Columbia Fiberglass recalls
Columbia Fiberglass boats have 1 recall campaign on record across 18 reported units. Below is every campaign, what it covers, and how to confirm a specific hull was fixed before you buy.
Columbia Fiberglass has one recorded USCG recall from 1980 affecting 18 units of the 12 foot Lapstrake model for a level flotation deficiency. The limited scope (a single model year run from over four decades ago) suggests this builder does not have a pattern of systemic safety defects. For buyers evaluating a used Columbia Fiberglass boat today, the primary concern is verifying whether a specific hull was part of that small 1980 campaign and if so, whether the flotation remedy was completed.
All Columbia Fiberglass recalls
- ⚠ Recall
800089S4/4/1980LEVEL FLOTATION
What this means before you buy →
What to check before you buy a used Columbia Fiberglass
- Decode the HIN on any Columbia Fiberglass boat you are considering to confirm the manufacture year and model designation.
- If evaluating a 12 foot Lapstrake built in 1980, request documentation that recall 800089S was remedied or have a surveyor verify the flotation meets current standards.
- Run a USCG recall search by HIN before purchase to confirm no open campaigns exist for that specific hull.
- Regardless of recall status, have a marine surveyor inspect all flotation foam and hull integrity on any boat over 30 years old.
Frequently asked questions
Does Columbia Fiberglass have any boat recalls?
Yes, Columbia Fiberglass has one USCG recall from April 1980 covering 18 units of the 12 foot Lapstrake model for inadequate level flotation. No other recalls are on record.
Which Columbia Fiberglass models were recalled?
Only the 12 foot Lapstrake model was subject to the 1980 flotation recall (campaign 800089S). Other Columbia Fiberglass models have no recorded USCG recall campaigns.
What was the flotation issue in the 1980 Columbia Fiberglass recall?
The recall addressed level flotation deficiency, meaning the boat did not meet Coast Guard requirements for remaining upright and supporting occupants when swamped. The remedy typically involved adding or reconfiguring flotation foam.
Should I avoid buying a Columbia Fiberglass boat because of the recall?
No. The single recall from 1980 affected only 18 boats of one model. If you are buying a different model or a Lapstrake where the remedy was completed, the recall history does not indicate elevated risk compared to other builders of that era.