Boat Owner Documents Extensive Issues with Sea Pro 259 DLX, Considers Legal Action
Industry Watch | October 2025
A boat owner has published a detailed account of persistent mechanical and safety issues with their 2021 Sea Pro Boats 259 DLX, documenting over two years of failures that have left the vessel non-operational despite multiple repair attempts.
The Documented Issues
According to the owner’s published review, the problems began shortly after purchasing the boat new from Coastal Marine in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The documented issues include:
- Complete steering system failure while 3 miles offshore, requiring emergency assistance
- Throttle controls operating in reverse (forward engaging reverse, reverse engaging forward)
- Electrical system failures, including helm electronics that won’t power on
- Bilge pump malfunction causing water intrusion
- Windshield detaching at high speed
- Severe cavitation issues requiring lower unit replacement
- Boat listing to port, affecting stability
Manufacturer and Dealer Response
The owner reports that Sea Pro Manufacturing picked up the vessel in September 2025 for repairs at their facility. After approximately one month, a Sea Pro representative allegedly claimed the boat was “fixed” following their sea trial. However, upon return, the boat exhibited new problems including the reversed throttle controls.
According to the documentation, attempts to contact Sea Pro directly have gone unanswered, and both the manufacturer and dealer have declined buyback requests despite the documented issues.
Reports from Other Owners
The review indicates that since publishing their experience, the owner has received correspondence from other Sea Pro owners reporting similar issues. One quoted Long Island owner reported wire harness problems within the first month of ownership and an 11-month wait for replacement parts.
Multiple owners allegedly report their boats have similar defects, with some stating they cannot ethically sell their vessels to other buyers due to the persistent problems.
Potential Legal Action
As of October 2025, the owner states they have engaged a maritime law firm and are evaluating the possibility of organizing a class action lawsuit. They are also reportedly expanding their approach to include component manufacturers such as Simrad (electronics) and Suzuki Marine (outboards) in their legal action.
Industry Context
Sea Pro Manufacturing, based in Whitmire, South Carolina, is owned by Jimmy Hancock and Preston Wrenn. The company produces various boat models including bay boats, center consoles, and offshore vessels. The 259 DLX model in question was built in 2021, during the pandemic period when many manufacturers faced supply chain and workforce challenges.
The owner suggests these quality control issues may be related to COVID-era manufacturing challenges, though Sea Pro has not publicly acknowledged any systemic problems with their 2021 production.
Financial Implications
The owner reports spending “tens of thousands of dollars” on repairs not covered by warranty, in addition to the original purchase price. They also cite lost income from inability to use the vessel and complete loss of resale value, as they state the boat is effectively unsellable in its current condition.
Current Status
According to the latest update from October 20, 2025:
- The boat remains non-operational
- Electrical issues continue without resolution
- Legal proceedings are being pursued
- The owner is documenting cases from other affected owners
The owner has established contact at [email protected] for other Sea Pro owners experiencing similar issues.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about quality control and customer service in the recreational boating industry. While this represents one owner’s documented experience, the reported correspondence from other owners suggests these issues may extend beyond an isolated incident.
Prospective boat buyers may want to research thoroughly and seek multiple opinions before making purchases, particularly for models from the 2021 production period. Current Sea Pro owners experiencing similar issues may want to document their problems thoroughly and consider their options for resolution.
Note: This article summarizes publicly documented claims made by a boat owner about their experience. The manufacturer’s position on these specific claims has not been independently verified. Readers should conduct their own research and due diligence when considering any boat purchase.