Finding the Right Aluminium Fishing Boat: A Buyer's Guide for Australian Anglers
"Whether you're chasing flathead in Victorian estuaries or heading offshore for kingfish, choosing the right boat makes all the difference. This guide covers what to look for when shopping for aluminium fishing boats, from offshore plate boats to popular Quintrex models and where to find the best deals on new and used options."
Why Aluminium Boats Dominate Australian Waters
Aluminium hulls have become the go-to choice for Australian anglers, and for good reason. They're lighter than fibreglass, easier to tow, and virtually maintenance-free. Unlike fibreglass, aluminium doesn't blister, crack, or absorb water over time. For fishing in our often-unforgiving conditions, that durability translates to decades of reliable service.
Offshore Plate Boats for Sale: Built for Serious Conditions
If you're venturing beyond the bay, offshore plate boats offer the heavy-duty construction needed for open water. These vessels use a thicker aluminium plate (typically 4–6mm) rather than a pressed sheet, resulting in a stronger, more rigid hull that handles chop and rough conditions far better than lighter alternatives.
What to look for in an offshore plate boat:
Hull thickness — 4mm minimum for the hull bottom, with 5–6mm preferred for serious offshore work
Deep-V hull design — A sharper deadrise (18–22 degrees) cuts through waves rather than pounding over them
Self-draining deck — Essential for offshore, where spray and the occasional wave over the bow are inevitable
Quality welds — Inspect seams closely; continuous welds are stronger than stitch welds
Adequate freeboard — Higher sides keep you drier and safer in rough water
Popular Australian brands building quality plate boats include Bar Crusher, Yellowfin, Stabicraft, and Formosa. Expect to pay anywhere from $50,000 for a basic new package to well over $150,000 for a fully rigged offshore weapon.
Used Aluminium Fishing Boats for Sale in Victoria
Victoria's diverse waterways—from Port Phillip Bay to the Gippsland Lakes and beyond—mean there's always a healthy market for secondhand aluminium boats. Buying used can save you 30–50% compared to new, and a well-maintained aluminium boat has plenty of life left even after a decade of use.
Where to find used aluminium boats in Victoria:
Boat dealers — Many stock quality trade-ins alongside new inventory. Dealers in areas such as Leigh Martin Marine, Geelong Boating Centre, and Bairnsdale Boats & More typically offer a good selection.
Online marketplaces — Boat Sales and Facebook Marketplace are the main hunting grounds. Set up alerts for your preferred specs.
Boat shows — Melbourne Boat Show often features used boat sections and dealer clearances.
Inspection checklist for used aluminium boats:
Hull integrity — Look for dents, cracks around welds, and signs of repair. Minor dents are cosmetic; cracks are serious.
Transom condition — Check for corrosion or stress cracks where the motor mounts.
Electrical systems — Test all lights, pumps, and electronics. Rewiring is tedious and expensive.
Trailer — Inspect bearings, rollers, winch, and coupling. A neglected trailer can cost thousands to bring up to spec.
Motor hours — For outboards, under 500 hours is low use; over 1,000 warrants closer inspection of compression and service history.
Quintrex Boat Price: What to Expect (2025 Guide)
Quintrex continues to be one of Australia’s most trusted aluminium boat brands, offering everything from compact tinnies to serious offshore fishing platforms. One key change in recent years is that most dealers now advertise complete packages, meaning the boat, motor, and trailer are included in the price.
Based on current listings from dealers like Leigh Martin Marine, here’s what you can realistically expect to pay in 2025 - 2026.
Latest Quintrex Boat Prices (Package Deals)
Small Tinnies & Explorer Range (3.7m – 4.0m)
Expect to pay around $14,000 – $25,000
These are ideal entry-level boats for rivers, lakes, and calm waters. Simple, affordable, and easy to maintain.
Renegade Range (4.2m – 4.8m)
Typically $30,000 – $45,000
A popular choice for anglers, offering a solid balance between price, performance, and durability. Great for estuaries and light offshore use.
Fishabout & Runabout Range (4.3m – 5.0m)
Around $35,000 – $50,000+
Designed for families and versatility, these models feature windscreen layouts and more comfort for cruising and watersports.
Larger Offshore Models (5.5m and above)
From $60,000 to $120,000+
Built for serious fishing and offshore conditions, these boats come with more power, space, and advanced features.
What’s Included in the Price?
Most modern Quintrex listings are ready-to-go packages, which usually include:
Outboard motor (commonly Mercury)
Trailer
Basic electronics and accessories
Registration and safety gear
This means the advertised price is much closer to what you’ll actually pay to get on the water.
"Prices vary significantly based on motor hours, electronics, and overall condition."
Making Your Decision
The right boat depends entirely on how you fish. Ask yourself:
Where will you fish most often? — Sheltered bays and rivers don't need offshore plate construction. Overspending on a capability you won't use is money better put toward electronics or a bigger motor.
How many people? — Be realistic. A 4.5m tinny is cramped with three adults fishing.
Tow vehicle limitations — Check your vehicle's towing capacity and ball weight limits before falling in love with a boat.
Storage — Measure your garage or carport. Many buyers forget to account for the motor and trailer.
Whether you're after a used Quintrex runabout for bay fishing or a serious offshore plate boat for blue-water adventures, take your time, inspect thoroughly, and don't let urgency push you into a bad deal. The right boat at the right price is worth waiting for.
