Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport Review
If you’re in the market for a small, versatile, and virtually unsinkable boat, the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is likely on your radar. This nimble vessel stands out as an ideal choice for first-time boat owners, families, or anyone looking for a reliable and low-maintenance watercraft. With its exceptional build quality and thoughtful design, the 130 Super Sport lives up to Boston Whaler’s reputation as “The Unsinkable Legend.”
This review will take you through every aspect of the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport, from its design and performance to its features, customization options, and overall value. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether this boat fits your needs.
Overview of the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport
The Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is a 13-foot compact boat that’s designed for versatility. Despite its small size, it’s incredibly stable, making it suitable for various activities, including fishing, cruising, or even watersports.
- Length Overall: 13’1″
- Beam: 5’10”
- Draft: 9″
- Weight: 695 lbs (without engine)
- Fuel Capacity: 6.5 gallons
- Max Capacity: 4 people or 525 lbs
- Engine Options: Up to 40 HP
This boat is small enough to be stored in a garage or transported easily on a trailer, yet it offers enough power and stability to handle a variety of conditions on the water.
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout features of the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is its robust construction. Boston Whaler boats are known for their foam-filled hulls, which make them virtually unsinkable. This design not only enhances safety but also contributes to the boat’s durability and longevity.
Hull Design
The 130 Super Sport features a classic Boston Whaler hull with a modified V-shape. This design provides excellent stability and ensures a smooth ride, even in choppy waters. You’ll appreciate how steady it feels underfoot, whether you’re at rest or cruising at full speed.
Fit and Finish
From the stainless-steel hardware to the marine-grade upholstery, every component on the 130 Super Sport exudes quality. The gel coat finish is glossy and durable, protecting the boat from UV rays and the harsh marine environment.
Compact Yet Spacious
Despite its small footprint, the boat is designed to maximize usable space. The open deck layout gives you room to move around, while strategically placed seating and storage compartments keep everything organized.
Performance
For a 13-foot boat, the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport delivers impressive performance.
Engine Options
The boat is typically paired with a Mercury FourStroke outboard engine, ranging from 25 HP to 40 HP. The 40 HP engine is the most popular choice, offering a good balance of speed and efficiency.
With the 40 HP engine, you can expect a top speed of around 30–35 MPH and a comfortable cruising speed of 20–25 MPH. This makes the 130 Super Sport suitable for everything from casual outings to towing a tube or small water skier.
Handling
You’ll love how responsive the boat feels. The lightweight design and V-hull allow it to turn on a dime, making it easy to navigate tight spaces or busy waterways. It’s also stable enough for beginners to handle without feeling intimidated.
Fuel Efficiency
The 130 Super Sport’s small size and efficient engine make it incredibly fuel-efficient. The 6.5-gallon portable fuel tank provides enough range for a full day of fun on the water without frequent refueling.
Usability and Versatility
One of the biggest selling points of the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is its versatility. This boat can adapt to various activities, making it a great all-rounder.
Fishing
If you’re an angler, the 130 Super Sport can be customized with fishing features like rod holders and a trolling motor. Its stability and shallow draft make it perfect for fishing in lakes, rivers, and even coastal waters.
Recreational Use
For families, the boat’s simplicity and safety are major advantages. Whether you’re cruising, exploring coves, or towing a tube, the 130 Super Sport provides plenty of fun without complicated systems or high maintenance.
Tender Boat
Thanks to its small size and easy handling, the 130 Super Sport also serves as an excellent tender for larger yachts.
Comfort and Features
While the 130 Super Sport is primarily a utility boat, it doesn’t skimp on comfort and features.
Seating
The boat comes with bench-style seating, which is both comfortable and functional. The seats can be reconfigured or removed to suit your needs, offering flexibility for different activities.
Storage
Despite its compact size, the 130 Super Sport has several storage compartments, including:
- Under-seat storage
- A lockable console storage compartment
- Dedicated space for the portable fuel tank
This ensures you have enough room for gear, life jackets, and other essentials without cluttering the deck.
Safety Features
Safety is a hallmark of Boston Whaler boats, and the 130 Super Sport is no exception. The foam-filled hull provides peace of mind, while features like the grab rails and a swim ladder enhance safety for all passengers.
Customization Options
One of the great things about the 130 Super Sport is how customizable it is. Boston Whaler offers a range of options and accessories to tailor the boat to your needs.
Factory Options
- Bimini Top: Provides shade on sunny days.
- Fishing Package: Includes rod holders and a cooler.
- Towing Arch: Adds versatility for watersports.
Aftermarket Upgrades
You can also personalize your 130 Super Sport with aftermarket additions like GPS systems, fish finders, or upgraded seating.
Maintenance and Durability
The Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is designed to be low-maintenance, which is a big plus for busy boaters.
Durability
The foam-filled hull is resistant to dents, cracks, and leaks, making it one of the most durable boats in its class. You’ll also appreciate how the stainless-steel hardware resists corrosion, even in saltwater environments.
Easy Cleaning
The non-skid deck and fiberglass construction make the boat easy to clean. A quick rinse with freshwater after each use is usually all that’s needed to keep it looking great.
Price and Value
The Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is priced higher than some competitors in the compact boat category, with a base price starting around $18,000 to $20,000 (excluding optional features and upgrades). However, the higher price is justified by its exceptional build quality, reliability, and resale value.
While it might not be the cheapest option, the 130 Super Sport offers a level of quality and peace of mind that’s hard to match.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Unsinkable Design: Superior safety and durability.
- Versatility: Suitable for a range of activities.
- Easy Handling: Ideal for beginners and experienced boaters alike.
- Low Maintenance: Durable materials and simple systems.
- Resale Value: Holds its value better than many competitors.
Cons
- Price: Higher initial cost compared to similar-sized boats.
- Limited Capacity: Best suited for small groups or solo outings.
- Customization Costs: Adding options can quickly increase the price.
Who Is the Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport For?
This boat is an excellent choice if:
- You’re a first-time boat owner looking for a reliable, low-maintenance vessel.
- You want a compact boat for fishing, cruising, or watersports.
- You value safety and durability above all else.
- You need a boat that’s easy to store and transport.
However, if you’re looking for a boat with more capacity or enclosed spaces, you might want to consider a larger model.
Conclusion
The Boston Whaler 130 Super Sport is a small boat that punches well above its weight. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or just enjoying a day on the water, this versatile vessel delivers on all fronts. Its unsinkable design, high-quality materials, and thoughtful features make it a standout choice for anyone in the market for a compact and reliable boat.
If you’re looking for a boat that’s safe, fun, and built to last, the 130 Super Sport deserves a closer look. Take it for a spin—you won’t be disappointed.
