Uniflite Yachts Review

Uniflite began manufacturing small fiberglass runabouts in 1958. This company was once one of the two of the largest West Coast builders of powerboats. Between 1968 and 1972, Uniflite supplied 1500 fiberglass boats, up to 52 feet long, to the U.S. Navy for use in the Vietnam theatre.

The 1980’s saw the demise of Uniflite. That decade the company expanded to began offering sedans, family cruisers and motor yachts. There was considerable debate regarding the construction of yachts by Uniflite. Gelcoat blistering, both above and below the waterline, began plaguing the company. Disgruntled owners made numerous claims. After the final year of production, Chris Craft acquired the company’s assets. The Yacht Council (Yachtcouncil.com) reports that Uniflite is no longer in business.

One yacht produced by Uniflite and available pre-owned is the 1984 Sportfish 48-footer. This yacht features a master stateroom with a centering queen berth. The guest room has upper and lower bunks with an en-suite bath. The galley is U-shaped and comes with double stainless steel sinks, sub-zero refrigerator and barrel chairs. The fiberglass hull and twin Detroit Diesel engines allow this boat to reach 24 knots. There is a number of websites listing used vessels constructed by Uniflite. Power & Motor Yacht posts contact information for this defunct company at Unifliteworld.com.

Pricing

Uniflite no longer produces new yachts. Pre-owned boats list for around $150,000 or less.

Pros

• The only units available are pre-owned. This keeps the pricing affordable for a yacht.
• The company has been out of business since the 1980’s. In all likelihood, the gelcoat issues have been resolved on the used units available on the market.

Cons

• Since Uniflite no longer exists there will be no one to contact with questions.
• Unhappy customers essentially drove this company out of business.

Featured Models

Sport Fisherman, Motor Yachts 40, 42, 46 and 48

Conclusion

Uniflite was a concern that burned hot when in operation. They supplied boats to the Navy and carried a solid reputation. When they expanded their line, the problems began. Customers reported severe gelcoat blistering above and below the waterline. This essentially led to the closing of this manufacturer. They never recovered from the impact of what appears to have been a massive problem. Used yachts by Uniflite are at least twenty years old. Chances are the primary problem is corrected by now. If you are in the market for a used yacht at a good price, Uniflite is one to consider.