I spent two hours visiting the Sonic plant yesterday. Most of the time was spent with Joe Hulse, but I did have a good
conversation with the new GM.

Bottom line, I am encouraged to the point that I may put
a deposit on a new 31SS. They are currently rigging a 31SS
for the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. I want to see the completed rigging. I also want to see how the new boat
handles in the ocean with the 496 HO.

Here are some key points of the new build process:

1. The hull is built with the infusion process using
Baltec end cut balsa core. This looks like a good process,
and it should be stronger than the old method.
2. The cabin is being layed up the old way.
3. It looks line the deck is being layed up the old way,
but I am not sure of this.
4. The arch is being redesigned. They are going to
e-mail me a cad drawing on this.

I am pleased at the progress Sonic is making, and I
wish them well. I really want to buy a new 31SS.

Warren

hey warren
did you see my 358?
paul

Hi Paul,

I saw your 358. I didn't really go over it too much
because it was covered with plastic (not shrink wrap).
Beautiful paint job!

Warren

thanks warren

Hey why don't you buy my 04 31 diablo and I will get a 386. We can do a trade in to save me on the sales tax in Texas.

shewbart,

Thanks for the offer, but I really want to buy new.

When I worked my way through school I worked
every day for five years, and I like to reward myself
with a new toy every now and then.

Thanks,

Warren

Warren,

Where is the plant and who's the new GM?

Thanks

The plant is at the airport in Stuart, FL. Stuart is about 85 miles North of Ft lauderdale. See this link for all of the management particulars:

http://www.offshoreonly.com/forums/s...ad.phpt=110282

I'm thinking about ordering a new 42 with Merc 850 SCi's and #6 drives but the 1075's may be the way to go. I haven't made up my mind yet.

As I see it Sonic is at least six months away from
really starting production. First, there is the problem
of staffing up with people to build the three pieces.
Second, there is the problem of finding people who
can rig the boats. Third, there is the problem of capital.
You have to have enough money to build the boat with
no more than 20% deposit, and the balance on delivery.

I am hopeful that Sonic can solve these problems.
Right now, I am in a wait and see mode.
I wish Sonic well. I love their boats.

Warren