To learn more about Whaly Boats contact sales rep closest to you
or send us an email: Whalyboatsusa.com
Whaly Boats USA
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: I just received my new Whaly Boat, what should I do first?
A: Welcome to the growing Whaly family. Before you launch your boat please review the following:
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Before you launch your boat make sure drain plugs are installed and secure.
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Models: 210, 270, 310, 370 & 435 have two plugs on the backside of the boat:
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Plug #1: The red & black snap-in plug drains the floor or deck of the boat. This one is usually NOT installed. when boat is delivered. It must be inserted into hole located on the center of the outside wall of the transom. It is screwed in from the inside of the boats. If you trailer the boat, it can be inserted from the outside.
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Plug #2: The second plug, shown above on the right, is all black, flattened, with an "O": ring. It has a cross-hatch on the head. This one should already be installed in your boat. (iI is located on the outside wall of the back of the boat, above the snap-in plug. This hole drains the inner cavity of the hull of the boat. To remove, (do NOT use a screwdriver as it will damage or strip the top of the plug). A metal bracket (as shown above) .
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Models 400, 455 & 500: Have one black plug shown above on the right, is all black, flattened, with an "O": ring. It has a cross-hatch on the head. This one should already be installed in your boat. (iI is located on the outside wall of the back of the boat, above the snap-in plug. This hole drains the inner cavity of the hull of the boat. To remove, (DO NOT use a screwdriver as it will damage or strip the top of the plug). A metal bracket (as shown above).
2. Confirm your boat has the USCG required Capacity Sticker (the yellow/white/chrome sticker) clearly visible. If your boat doesn’t have one reach out to: Sales@whalyboatsusa.com.
3. Be certain your boat contains the required safety equipment according to your state laws.
4. Enjoy your Whaly Boat! - Share your fun on Whaly Boats USA instagram, using the hashtag #whalyinthewild.
WHY WHALY?
Q: What makes Whaly boats different from other boat manufacturers?
A: We can tell you why, but instead here’s what our customers are saying:
“First maintenance free boat we’ve owned!”
"Better than a RIB - no patch kit needed"
“We don’t have to worry about the boat deflating (we’re replacing our dinghy).”
“I love that scratches and dents can be easily repaired like new.”
“I was impressed with how the boat handled in choppy waters!”
Need more reasons?
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Incredibly sturdy, molded in one piece
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Made from high density plastic (Polyethylene) that is 100% recyclable
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Stability is the boat’s main feature: A sleek design combined with comfort
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Low-maintenance (needs only soap and water or an occasional high-pressure cleaner)
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Fun colors which are color-fast and UV-stabilized
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Spacious interiors
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USCG-certified
Q: What are the advantages of a HDPE Polyethylene Boat?
A: Whaly boats were created by enthusiasts with a passion for life on the water and a desire to “build a better boat.” High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) was chosen as the material for many reasons, including:
WEATHER HARDY
The best part about Whaly boats is the durability of the high-density polyethylene which makes them resistant to cold and hot weather and are UV stabilized...designed to be left alone outside!
MORE DURABLE THAN ALUMINUM, FIBERGLASS OR INFLATABLE BOATS
Materials matter! The standard materials from which other boats are made are simply not as durable in their composition. Because PE is less rigid than other materials, there is some “flex” and “give” which means your Whaly boat is extremely impact-resistant and will hold up over time.
UNBELIEVABLY INDESTRUCTIBLE
Your boat and your investment are protected. No one wants to have to deal with damage, or worse, destruction of the vessel used for personal pleasure or for professional pursuits! Watch our video in which there are several different methods used to demonstrate how Whaly boats made with PE can withstand just about any scenario that would destroy other boats.
EXCEPTIONAL BUOYANCY AND PERFORMANCE
A boat that doesn’t float is called an anchor, right? Boats constructed using other materials leave the potential for gaps or weak spots where water can come onboard. Because PE is a compound in bead or powder form that is poured into a closed mold, then heated and cooled, there are less pathways for water to find its way in. Whaly boats, even those models with articulating bows and reinforced hulls, provide confidence that you’ll stay afloat.
PUNCTURE PROOF AND UNSINKABLE
PE to the rescue! When taking on life’s most important emergency tasks, time is of the essence yet variable factors including those underneath the water’s surface can quickly turn the tide and put a rescue mission in jeopardy. PE is puncture-proof, which means your Whaly boat is unsinkable in moments when life depends on it.
CAN BE BEACHED ON ROCKS OR CONCRETE
No more “amateur hour” mishaps. How many times have you seen a beached or deflated vacation rental boat that had run aground or had gotten stuck as a result of a less-experienced boater? The strength and durability of PE allows it to remain undamaged and can be launched from even the most abrasive and challenging surfaces. Whaly boats are the way to navigate your business or personal watercraft through even rocky circumstances.
NO ANTIFOULING NECESSARY
Enjoy the savings. Enjoy the time you save from cleaning. No need to spend time or money on expensive hull care and repair. If the boatIf boat is used regularly, barnacles have a tough time attaching to polyethylene, so you can simply enjoy your Whaly more.
NO POLISHING OR WAXING NEEDED
PE doesn’t have the high-gloss finish of painted boats, but it does come in a wide array of colors that will look as beautiful with regular use as it does the day it is delivered. Whaly boats require no polishing or waxing.
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AND 100% RECYCLABLE
PE is an ethically responsible material that is environmentally friendly and, unlike fiberglass, is 100% recyclable.
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD CAPACITY STICKERS
Q: Why are there two capacities plates/stickers on my boat?
A: Whaly Boats models (excluding 210 model) are certified by the US Coast Guard to meet all applicable essential safety requirements. You must follow United States Coast Guard Capacities as listed on your boat.
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The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has different safety standards for boats than the European Union. This means that the capacity of a boat, as determined by the USCG, may be different from the capacity as determined by European standards.
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The USCG's safety standards are more stringent than European standards. This is because the USCG takes into account a wider range of factors when determining the capacity of a boat, including the weight of the boat, the weight of the passengers, the weight of the gear, and the sea conditions.
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As a result, it is important to always follow the USCG's capacity limits, even if the boat was manufactured in Europe or if the capacity information on the boat is in European units. Exceeding the USCG's capacity limits could put you and your passengers at risk.
PERFORMANCE
Q: I’m having trouble getting my Whaly Boat to plane?
A: There are many factors that can impact how your boat planes, including but not limited to total weight, weight distribution, water conditions, motor performance, tilt of motor, cavitation plate alignment, prop diameter, pitch, and condition. Some Whaly owners report improvements by:
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Shifting weight forward
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Using a smaller pitch prop
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Adding a Hydrofoil
Q. How much weight can the opening bow on the 500 and 455 models handle?
A: They have been tested to accommodate up to 400lbs
Q: I’ve seen pictures with a stainless-steel hoop around the engine. What is this?
A: This is called a turbo swing. It is used for towing skiers, wake boarders, other boats, etc. It also protects the engine when backing up or when the boat is in a Marina. Turbo swings can be found at most full scale marine retail shops.
MAINTENANCE
Q: What regular maintenance is required on a Whaly Boat?
A: A light scrub or occasional power-wash is generally all that’s required to keep your Whaly Boat looking like new.
Q: Will barnacles adhere to HDPE (polyethylene)?
If the Whaly sits in the water, unused for an extended length of the time, yes, barnacles will gather. However, unlike fiberglass and aluminum, removing them from a Whaly is much easier - They scrap off easily with stiff brush. Then power wash.
Polyethylene boats used frequently rarely require bottom paint. A boat that sits for long periods of time may require bottom treatment. Only use an antifouling primer that is compatible with Polyethylene. Whaly dealers in UK and Ireland recommend:
1. Clean and abrade the hull with 80 grit sandpaper.
2. Apply antifouling primer that will adhere to Polyethylene.
3. Allow to dry properly between coats.
4. Apply 2nd coat of antifouling.
Q: Can minor surface scratches be removed from polyethylene?
A: Yes, minor damage to the high-quality polyethylene can be removed or smoothed by heat gun or propane torch. Polyethylene can also be heat welded. Heat welding should only be attempted by experts, as excess heat could compromise the Whaly boat’s double-walled construction.
Q: How do I know if my motor is positioned properly?
A: The cavitation plate (fin directly above propeller) lines up directly with the bottom of the hull. The engine should be centered on the transom.
Q. What is the white plug inside my boat for? How do I remove it?
A: The 2.5” white plug(s) inside your Whaly are venting plugs. They allow hot air to escape as the boat cools during the manufacturing process. These plugs are water tight and should not need to be removed.
Q: Where should I mount a center console?
A: There are many options. Mounting a console and bench seat further forward is preferred by some to help with weight distribution.
Q: What’s the best method to secure an anchor?
A: Run the anchor line through the bow eye and secure the anchor line to one of the forward fairleads that the black safety line runs through. Wrap the anchor line a couple times around the fairlead underneath the black safety line. Any of the fairleads that the black safety line runs through are strong enough to pick up or hold the boat.
Q: Can I install a planer fin/hydrofoil?
A: Yes. Many people do and like them.
Snap-in Plugs used only on Whaly models: 210, 270, 310, 370 & 435s
Black flat plug with "O" ring used on all Whaly models
Q: Will my Whaly fade in color as a result of the sun?
A: Whaly Boats are color-fast and UV-stabilized. Whaly owners in the Caribbean report their boats remain true to their original color after >10 years of constant exposure to the tropical sun.
Q: Can I drill into my Whaly Boat to mount accessories?
A: Yes, but we recommend contacting an authorized Whaly dealer or Whaly Boats USA to discuss your needs. We recommend Sudbury elastomeric marine sealant to seal any openings.
Q: What is the best way to lift my Whaly Tender?
A: D-Shackles added to the fair-leads are designed specifically for this purpose. Any Whaly can be lifted by any of the fair-leads. People usually install four wide D-shackles at each corner of the boat. You can also use soft shackles around the fair-leads under the black safety rope.
Q: Can I use Whaly boats for scuba diving?
A: Whaly is a great choice for divers, especially the larger models (500s & 455) with the drop-down bow, which acts as a swimming platform. This unique Whaly feature makes it easy-on and easy-off the boat, even while in the water and in full gear. Plus, the added size of the 500s & 455 models accommodates tanks, gear, and divers.
Q: Can the smaller boats be used in shallow water? For fishing and push poling?
A: Absolutely! All Whaly boats are great for shallow water. Naturally push-poling is a common practice. Even the larger models (455 & 500) which draw only 10”.
Q: Popular applications Whaly boat usage?
A: Whaly boats have become the boat of choice as rescue boats for professional emergency entities (EMT, Fire, Search & Rescue) SCUBA, sailing schools, fishing, as workboats and many other uses. All Whaly models are also suitable for recreational use. Whether you are looking for a leak-proof tender or a rugged Whaly for your boat hire business, Whaly offers many options. The Whaly design emphasizes strength, stability, and maintenance-free reliability. So, no matter your mission, you can focus your time where it matters most.
Whaly boats are suitable for:
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Recreational boating
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Work boats
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Escorts boats for water sports schools
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Boat hire companies
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Rescue operations
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Angling and sport fishing
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Tenders
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Electric sailing
Q: What is the best way to clean a Whaly Boat?
A: Using a power washer is the easiest and most effective way to clean your boat quickly.
Q: Can I paint my hull number on my boat?
A: Yes, you can paint on a Whaly Boat, just ensure the paint is formulated to adhere to Polyethylene (Krylon a common choice). No need to sand prior, but do clean the area to be painted with acetone or rubbing alcohol, and allow it to dry thoroughly prior to painting.
For displaying registration numbers, we recommend stenciling rather than painting. High Tac 3M (ScotchCal) stencil tape can be purchased at most Fast Sign or Quick Print shops (~$50 for a strip long enough to print a boat registration number, but prices may vary). This stencil is very high quality and has yielded excellent results over many years when adhered properly. Clean area with acetone or rubbing alcohol prior to adhering stickers and follow instructions on stencil material.
Q: Is there a recommendation for Oars?
A: Oars should be placed between 16-18" behind where the rower will sit.
Whaly Boats USA sells plastic oar Locks for the 210-270 and metal oar locks for the 310-435R. Metal oar locks are recommended.
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