I live in a remote area in Alaska. To get a boat here it takes a series of three barges and two overland hauls by truck. In other words, it is expensive to get a boat out here, so I wanted to get something that would last. I spent several months shopping and doing research before I purchased my 18' Pro V. I have been extremely happy with it. The company I work for has several skiffs out here and now they are looking to start replacing them with a boat like mine. User's recommendation: Buy.