Best Boat Dealers in Invercargill: Top 3 Experts for Your Perfect Vessel
Looking for the best boat dealers in Invercargill to explore the stunning waters of Southland? Invercargill, surrounded by coastal gems like Bluff and the Foveaux Strait, is a haven for boating enthusiasts eager to fish, cruise, or dive. These three top-tier marine businesses offer quality boats, expert craftsmanship, and exceptional service, ensuring you find the ideal vessel for your adventures. From rugged aluminium fishing boats to family-friendly cruisers, they cater to the region’s unique maritime needs.
We’ve carefully selected three of Invercargill’s finest boat dealers, each with a verified website, deep industry experience, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Specializing in custom builds, new and used boats, and comprehensive servicing, they understand the demands of Southland’s waters. Explore our list to discover the perfect dealer for your next boat in Invercargill!
1. Steve Gooding Marine
About the Business
Steve Gooding Marine, established in 1996, is a cornerstone of Invercargill’s boating community, located on Mersey Street. With nearly three decades of experience, this family-run dealership is renowned for its honest service and expertise in outboard motors and boat sales. As authorized dealers for Honda, Tohatsu, CSB Huntsman, and MAC Boats, they offer a diverse range of vessels and services, earning trust across Southland for quality and reliability.
Key Services / What They Offer
They sell new and used boats, including aluminium and fibreglass models like CSB Huntsman and MAC Boats, ideal for fishing and recreation. They specialize in Honda and Tohatsu outboards, offering installations, servicing, and repairs. Services include marine financing, trade-ins, and a workshop for diagnostics, trailer maintenance, and accessory installations like fish finders and life jackets. They also stock marine gear, ensuring boats are fully equipped for Southland’s coastal conditions.
Who It’s For
Perfect for Invercargill anglers targeting blue cod in the Foveaux Strait, families seeking reliable recreational boats, and those needing expert outboard servicing or financing options.
What to Expect
Expect a welcoming, no-pressure experience at their Mersey Street showroom, where staff discuss your boating goals, from offshore fishing to lake cruising. They offer test drives and transparent pricing, with used boats thoroughly inspected for quality. New vessels are fitted with custom electronics or bait stations as needed. Their workshop uses advanced diagnostics for quick repairs, and delivery within Invercargill is seamless. Staff provide maintenance tips for Southland’s salty, windy waters, ensuring your boat’s longevity.
Standout Features
- Authorized Honda and Tohatsu outboard dealer
- Diverse range of CSB Huntsman and MAC Boats
- Expert workshop for servicing and repairs
- Nearly 30 years of local marine expertise
Customer Feedback
Clients praise their service. One says, “Steve Gooding set me up with a MAC Boat for Bluff fishing—runs like a dream!” Another notes, “Their team fixed my Honda outboard fast; honest and reliable.”
Why Choose Them?
Steve Gooding Marine’s extensive experience, quality boats, and trusted outboard services make them a top choice for Invercargill boaters seeking reliability and local expertise.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: goodingmarine.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. Kiwi Kraft Boats
About the Business
Kiwi Kraft Boats, based in Invercargill since 1989, is a leading aluminium boat manufacturer crafting vessels known for their durability and performance in New Zealand’s tough conditions. Located on Bond Street, this family-owned business specializes in pontoon-style boats, offering custom builds tailored for Southland’s coastal and lake waters. Their reputation for quality craftsmanship and seaworthiness makes them a favorite among serious anglers and recreational boaters.
Key Services / What They Offer
They build custom aluminium boats, including models like the 550HT and 620HT, designed for fishing, diving, and family use. Services include bespoke design, outboard installations (partnering with brands like Yamaha), and after-sales servicing. They offer repairs, refits, and upgrades like rod holders or GPS systems. Financing is available through local partners, and they provide trailers and marine accessories to complete your boating setup.
Who It’s For
Ideal for Invercargill fishermen targeting game fish, families wanting safe, stable boats, and those seeking custom vessels built for Southland’s rugged seas.
What to Expect
Expect a collaborative process starting with a design consultation to tailor your boat’s layout, considering Southland’s strong winds and currents. Using precision welding and CAD, their craftsmen build pontoon boats with superior stability. Delivery includes a detailed handover, with ongoing support from their workshop. Build times range from 3-6 months, and their team coordinates delivery within Invercargill, sharing tips for maintaining aluminium hulls in coastal environments.
Standout Features
- Custom aluminium pontoon boats for stability
- Over 35 years of manufacturing expertise
- Tailored designs for Southland’s conditions
- Comprehensive after-sales servicing
Customer Feedback
Clients love the craftsmanship. One says, “My Kiwi Kraft 620HT is perfect for Foveaux Strait—tough and stable!” Another notes, “Their team customized my boat for diving; the build quality is exceptional.”
Why Choose Them?
Kiwi Kraft Boats’ custom-built, high-quality vessels and deep Southland roots ensure a durable, tailored boating solution for Invercargill’s waters.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: kiwikraft.com
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. Outback Boats
About the Business
Outback Boats, founded in Invercargill in 2005, is a boutique boat builder specializing in aluminium jet boats and recreational vessels. Located on Eye Street, their small, passionate team crafts boats with polyurethane intakes for enhanced performance in Southland’s rivers and coastal waters. Known for their innovative designs and quality materials, Outback Boats has built a strong reputation for durability and customer-focused service.
Key Services / What They Offer
They build custom aluminium boats, including jet boats and hardtop models like the Outback 5.5m, suited for fishing, jet boating, and family outings. Services include bespoke design, outboard or jet engine installations (often Yamaha), and servicing for their boats. They offer repairs, upgrades like live bait tanks, and marine accessories such as life jackets. Financing is available, and they provide trailers tailored to Southland’s boat ramps.
Who It’s For
Suited for Invercargill adventurers seeking jet boats for river exploration, anglers fishing coastal waters, and families wanting custom, safe vessels.
What to Expect
Expect a hands-on experience with a design consultation to customize your boat for Southland’s conditions, like the Oreti River or Bluff’s swells. Their team uses high-grade aluminium and polyurethane intakes for durability and performance. Delivery includes a thorough walkthrough, and their workshop supports repairs and maintenance. Build times are typically 4-6 months, with delivery coordinated in Invercargill and advice on caring for jet boats in salty environments.
Standout Features
- Custom aluminium jet boats with polyurethane intakes
- Innovative designs for Southland’s waters
- High-quality, locally crafted materials
- Personalized after-sales support
Customer Feedback
Clients value the quality. One says, “Outback’s jet boat handles the Oreti like a dream—built to last!” Another notes, “Their team added a bait tank to my boat; service was top-notch.”
Why Choose Them?
Outback Boats’ innovative jet boats, custom craftsmanship, and focus on Southland’s boating needs make them a standout for durable, high-performance vessels in Invercargill.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: outbackboats.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Set Sail with Invercargill’s Best Boat Dealers
Choosing the best boat dealers in Invercargill ensures your vessel is ready for Southland’s coastal and river adventures, from fishing to jet boating. Steve Gooding Marine, Kiwi Kraft Boats, and Outback Boats offer unmatched expertise, quality boats, and personalized service, tailored to the region’s rugged waters. Their deep connection to Invercargill’s boating culture guarantees a seamless, reliable experience.
Don’t wait to explore Southland’s stunning waterways. Contact one of these top Invercargill boat dealers today to browse their range, arrange a test drive, or discuss custom builds. With their skill and passion, you’ll be navigating the Foveaux Strait or Oreti River in your dream boat in no time!
Helpful Information About Invercargill Boat Dealers
Invercargill, located at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is a haven for boating enthusiasts thanks to its proximity to Bluff, the Foveaux Strait, and Lake Te Anau. Whether you’re into fishing, diving, or cruising, local boat dealers in Invercargill cater to a wide range of marine interests with both new and used vessels. Many dealerships specialize in aluminium and fibreglass boats designed for the unique coastal and river conditions of Southland. Invercargill’s marine community values quality craftsmanship, customer service, and extensive product knowledge when selecting the right boat or service provider.
Boat dealers located in and around neighborhoods like Appleby, Newfield, and West Invercargill often offer additional services such as custom builds, financing, and marine servicing. These businesses frequently work with trusted engine brands and provide accessories tailored to local needs—from bait tanks for sea fishing near Bluff to jet propulsion systems ideal for inland rivers like the Oreti. Choosing a reliable and experienced dealer ensures your vessel meets regional maritime demands while offering lasting value. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a new boat buyer, local expertise goes a long way in making the right investment.
Choosing the Right Boat Dealer in Invercargill
- Look for boat dealers with experience in Southland’s waters—they’ll understand the demands of places like Foveaux Strait and the Oreti River.
- Check if the dealership offers both new and used boats, as well as customization options to suit your lifestyle, such as fishing, diving, or family trips.
- Ensure they are authorized dealers for reputable engine brands like Yamaha, Honda, or Tohatsu for better servicing and warranty support.
- Review their after-sales service offerings, including maintenance, repairs, and availability of marine accessories.
- Read local customer reviews or ask for referrals from other Invercargill boat owners to gauge reliability and satisfaction levels.
- Consider financing options and trade-in services if you’re upgrading or purchasing your first vessel in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invercargill Boat Dealers
What types of boats are most popular in Invercargill?
Given the coastal and river-based geography of the region, aluminium fishing boats, jet boats, and family-friendly hardtops are among the most popular styles. These vessels are well-suited for the rugged sea conditions around Bluff and the inland waterways like the Oreti River.
Do Invercargill boat dealers offer custom boat builds?
Yes, many dealerships in the Invercargill area provide custom build options tailored to the unique marine conditions of Southland. These can include custom layouts, specialized fishing features, and reinforced hulls for safety and performance.
Can I get my boat serviced or repaired locally?
Absolutely. Most reputable boat dealers in Invercargill offer comprehensive servicing, outboard motor repairs, and boat trailer maintenance. Workshops are often equipped with diagnostic tools to service both newer and older models.
Do local dealers provide financing for boats?
Yes, many dealers partner with local lenders to offer flexible marine financing plans. Whether you’re buying a new or used boat, financing can often be arranged directly through the dealership.
Is it possible to get boating accessories and equipment in Invercargill?
Most boat dealers in Invercargill stock a wide range of accessories, including GPS systems, life jackets, fish finders, rod holders, and engine parts. These stores make it easy to fully outfit your boat for the Southland lifestyle before heading out on the water.