VEC® Construction

Building something right is a labor of love. At Larson, we love boats. The way they look, how they work, and the act of actually putting them together. That’s why we don’t settle, or cut corners on any aspect of the process. From the materials we choose to the methods we use, we follow exacting standards of quality. This allows us to build better boats while controlling costs. And that, in a nutshell, is how we define “value.” That combination of craftsmanship, commitment and honest value is how it’s always been at Larson. Which is why, year after year, we’ve received recognition and awards – from the boating industry and press, for customer satisfaction, and for environmental stewardship. But after all is said and done, our biggest reward is the feeling you get when you take your new Larson out for the first time.

Virtual Engineered Composites, or VEC, is a patented, proven process that allows for efficiency and precision unobtainable by traditional fiberglass molding techniques. The VEC process replaces the traditional open-molding process with a computer-monitored, closed-mold system that produces complex fiberglass parts of defined thickness and strength.

For 2008, we’re introducing a new application of VEC, called VEC Unitized Construction. This process produces a hull that incorporates the stringer, floor, transom and hull in a single, unitized part. As a result, the unitized hull is structurally stronger and more durable than a hull supported by a separate fiberglass or wood stringer and multiple parts. It also produces smooth surfaces in the engine compartment and within storage areas, without the need for a separate pan or liner.

The precision of the VEC process enhances the consistency of the running surface and hull weight for better performance and fuel efficiency. The boat feels exceptionally solid in rough water, so handling stays true. Vibration and rattles are virtually eliminated for a smoother, quieter ride. And since the boat is manufactured with more precision, other parts like seats and windshields can be made with tighter tolerances for a better fit and long-lasting durability.

Larson is so confident in the integrity of VEC Unitized Construction it offers a lifetime limited warranty on its boat hulls manufactured with VEC.

34 oz. mega vinyl with 19 mils of top thickness ensures Larson owners they are getting the best upholstery available.
All top-grade foam and vinyl is treated to prevent fading and mildew.
24 oz. marine carpet has a warranty against fading and fiber failure. It is UV stabilized, mildew and stain resistant. Snap-in carpets use stainless steel snaps for longevity.
Cushion bottoms are finished with a breathable mesh for a quality finish.
Polyethylene moisture barriers between vinyl and foam keep seats from getting water logged.
Roto-cast seat frames will not rot or break.
Larson is one of the few manufacturers that custom builds most of our own interiors. All surfaces are hand stitched and upholstered with threads resistant to fading and saltwater rot.
The best UV protection in the business, wrinkle and mildew resistant Sunbrella Canvas.

Quality Programs

Building a better boat: where art meets science. When Paul Larson, our founder, built his first boats more than 90 years ago, he was driven by curiosity and a love of the outdoors. Paul may not recognize how we build boats today, but he would still see the same commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Larson has always been a pioneer in the boating industry, embracing new technologies, new ways of thinking – anything that helps us build better boats. We combine these methods with new internal programs and policies with the singular goal of promoting a quality-conscious atmosphere. These and other programs are driving the way we build better boats today, and into the future.

All programs are compliant to ISO standards. This internationally accepted quality assurance registration assures that Larson Boats meet the world criteria for quality system requirements that cover all aspects of the company. Larson became the first marine company to have an ISO registered customer service department.

AESOP (All Electrical Systems Operational)
Ensures the correctness of all electrical systems in Larson product. This three-part operation implements the high-voltage, computer-monitored tests at the three different factory locations during the manufacturing phase and finishes with a detailed diagnostic of every switch, every wire and every gauge in the boat.

CAD-CAM Designed
This creates a 3D design concept on-screen. We can design parts to fit together perfectly. We can then download the design to a 5-axis router that actually creates that perfect part.

FEA Simulated Design (Finite Element Analysis)
This allows Larson to take a CAD-created model and simulate boating conditions. Larson can check for stress areas, hinge points and what the running characteristics will be before the boat ever hits the water. Anything less then perfection can be corrected at this point.

KAIZAN
Lean Manufacturing. Larson team members implement a rigorous schedule of Kaizan events to constantly analyze the methods and systems used to build product, handle customer needs and improve every aspect of our business.

KPI (Key Performance Indicator)
This quality program assigns key personnel to monitor year-by-year comparisons. They look for trends and improvements to be implemented into the key areas like delivery, quality and safety issues.

QATS (Quality at the Source)
Empowers each craftsperson with the responsibility to accept the work done that precedes their operation. This ensures each product component is built to the high standards set by our Engineering and Quality Control departments. Quality is not “inspected-in” at the end of the line, it is “built-in” during the entire manufacturing process.

Larson meets or exceeds the quality standards of the following organizations:
NMMA (National Marine Manufacturer’s Association), ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council), All cruisers are Yacht Certified (Double hose clamps,bronze/chrome thru-hull fittings, Gel-filled wire connectors, breakers – not fuses), USCG (United States Coast Guard), CCG (Canadian Coast Guard), CE Certified (An international certification) for the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Turkey and The Netherlands.