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Question:
My only suggestion is to buy a *welded* (not riveted) aluminum boat.
Over time, riveted boats leak. The source is an enlargement of the rivet holes and gradual elongation of the rivet joint. If you want to keep dry feet, get a welded boat. McGregor and Delta brands come to mind.
I am sure there are others.
Answer:
My 2 cents worth on aluminum boat construction, rivets vs. welding.
I have owned 2 aluminum john boats. A 14 foot Rich line (inexpensive) with
4 foot beam, 3 foot bottom had the hull riveted to ribs which were cut and bent, then welded to hold shape. Never had trouble with the rivets, but many of the rib welds broke. When I sold, the boat was loose as a goose.
I still have the 14 foot Alumacraft, 6 foot beam, 4 foot bottom (a nice stable boat) with the same construction (only heavier material is used);
It sees hard use duck hunting (shallows, stumps) and as a work barge
(I transport a 1200 lb boat hoist on it, and my neighbors use it for the same purpose). No trouble after 10 years.
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