When you think about reliable boat building in British Columbia, daigle welding and marine stands out as a top choice. This company has built a strong name for itself by creating custom aluminum vessels that last. People in the marine world trust them for their skill and focus on quality. In this article, you will learn all about their story, what they offer, and why their boats fit so many needs.
The Beginnings of a Marine Powerhouse
Steve Daigle started his path in the marine field back in 1976. He worked in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, where he gained hands-on skills in boat building, design, and fabrication. These early years taught him the basics of working with metal and understanding sea conditions. By 1985, Steve saw a chance to grow. He moved to Campbell River, a spot known for its coastal access and marine activity. There, he founded daigle welding and marine Ltd. This move let him focus on what he did best: making strong, custom boats.
At first, the company was small. Steve and a few workers built boats one at a time. They used aluminum because it handles rough waters well. Over time, the team grew. They added more tools and space to handle bigger jobs. Campbell River’s location helped too. It’s close to the ocean, making tests and launches easy. Today, the shop at 2177 Island Highway buzzes with activity. Welders shape metal, designers plan layouts, and testers check every detail.
The company’s growth shows in its numbers. From a handful of boats in the early days, they now have over 100 vessels to their credit. Each one tells a story of care and skill. Steve’s vision was simple: build boats that people can count on. That idea still drives the team.
Daigle Welding and Marine Services: What They Offer
Daigle welding and marine provides a range of services to meet different needs. They focus on custom work, so no two projects look the same. Here are the main areas they cover:
- Custom Boat Design: They start with your ideas. Designers use software to create plans. You pick the size, shape, and features. This ensures the boat fits your exact use, like fishing or patrolling.
- Aluminum Welding and Fabrication: Their welders are experts. They join metal pieces to make strong hulls. This service also fixes older boats. If your vessel needs repairs, they handle it fast.
- Marine Electronics Installation: They team up with brands like Raymarine. This means adding radars, GPS, and other tech. It keeps boats safe and modern.
- Boat Sales and Pre-Owned Options: They sell new EagleCraft models. They also offer used boats that they check and fix. This gives buyers choices at different prices.
- Maintenance and Upgrades: Boats need care to stay good. They offer checks, paints, and updates. This keeps your investment running smooth.
These services make daigle welding and marine a one-stop shop. Customers come back because the work is reliable. For example, a local fishing crew might need a tougher hull. The team listens, plans, and builds it right.
Exploring the EagleCraft Brand
EagleCraft is the brand name for boats from daigle welding and marine. It started as a way to show their quality. Now, it’s known across Canada for tough, custom vessels. The brand covers many types:
- Recreational Craft: These are for fun on the water. They have comfy seats, storage for gear, and smooth rides. Perfect for family trips or weekend fishing.
- Commercial Vessels: Built for work. Think water taxis or crew boats. They carry people or goods safely. Features like strong engines and big decks help.
- Landing Craft: Good for shallow spots. They load and unload easy. Used for freight or research in remote areas.
- Patrol and Research Boats: Made for official use. They have tech for monitoring waters. Speed and strength are key here.
Each EagleCraft boat uses high-grade aluminum. This material resists rust and dents. The designs follow Transport Canada rules, so they’re safe. Customers can add things like heated cabins or special lighting. This customization sets EagleCraft apart.
Visit the EagleCraft website to see models and start building yours.
Benefits of Aluminum Boats from Daigle Welding and Marine
Choosing aluminum boats brings many pluses. Daigle welding and marine knows this and uses it in every build. Here’s why aluminum wins:
- Durability: Aluminum handles hits well. It doesn’t crack like some materials. This means less fixes over time.
- Lightweight Design: Lighter boats use less fuel. They tow easy too. For owners, this saves money and effort.
- Corrosion Resistance: Salt water can harm boats. Aluminum fights rust better than steel. With proper care, it lasts decades.
- Customization Ease: Aluminum shapes easy. Welders can add or change parts without big costs. This lets you update as needs change.
- Low Maintenance: No need for heavy paints or seals. Simple washes keep it clean. This frees up time for boating.
- Fuel Efficiency: Less weight means better speed with same power. Good for long trips or work runs.
- Environmental Perks: Aluminum recycles well. Building with it cuts waste. It’s a green choice for modern boaters.
Studies show aluminum boats can last 30 years or more with care. In rough BC waters, this strength matters. Daigle welding and marine picks the best grades for their work. They test hulls in real conditions to ensure they perform.
For more on vessel builders like this, check the Nauticapedia article.
A Look at Vessels Built by Daigle Welding and Marine
Over the years, daigle welding and marine has created many boats. A list from 2013 shows 102 vessels. Here are some highlights:
- BCML II (2013): A passenger vessel for smooth rides. Used for tours in coastal areas.
- Broughton Hustler (2019): Another passenger boat. Known for speed and space.
- Burrard 1 (1992): One of the early ones. A reliable passenger carrier.
- C00033BC (1999): Work boat for heavy tasks.
- C02797BC (2001): Built for durability in tough jobs.
- C26468BC (2017): Modern work boat with updated tech.
And many more, like fishboats and patrol vessels. Each has a unique registration and purpose. The range shows their skill in different types.
Building these takes steps:
- Planning: Talk with client about needs.
- Design: Draw plans with software.
- Fabrication: Cut and weld aluminum parts.
- Assembly: Put together hull, deck, and inside.
- Testing: Check for leaks, balance, and safety.
- Delivery: Hand over with training.
This process ensures quality. Many boats still run today, proving their build.
Achievements and Recognition
Daigle welding and marine has earned praise in the industry. Their boats win for design and performance. In 2013, they built the NPA Osprey, a 39-foot patrol vessel. It showed their ability in big projects.
The company joins groups like the Association of British Columbia Marine Industries. This keeps them up on trends. Customers note their on-time work and helpful staff.
One achievement is growing from small shop to major builder. They now employ 30 full-time workers. This creates jobs in Campbell River.
They also focus on safety. All boats meet strict rules. This reassures buyers.
For company details, see the Marine Electronics profile.
The Acquisition: Joining Bolton Marine Group
In 2019, a big change came. The Bolton Marine Group bought daigle welding and marine. This group owns other brands like KingFisher and Weldcraft. The buy brought new resources.
Byron Bolton saw the value in EagleCraft. He wanted to add their custom skills to the group. Steve Daigle stayed on to help shift things.
Now, Torry Wannenwetsch leads as managing director. Bob Kristmanson aids too. This keeps the original spirit alive.
The acquisition means more growth. They can reach new markets and add tech. Customers get the same quality, now with bigger backing.
Role in British Columbia’s Marine Industry
British Columbia’s marine sector is huge. It makes $4 billion in output each year. It supports 34,250 jobs. Daigle welding and marine plays a key part.
The province has over 25,000 km of coast. This needs strong boats for trade, fishing, and fun. Companies like this build vessels that help.
Stats show shipbuilding adds $1.4 billion and 12,000 jobs. Small craft like EagleCraft add $577 million and 5,000 jobs.
BC leads in clean tech too. Daigle welding and marine uses green methods, like recyclable materials.
They help local economy. Hiring in Campbell River boosts the town. They buy supplies from nearby firms.
The sector grows at 0.5% yearly. With demand for workers, they train new people. This builds skills for the future.
For more on welding resources, visit Laaster UK.
Customer Stories and Tips
Many owners share good experiences. A water taxi operator said, “Our EagleCraft runs daily without issues. It’s tough and efficient.”
A researcher noted, “The custom features help our work. We added special gear easy.”
Tips for buyers:
- Know Your Needs: List what you use the boat for. This guides design.
- Check Materials: Ask about aluminum grades. Higher ones last longer.
- Plan Budget: Custom work costs more but saves long-term.
- Test Drive: Try a similar model before buying.
- Maintain Regularly: Clean and check to keep it top shape.
These steps help you get the best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of daigle welding and marine?
Founded in 1985 by Steve Daigle in Campbell River, BC. Started with custom aluminum boats under EagleCraft.
What types of boats does daigle welding and marine build?
They make recreational, commercial, landing craft, patrol, and research boats. All custom aluminum.
Why choose aluminum boats?
They are durable, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to customize. Great for BC waters.
How can I contact daigle welding and marine?
Call 250-286-6749 or email boats@eaglecraft.bc.ca. Visit 2177 Island Hwy, Campbell River.
What happened after the acquisition?
Joined Bolton Marine Group in 2019. Continues building with added support.
Conclusion
Daigle welding and marine has shaped the marine world since 1985. From Steve Daigle’s start to today’s custom EagleCraft boats, they deliver quality and strength. Their services, from design to maintenance, help boaters thrive. In BC’s big marine sector, they stand as experts. Whether you need a work boat or fun craft, they build it right. What kind of boat project do you have in mind?
References
- Marine Electronics Company Profile: Provides contact and service details for daigle welding and marine. Useful for buyers seeking electronics integration.
- Nauticapedia Vessel Builders: Lists history and vessels built. Ideal for researchers on Canadian boat makers.
- EagleCraft Official Site: Shows current models and custom options. Great for potential customers.
- Canadian Boating Article (2018): Profiles Steve Daigle and company growth.
- Bolton Marine Group Acquisition Announcement: Details the 2019 buyout.