River City Boat Works

I took my 98 Searay 185 in to be serviced on 8÷11÷15. I needed the impeller service, driveline oil and engine oil replaced. I also opted to have the boat detailed. When I arrived it was a little hard to tell where to park my boat because the front of the business was full of other large boats. So I tried to take it to the back of the shop but ended up having to turn around and park it across the street when there wasn’t room behind the shop. I walked up and was greeted by the owner and a friendly dog. I confirmed with him what I needed done and when I needed it by and I was off. I was told it would take about a week to complete which was perfect as I needed it the following weekend. When I left the boat it had a bad water ring around the bottom from sitting in Tahoe for a few days last season as well as dirt and dust inside. A week later I returned and my boat looked very sharp. No more ring and very clean inside. He came out to meet me and noticed a spot under the front passenger seat that he missed and promptly grabbed the vacuum and finished it up. Then he went and got the parts that were replaced to show me. A big plus for me as that’s proof that the work was done. From there we settled the bill which was reasonable and on par with other places I have taken my boat for service. Overall I was treated well and felt that he was straightforward with me the entire time. He performed the work on schedule as promised and I couldn’t be happier. I will be returning next year for more service work.

I had Nick come out to my boat to adjust some controls. On the appointed day, he shows up with an assistant carrying his tool bag. Rather than do any of the work I brought him out for… he proceeds to stand over my engines with a flash light and repeat «oil leak here, and here, and here, and over there, and here, etc.». There were no leaks and it was really quite comical to watch him. I reminded him about the adjustments he was there to repair and he informed me «until I get this into the shop and fix all these other problems — I can’t adjust anything». At that point, he and his trusty tool toting assistant have their hands out for their hundreds of dollars for a «service call» and, much to my relief, go on down the road.
One of the guys on the docks said «HI» to him as we walked by… he apparently knew Nick so after showing him the way out I went back and asked him what that show was all about. He told me to consider myself lucky to still have my skin. Another fella on our docks hired him to «fix his gas engine» — his bill was $ 26,000.00 !
Reading Nick’s bio… he states he’s been boating for 20 years — whoop de do. He goes further to state he’s been in a mechanic for four years and those years he was self-​employed. His assistant knew less than Nick — I did get him to tighten a screw, but had to lend him the phillips head driver to do it as they didn’t bring any in their bag?
I wouldn’t touch him with a 10′ pole.

I called this business for inspecting my boat’s engine after some water came into the engine. It was Thursday and they asked me to bring the boat in. After we have done the paper work, they said «We will check the engine and call you to let you know what’s needed to be done». I have waited for their call till Monday 4:00PM, nobody called to update me about the status of my boat.
When I called afterward, the guy told me that they need to check the engine to let me know what work is needed! When I complained for not checking it till now or not even calling me to update me about the status of my boat, he said literally «If you do not like it, you may come and take your boat». The boat staid with them from Thursday till the end of Monday without looking at it or just calling me to let me know.
I did take my boat back untouched. For me personally, I will never come back to do business with these guys. I would like to be treated honestly and respectfully.

Took my 25 foot cruiser there for some exhaust risers and bellows work. After inspecting the boat they came back with an estimate that was a too expensive and stated I might be looking at an engine replacement. I knew better. The engine is solid to this day. I asked them to allow me to buy the parts for the work. They agreed. When I got the boat back it wouldn’t run so I asked a local boat mechanic to come and check it out. He thought the riser bolts were loose causing coolant weeping both externally and internally. The kill switch was disconnected he connected and made a few adjustments. I tightened down the riser bolts and the cold starting/​idling issues were resolved. I was having to add antifreeze and I never did before. I looked at a hose clamp that was loose and tightened it. Every hose clamp on the engine was loose. Each took 2 to 2 ½ turns to make snug. Had I not paid attention to the fluids closely I could have overheated the engine and had to replace the engine. I think they either lack the ability to complete the details or it was sabotage for calling ‘BS’ on the engine replacement statement. Not sure. I will not return to them or refer anyone to them. Beware…

To start the service was great. Called to make an 9:00am appointment to have our Sea Ray 185 Sport serviced, oil change ($ 89, including oil and filter) and impeller service ($ 196.97 including parts). They let me know it could take a few days to complete.
The shop was a little hard find but with a quick call I was given directions and greeted curb side, very nice! Was given a written contract for the oil change and impeller service. At the time of dropping it off, I let them know of a few other issues, including the bilge pump and jack. Nick called me back within a few hours of dropping it off with estimates for the additional work.
In the early afternoon, Nick called again to inform me of a minor problem with the gimble bearing. As I am new to this they gave me the opportunity to drive down and take a look at what the problem was. I appreciate they offered to do that. When I arrived, I was amazed to see all the activity. Several mechanics working on the many different model Sea Rays on the lot. I was encouraged to turn the gimble and feel how the movement was not smooth but ‘bumpy’. Glad they caught that. Another $ 150, including labor.
Nick called me back the next morning reporting it was ready to be picked up!!! I was impressed with the speed and quality. I think I’ll be going back.