Carolina Classic

Mac Privott, owner of Carolina Classic Boats, grew up running North Carolina's dicey inlets and knows firsthand what it takes to build a solid offshore fishing boat.

"We glass everything together from the keel up," he says. "Every time you step on her, you'll notice there's no flex — no creakin' and crackin'."

Privott began building boats in 1975 and has more than 2,000 hulls to his credit. The company presently builds boats from 25 to 35 feet, and each one focuses on the needs of fishermen. The cockpits are engineered to run several lines, with no tripping over engine boxes or cleats, but the most recognized — and appreciated — Carolina Classic feature is the big, wide bow that slices the seas and keeps you dry. "We build to fish offshore, and that means build them tough," Privott says. "A Carolina Classic will take more than any captain should ever ask of it."

The Carolina Classic team is heavily involved in the design and layout of the topsides but leaves the hull design up to veteran naval architect Lou Codega for the boat's deep-V hull. All the building takes place at the company's North Carolina facility.

At a Glance: -Builds 90 to 100 boats a year -Glasses every piece together for added strength -More than 2,000 hulls since 1975

Carolina Classic stands behind its product and selects the best component parts available, using only stainless and noncorrosive materials. Everything on the boat is watertight, making upkeep painless. The decks feature molded-in, diamond nonskid surfaces that resist ground-in dirt while providing sure footing. A unique bilge system keeps the engine compartment powder dry, so the mechanical and hydraulic systems stay clean and free of salt.

The company embraces new technology and expects to see more changes in electronics and engine refinements. "With the new electronic engine controls that are coming on board, I see engines that run more economically, quietly and dependably," Privott says.

In the quest for more speed, the company expects to use more powerful engines down the road. But to compensate for more power, the hulls must become even tougher. "The faster we go, the stronger the hull needs to be," says Privott. "As we get faster, we look for ways to make them stronger, not lighter. That means aesthetics mean a lot, but the first objective has to be strength."

For more information, contact Carolina Classic Boats of Edenton, North Carolina, at 252-482-3699, or visit www.carolinaclassicboats.com.

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