I have owned a lot of boats, mostly Stratos. And I was always impressed with any dealings I had with the factory and customer service. From the first time I toured their plant with an Internet group in 2001, they served us lunch, gave us goody-bags, and I even sat and talked with Gary in his office (actually told him I wanted his job...). They were involved with a Chidren's Miracle Network fishing tournament that the employer I was with at the time put on, and even had a couple of folks come down and fish it. I loved owning Stratos boats.
Well, I was disappointed when the friends I had at Stratos walked away, but I knew they would be back. When they all formed Phoenix Boats, I kept a close eye on things. I left Stratos and began searching for another boat about a year ago as a regular buyer instead of a team guy of a dealership. I went looking for the best value for me this time. Nothing was off limits. I looked at everything from Ranger to Champion, Nitro to Skeeter. I finally went with my good friend Kenneth to tour the Phoenix plant and to see some old friends. Jeff carried us to the lake with a 721 so I could see for myself everything I had just been 'told' up to this point. I was blown away by the boat. Needless to say I picked up a 721.I bought my boat from a non-current Phoenix dealer also. It was their last boat in inventory. So, Phoenix the company itself, really didn't make any direct cash from me buying this boat. It had already been bought and paid for by the dealer. But I have been treated like I own the place.
I had a question about something and contacted the factory. Jeff turned me over to Mark Plumley. They asked if I could get the boat to them for them to look over and check out (I have one of the first boats). I carried it up on a Saturday and someone actually came and met me at the plant to unlock the gate for me. Mark has been in constant contact with me the entire time. They have done things that I didn't ask for, and went above and beyond what I expected. One of my little birds was peeling up on one of my seats. I had glued it back down to where it really wasn't noticeable. They put another seat in it to replace it. When they noticed the Phoenix wording on the back of the new seat didn't match the driver's seat. So, what have they done? Ordered two new seats.Started to see if I could get a dual console tossed in it by accident, but figured I didn't need to press my luck.
I know folks talk about other companies and how great their CS is, how long they've been in business, etc., etc. I can tell you they are not any better than Phoenix boats at taking care of the customer and making sure you are happy. Maybe they've been around longer, but no one will treat you better.
My boat is ready now, better than ever. Can't wait to bring her back home. A big thumbs up to Phoenix Boats, and especially to Mark Plumley.
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