Customers disappointed with service.

Featured Models

There are two main series lines made by Little River Marine. They are the Heritage series and the Pro Am series. The Heritage features three models: the 12, 15, and 18. The 12 is the newest yacht tender and is a compact version of the 15 Sculling Skiff. As with all Heritages, the 12 Yacht Tender comes with sliding seat monorail and a fixed seat rowing bench. It is described as a very versatile boat. It is 12.5’ long and has a carrying capacity of 560 lbs. The Heritage 15 is 15’3” long and has a Coast Guard rated carrying capacity of 431 lbs. It comes in a single or double hull. The double may be converted back to a single. The Heritage 18 is 17’8” long and has a carrying capacity of 550 lbs. It better accommodates family excursions. The second series line by Little River is the Pro Am series. This consists of the Pro Am 25 and the Pro Am Elite. Both boats are 25’2” long. The weight capacity on the Elite is 200 lbs. The 25 is best suited for rowers over 215 lbs.

Conclusion

Little River Marine is the world’s foremost producer of adventure watercraft, producing skiffs, rowing shells, and rowboats. It has an experienced, medal-winning owner who oversees the construction process of its boats. They have been featured in a couple boating magazines. The company exports its boats to most parts of the United States and has even sent some around the world.