Bristol Boats recalls
Bristol Boats boats have 1 recall campaign on record across 1 reported units. Below is every campaign, what it covers, and how to confirm a specific hull was fixed before you buy.
Bristol Boats has one recorded USCG safety recall dating to June 2001, affecting a single 172 Bay Skiff unit for a level flotation issue. This minimal recall footprint suggests limited federal safety campaign activity across the brand's production history. Used buyers should still verify recall status by HIN, as even a resolved campaign can reveal build quality context.
All Bristol Boats recalls
- ⚠ Recall
981604S6/19/2001LEVEL FLOTATION
What this means before you buy →
What to check before you buy a used Bristol Boats
- Pull the HIN from any Bristol Boats listing and cross reference it against USCG recall 981604S if the boat is a 172 Bay Skiff built around 2001
- Request documentation from the seller proving the level flotation remedy was completed if the recall applies
- Have a surveyor inspect flotation foam condition and structural integrity during prepurchase survey regardless of recall status
- Verify the boat was built by the original Bristol Boats company and not a later unrelated entity using the name, as builder identity affects parts support and resale value
Frequently asked questions
How many Bristol Boats recalls have been issued?
Bristol Boats has one USCG safety recall on record, campaign 981604S from June 2001, affecting a single 172 Bay Skiff for a level flotation defect.
What was the Bristol Boats 172 Bay Skiff recall about?
The recall addressed a level flotation issue, meaning the foam or flotation chambers did not meet Coast Guard requirements to keep the boat afloat if swamped. Only one unit was affected.
Should I avoid buying a Bristol Boats because of recalls?
One recall affecting a single unit over two decades ago does not indicate a systemic safety problem. Verify the specific boat's HIN and survey results rather than avoiding the brand outright.
How do I check if my Bristol Boats has an open recall?
Cross reference your hull identification number against USCG recall 981604S if you own a 172 Bay Skiff. Contact the selling dealer or a surveyor to confirm remedy completion or current flotation compliance.