Brent Handy

Review of Cooper Boating

Several major boat systems seriously worn out beyo...

Several major boat systems seriously worn out beyond reason and/or totally unserviceable. Rode splice to chain worn down to less than 1/3 strands (see picture). Headsail furling line worn through sheath and into core. Bow roller seized and worn to axle pin. Electric windlass did not work for more than 10 seconds before blowing circuit breaker on every raise. Systems monitor panel not functional. No way to monitor fuel or water state. Essential safety gear not useable (man overboard marker was permanently lashed to stancheons!). Lifesling UV deterioration so bad it was literally disintegrating. Oven would not remain lit. Electrical systems intermittent (there is a light in the head that remains on, no matter what!). Ditching kit light beacon totally fallen apart with no batteries. No line for secondary anchor.
After providing a careful debrief to the dock manager, he assured me the owner / manager would be in touch to discuss the condition of the boat and my dissatisfaction. No call ever received.
Workers refuse to put me in contact with the manager or owner of the company to follow up on unsatisfactory boat condition after three attempts by me to contact them.
The boat (40 Beneteau Claire Elise) is offered for charter within 10% of the price of 90% of the rest of Cooper s fleet, but the condition was totally unacceptable.
Heavy wear and tear is expected on a charter boat, but I expect all systems to function, ESPECIALLY SAFETY RELATED GEAR.
Mostly because of the companies arrogance and refusal to discuss my dissatisfaction, I would never recommend Cooper Boating to a friend.