TIM HURLEY

RECREATIONAL BOAT OWNER – KODIAK, ALASKA

Back in 1994 I was needing a tender for my 33 footer and wanted something tough that would stand up to the weather that Kodiak Island dishes out. I found more than I was looking for when I discovered the 3 meter SOLAS / Naiad and could not believe my luck when I found out they were being built in Anchorage. I bought the boat sight unseen over the phone from Alan Shaw with a credit card and they delivered the boat to Northern Air Cargo for shipping to Kodiak. I received the boat the next day and it has lived outside its entire life. It is the toughest tender/raft I have ever owned. I added a set of Weaver Snap Davits and it easily swings up on my swim step and rides like a champ on the stern of my cruiser.

A couple of years ago one of the tube covers gave out and I went looking for Alan to see what could be done. Alan gave me a call back the next day. He would order the new covers and I could ship my boat down to Washington to him for repair. Shipping the boat from Kodiak to Bellingham was a very expensive option and was definitely not cost effective for me. After some thought, he asked if I was able to get the boat over to Homer for repair by one of his employees. He arranged for shipping the new covers from his shop in Bellingham to Homer and I was able to get the boat over there on the State Ferry at minimal cost. The boat turned out like brand new and I could not thank Alan Shaw enough for all he did for me.

I would have bought a new boat if need be as I am convinced that it is the best product available, not to mention the fantastic customer service provided by Alan after 17 years!