1981 Boston Whaler 13
$12,000
Boat in Mystic, CT 06355 US
Built in 1981
13
1 Engine (Johnson)
13 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Solid example of this time proven runabout. Call today to schedule a showing.
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/31/26 | Initial price | $12,000 |
1981 Boston Whaler 13 Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Boston Whaler 130 Supersport is a modern reinterpretation of the classic 13-foot Boston Whaler, redesigned from the hull up to enhance seating, storage capacity, bottom shape, and styling while retaining the brand's hallmark unsinkable construction. This entry-level boat is delivered with a standard galvanized trailer and offers a blend of simplicity, ease of operation, and durability.
Exterior Design and Features
The 130 Supersport features a fiberglass bench seat as standard, with optional bucket seats that include a passageway between them and can be reversed to serve as a spotter's position for towing sports. These seats are notably comfortable for a boat of this size. Boston Whaler offers several hull color options beyond the standard white, including Classic Desert Tan, Glacier Green, Light Blue, and Light Gray, available either on the hull sides or both sides and bottom. The boat measures 14 feet in length including swim platforms, with a beam of 5 feet 10 inches and a hull draft of 9 inches when the engine is tilted up. The cockpit measures 4 feet 7 inches by 2 feet 5 inches, with a depth of 20 inches forward and 16 inches aft, and a stern freeboard of 13 inches. Standard features include 8-inch cleats on the inboard side of the stern eyes, small raised swim platforms with a boarding ladder to port, and NMMA certification to ABYC standards ensuring the ladder extends 22 inches below the water. Optional equipment includes a bimini top with a stainless steel frame that accommodates fishing rods through a slot in the canvas, a 50-quart cooler secured alongside the helm, a high bow rail, and a bow cushion measuring 4 feet 4 inches by 2 feet 6 inches. The deck is raised 14 inches and incorporates a large anchor locker with a finished underside hatch and a center-mounted 8-inch cleat positioned for anchoring, complemented by a cleverly designed running light that doubles as a chalk.
Helm and Controls
The helm bench seat spans four feet wide and includes supportive backrests. The helm features a five-spoke stainless steel steering wheel with a tachometer, knob light switch, and charging port located just to the right. An optional smoked acrylic windscreen is mounted atop the panel, with a locking glove box positioned below and forward. The shifted throttle lever is mounted on the starboard gunwale with the ignition key behind it. Storage is enhanced by pockets on the back of each bucket seat and a weather-resistant battery box beneath the port bench seat, while the 6.5-gallon portable fuel tank is secured to starboard. Additional amenities include beverage holders and a socket for the white knob light forward of the console.
Power and Performance
Our test boat was equipped with a 40-horsepower Mercury four-stroke outboard, with a 25-horsepower Mercury available as an alternative. The engine drove an aluminum 10.1x14 four-blade Spitfire propeller. At 6130 RPM, the boat achieved a top speed of 31 miles per hour in light chop conditions, with the bimini top stowed, which likely reduced top speed by one to two miles per hour. The optimal cruising speed was recorded at 4000 RPM, yielding 16.5 miles per hour and a fuel consumption of 1.8 gallons per hour. This equated to 9.2 miles per gallon and a cruising range of approximately 54 statute miles, maintaining a 10% fuel reserve from the 6.5-gallon tank. The boat's time to plane was approximately five seconds, demonstrating sufficient low-end torque from the 40-horsepower engine without requiring forward weight adjustment. Acceleration to 20 miles per hour took 10.1 seconds. Maneuverability tests revealed a smooth and enjoyable ride, with the boat maintaining a flat attitude through turns and responding well to trim adjustments.
Conclusion
The Boston Whaler 130 Supersport is a thoughtfully updated version of a classic small boat, offering improved seating, storage, and hull design while preserving the brand’s signature unsinkability. Its manageable size, standard trailer, and engaging on-water performance make it an excellent choice for entry-level boaters seeking a reliable and fun vessel. The combination of practical features and enjoyable handling ensures that the 130 Supersport remains a compelling option in its class.
Overview from around the web 1981 Boston Whaler 13
Customers praise the 1981 Boston Whaler 13 for its exceptional durability and classic design
Many highlight its sturdy construction and unsinkable hull, which provide a strong sense of safety on the water. Owners appreciate its versatility, noting that it performs well for fishing, leisure cruising, and as a reliable tender. The boat's compact size makes it easy to trailer and maneuver, ideal for both beginners and experienced boaters. Overall, users commend the 1981 Boston Whaler 13 for delivering dependable performance and timeless appeal.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1981 Boston Whaler 13 offers a range of benefits along with a few considerations to keep in mind:
Pros
Unsinkable Design: Like all Boston Whalers, the 13 features a foam-filled hull, making it virtually unsinkable and exceptionally safe.
Lightweight and Maneuverable: Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to handle both on and off the water, ideal for beginners or quick trips.
Versatile Use: Perfect for fishing, small outings, or as a tender boat, offering flexibility for various water activities.
Durable Construction: Built with quality materials that have stood the test of time, ensuring longevity and reliability.
Low Maintenance: Simple design and quality build mean less upkeep compared to larger or more complex boats.
Cons
Limited Space: The 13-foot length restricts passenger capacity and storage, making it less suitable for larger groups or extended trips.
Minimal Comfort Features: Basic seating and lack of amenities mean it’s more functional than luxurious.
Limited Power Options: Smaller size limits engine choices, which may affect speed and performance in rougher conditions.
Not Ideal for Rough Water: Best suited for calm waters; performance can be less stable in choppy or open-sea environments.
Made For
The 1981 Boston Whaler 13 is ideal for boating enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable small craft. Perfect for anglers, families, and recreational boaters, this model offers excellent stability and ease of handling, making it suitable for fishing, cruising, or watersports in calm inland waters and coastal areas. Its compact size and durable design also make it a great choice for those looking for a dependable tender or a first boat to enjoy on the water.
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Boats For Sale in Connecticut, United States Similar to the 1981 Boston Whaler 13
Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 1981 Boston Whaler 13 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,000 | $19,500 | $24,900 | $24,995 | $26,923 | $30,000 |
| Mystic | Mystic | Jewett City | Mystic | Norwalk | Norwalk |
| 13' | - | 20' | 17' | 13' | 17' |
| Johnson | Mercury | - | Honda | MERCURY | Mercury |
| 25 hp | 90 hp | 175 hp | 100 hp | 40 hp | 90 hp |
| 459 | 279 | 48 | 65 | 84 | 42 |
Other Boston Whaler boats for sale in Connecticut, United States
Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Yachts New England about 1981 Boston Whaler 13
38 Bayside Ave, Groton, CT, 06340
Login with Google