Happy new member with a new Hobie story

I bought a used Mirage Outback about 2 years ago and have loved the boat. It was in rough but decent shape when I got it. I used it at least once a week in Oceanside Harbor. The boat is a '05. I had been noticing an increasing amount of leakage in the hull and upon inspection (and research on this forum) I began to suspect the forward part of the drivewell seat (where the forward drive support sits). I did a leak test and found a crack in the drivewell.

I took the boat into the local dealer Nathan of OEX in Oceanside. He inspects the area around the inside of the drivewell and realizes that it had a leaking repair apparently done by previous owner (or their dealer). He took pictures and contacted Hobie for a warranty claim.

I was not counting on much since I was not the original owner. Within two days Nathan called and said he had a brand new hull waiting for me. I raced up to his shop before he had a chance to change his mind. The new hull was still in bubble wrap when I got there. Nathan showed me all the new features compared to my old boat. Stow away rudder, new hatches, etc.

I miss my old boat but, needless to say, I am super happy with the way this was resolved. I have a brand new boat and great feeling of customer support from Hobie and OEX (and I have never even bought anything there...but I promise I will now).

My first surfboard was a Hobie in '66. I had Hobie skateboards as a kid. I sailed HobieHawk RC gliders as a teenager. I've sailed Hobie 14 and 16 cats. I still ride a Hobie surfboard (Phil Edwards Model) and I'm now going on my second Hobie Kayak.

Very satisfied Hobie rider for life,
Ben Redman

Kudos to Nathan, OEX Oceanside, and Hobie.

Is the new hull an '08 or '09? Either way you did good as well as Nathan, OEX Oceanside, and Hobie.

_________________
Tim
'09 Adventure, Golden Papaya, Turbo Fins, Large Sailing Rudder, Turquoise Sail, Grey Haired Kayaker, ...

Yes, the new hull is an '09.

At first, I missed my old boat. It was like a comfortable old pair of shoes (that I had to drain water out of each time I wore them). I got over that quickly. Now, I'm really enjoying the new boat and very happy with the support from OEX and Hobie. Thanks again!