FAQ
What boat brands do you sell?
Our primary fiberglass lineup features premium cruising and offshore brands, including Grady‑White, Ranger Tugs, Cutwater, Boston Whaler, and Solara. These manufacturers offer offshore fishing boats, trailerable cruisers, pilothouse models, and versatile family boats designed for comfort, performance, and reliability.
We also offer a wide selection of inflatable boats, RIBs, and tenders from trusted manufacturers. Our inflatable lineup includes Zodiac, Highfield, Achilles, and AB Inflatables. These brands cover lightweight roll‑ups, performance RIBs, and yacht‑ready tenders.
Note that inventory varies between Ventura and Richmond, and our team can help you compare models and choose the right setup for your needs.
What outboard brands do you sell?
We carry a full range of gas and electric outboard motors from leading manufacturers. Our lineup includes Yamaha, Honda, Mercury, Tohatsu, and Torqeedo. These brands offer portable motors for dinghies and tenders, mid‑range options for RIBs, and high‑output models for larger vessels. Inventory varies between Ventura and Richmond, and our sales team can help you compare horsepower, weight, features, and rigging options to match your boat.
Do both locations have showrooms?
Yes. Ventura features a large indoor showroom with a wide selection of inflatables, RIBs, and outboards on display. Richmond offers a smaller but curated showroom focused on popular tenders, RIBs, and outboards. If you want to see a specific model, we can arrange transfers between locations when possible.
Do you sell boats online?
Yes. Boat Specialists is one of the largest online dealers for inflatable boats and outboards on the West Coast. You can browse inventory, compare models, and purchase directly through our website. Shipping is available throughout the United States.
Can I schedule an appointment to view boats in person?
Yes. Appointments are encouraged, especially if you want to see a specific model or discuss rigging options. Walk‑ins are welcome at both Ventura and Richmond, but scheduled visits ensure dedicated time with a sales specialist.
Can you help me choose the right boat or tender?
Absolutely. Our sales team can walk you through sizing, hull types, tube materials, seating layouts, and motor options. We can also help you match a tender to your yacht or select a boat that fits your recreational style.
Do you offer outfitting or customization?
Yes. We can help you select electronics, safety gear, accessories, and rigging options. This includes chartplotters, VHF radios, audio systems, lighting, and custom configurations that match your boating plans.
Is financing available?
Yes. Financing is available for both boats and outboards. You can apply online or speak with our sales team for guidance.
Do you install motors or rigging for new boats?
Yes. Our service department can complete full rigging, electrical work, steering installation, and setup for your new boat. This includes single-engine, twin-engine, and kicker installations.
Do you sell parts and accessories for boats?
Yes. We carry a wide variety of parts and accessories for tenders, inflatables, RIBs, and larger fiberglass boats. Our selection includes rigging hardware, safety gear, electronics, pumps, repair materials, storage solutions, maintenance supplies, and general boating essentials.
We have a dedicated Parts and Accessories Store located inside the service building at our Ventura service center. The store stocks everyday items as well as specialized components for many boat and motor brands. If you need a specific or hard‑to‑find part, our team can help locate it or source it through our network of manufacturers and suppliers.
Do you offer boat lettering and registration (CF) numbers?
Yes. We create custom boat lettering and registration numbers in-house using our professional vinyl-cutting equipment. Our heavy-duty, marine-grade letters and numbers are designed to withstand the harsh boating environment, and our experienced team can professionally apply them to your vessel for a clean, long-lasting finish.
Do you accept trade‑ins?
We consider trade‑ins depending on the model and condition of the boat or motor. All trade‑ins are reviewed on a case‑by‑case basis, and customers must contact our sales team first to confirm whether their vessel qualifies. We only accept outboard‑powered boats and do not take sailboats or inboard‑powered vessels. To begin the evaluation, you can call our team or submit the trade‑in form online with photos and details.
Do you sell pre‑owned boats and outboards?
Yes. We offer pre‑owned boats and outboards when available, and inventory varies throughout the year. Pre‑owned units are inspected by our service team before being listed, and each model is evaluated for condition, performance, and overall value. Availability differs between Ventura and Richmond, and our sales team can let you know what is currently in stock or coming soon. If you are looking for something specific, we can help you monitor incoming inventory and notify you when a suitable boat or motor arrives.
Can I order a custom‑built boat?
Yes. Many of our brands offer factory customization options. We can help you select colors, layouts, tube materials, seating configurations, and accessories, then coordinate the build directly with the manufacturer. Our service center can complete additional custom work such as roll bars, bimini tops, stereo systems, cabin features, and many other upgrades that enhance comfort, performance, and usability. If you have a specific vision for your boat, our team can walk you through the available factory options and the custom work we can complete in‑house.
Do you offer package deals for boat and motor purchases?
Yes. We frequently offer package pricing when you purchase a boat and motor together. Our team can walk you through current promotions and bundled savings.
Do you have boats available for immediate pickup?
Yes. Both Ventura and Richmond maintain in‑stock inventory that is ready for purchase. Availability varies by season, and our team can confirm what is currently on the floor.
Can I test a motor before buying?
We can demonstrate features, performance expectations, and rigging options in the showroom. Water tests may be available depending on the model and location. Contact our sales team for details.
Do you offer delivery or shipping?
Yes. We can arrange delivery throughout California and coordinate shipping anywhere in the United States. Shipping rates depend on size, destination, and carrier availability.
Can you help me compare different brands or models?
Yes. Our team can explain differences in hull design, tube materials, performance, warranty coverage, and long‑term maintenance. We can also help you compare models side by side in the showroom.
Do you offer seasonal promotions or discounts?
Yes. We participate in manufacturer promotions, holiday sales, and seasonal discounts. Our sales team can let you know what is currently available.
Can I pick up online orders at the showroom?
Yes. You can pick up online orders at either Ventura or Richmond. Some items may need to be transferred between locations, and our team will coordinate timing.