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With a 8’ 4" rod box, pair of tournament-grade fiberglass livewells, wide-open interior, and all-welded, high performance pad hull, our 189 Defender has everything you’d expect in a serious rig – except the higher price. Plus, this affordable, 18’ 7” machine is packed with bonus features. Built on our exclusive Dense Base™ superstructure, the design includes a beefy transom, engineered for the added convenience and versatility of shallow water anchors. The front deck includes 3-across seat bases, a wider interior for mounting spider rigs, and a forward livewell/baitwell. The helm of the 189 is equipped with smooth, BayStar™ hydraulic steering as well as speed, tach, fuel, and trim gauges. There’s also room for flush-mounting up to 12” electronics. High performance bucket seats center the layout, while the cockpit includes a world of leg room and an easy in/out cockpit design. Oversized, fiberglass storage boxes feature raised lips with rubber trim seals and compression latches for the ultimate wet-weather confidence. The 189 also comes with a Minn Kota Edge, upright, level flotation, our exclusive Hard Case™ paint with clear coat protectant, stainless steel pop-up cleats, a wide choice of outboards and electronics, and a custom-matched trailer with Victor Shield™ protective coating. The 189 Defender... From price to performance, here’s a serious design engineered to put you on fish and keep you there. |
FIBERGLASS CONSOLEWe don't stop at simply putting a fiberglass console in our boat. These Glass-Infused Aluminum Hybrid™ designs benefit from the looks, strength, and quality of fiberglass throughout the rig. The console is built with a cantilever design that improves legroom and overall feel. No sharp edges and plug-and-play wiring make additional rigging simple. |
OVERSIZED GELCOAT/FIBERGLASS REAR STORAGESNo more flimsy, plastic drop-in boxes held down with wood screws. Our fiberglass boxes are generously oversized while being sealed and foamed into each boat. It's a solid combination that reinforces our notably quiet, solid, and responsive feel. Additionally, the raised lid openings provide an even drier seal, delivering added protection from water and weather. |
OVERSIZED PEDESTAL BASESOthers use a ¾” diameter base to hold the fishing seats in place. We believe in going a step farther. Our 1.77” diameter base is stronger and will last longer. |
COMPRESSION LID LOCKSOne key to providing drier storage is to help ensure the lid completely seals. We accomplish this by using compression locks that pull the lid tight against the rubber seal. |
HARD CASE™ PAINTMany aluminum boats receive the same paint that's applied to a cheap utility trailer. Instead, we paint the entire hull showing no raw aluminum and the matching color is protected by a Hard Case™ clear coat. This provides a lasting finish that ensures a great look for years to come and ultimately increases resale value. |
SOLID STATE WIRING & LIT TIP SWITCHESThere's no room for cheap, snap locks and failure-prone fuses in our wiring harnesses. Instead, waterproof connectors and resettable breakers are coupled with our heavy gauge wiring for the ultimate in confidence and reliability. |
CUSTOM UPHOLSTERYComfort is critical and a focus of ours. You'll find that the custom driver and passenger seats not only look great but feel the same way. Why shouldn't the boat be built to fit you, not the other way around? Coupled with matching fold down fishing seats our rigs are ready for those long days on the water. |
TOURNAMENT-GRADE FIBERGLASS LIVEWELLWhen money's on the line it's comforting to know that our livewell system is designed to keep the day's catch healthy and safe. We incorporate a valve system that makes changes easy, no more sticking your hand in cold water to drain the livewell. Additionally, the well is equipped with recirculating aeration, a pump-out system, and Splash Guard technology. |
ADDITIONAL STANDARD UPGRADES
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ALL-WELDED HIGH PERFORMANCE PAD HULLOur groundbreaking high performance pad hull enjoys a running surface with less drag, increased bow lift, and superior overall handling and performance. The manufacturing processes we use create a consistent running surface not found in other brands. |
CUSTOM BUILT VEXUS® TRAILERDon't settle for a trailer built by the lowest bidder. Ours are built in-house, alongside your boat. But we don't stop there. An ultra-strong channel frame, UV-protected polyurea coating, LED lights, and aluminum wheels highlight the unparalleled package. |
RAISED LIP AND OVERSIZED SEAL FOR LID OPENINGSOur raised lips and oversized seals force water away from the lid openings. Evacuating the water is critical to keeping your gear dry. |
VECTOR FORCE™ TRANSOMOur Vector Force™ Transom is constructed of .125” aluminum and reinforced with 60% more material than the industry standard. |
WOOD-FREE DESIGNKnowing that your boat doesn't rely on any type of wood reinforcement is more than comforting. It's Wood-Free Confidence that translates into worry-free outings. Now, you can leave the regret of corner-cutting composites and squeaky, rotten plywood far behind. |
STAINLESS PULL-UP TIE CLEATSStop breaking rods and tearing clothing. Our stainless-steel pull-up cleats stay out of the way until they're needed. |
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINEERING
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ADVANCED ELECTRONICS
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COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
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HANDCRAFTED DETAILS
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TRAILER FEATURES
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CAPACITIES AND SPECIFICATIONS
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Buying a boat is a big investment, and you should feel confident in your decision. Even if you feel ready for the financial commitment of boat ownership, you might still be wondering: is it really worth it? The answer is up to you, but of course, we here at Howell’s Marine Sales & Service are big proponents of the marine lifestyle! If you need a little convincing, you came to the right place. Read on to discover the many benefits of having your own boat!
Boating is a great way to create unforgettable memories with family and friends. Everything is more exciting when you are out on the water! Even a casual day of cruising around the lake or lounging on the deck of your boat can be a wonderful bonding experience. You can also teach your children to fish, seek out remote destinations for swimming and snorkeling, or even stretch out under the stars and look for constellations and meteors. When you have your own boat, each summer day is an opportunity for marine adventure!
There is plenty of evidence to suggest that spending time in nature is one of the best ways to relieve stress. With a boat of your own, you can get away from the hustle and bustle whenever you feel like it, and enjoy some peace and quiet out on the water. Your boat is the perfect place to escape from everyday life and give yourself some much-needed time to recharge and reflect. There is comfort in solitude, and nothing feels more solitary than being alone on your boat!
Owning a boat gives you access to a whole new world of experiences, and that includes meeting new people! As you spend time at marinas and boat ramps, you will have the opportunity to meet other boaters. You can also seek out boat clubs in your area, and get involved in the local boating and fishing community. This is a great way to make new friends who share your enthusiasm for boating!
Are you ready to start shopping for your own boat? Head over to Howell’s Marine Sales & Service today! Whether you prefer a new or used boat, we can help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget. We proudly serve Chatham, ON, and our neighbours from London.