ABOUT US
Four Generations of Canadian-Built Durability Since 1948
Handcrafted Boats Built for Real Canadian Waters
The Goodreau Legacy
Built on Tradition, Welded for the Future
The story of Goodreau Boats is a story of Canadian craftsmanship that spans over 75 years. Founded by Raymond Goodreau in 1948, the company began as a humble commitment to quality fabrication, left his job and began fabricating steel boats in the basement in Tilbury, Ontario. As a lifelong hunter and fisherman, he wanted a rig that could handle shallow marshes, rocky rivers, backlakes, and challenging northern conditions. Raymond understood that for a boat to survive the rugged conditions of the Great Lakes and Ontario’s backwaters, it had to be over-built, not mass-produced.
Many of his original steel boats are still found on Northern Ontario waters today, proving the durability of his work.
Generations of Craftsmanship
In 1978, one of Raymond’s sons continued the Goodreau tradition.
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In 2009, Raymond’s grandson Mark revived the company after years of inactivity. Growing up around the boats, he spent his childhood in the shop and on the water. Mark modernized fabrication techniques, added customizable upgrades, and introduced a lighter and more efficient hull built from 5052 marine grade aluminum.
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This new aluminum design carried forward the strength of the original steel models while improving performance.
A New Era of Leadership
In 2021, leadership passed to Mark’s daughter Alyssa, marking the fourth generation of Goodreau family ownership. Alyssa is the first female owner of the company and the first female welder to build Goodreau Boats.
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Her focus is long-term growth. Alyssa is committed to restoring Goodreau Boats to national recognition across Canada, expanding production, and eventually building a full team of skilled tradespeople who share the Goodreau standard of craftsmanship.
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Both Alyssa and Mark maintain communication with customers throughout the build process, and they plan to continue strengthening that personal involvement as the company grows. This approach ensures every customer feels supported, informed, and connected to the legacy behind their boat.
Built for Real Use and Real Environments
Goodreau Boats are handcrafted in Ontario with purpose and precision. Each rig is built to order and fabricated one at a time, using fully welded seams, 5052 marine grade aluminum, and ribs stitch welded every six inches.
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The flat bottom provides exceptional shallow-water performance, while the uniquely shaped bow cuts through chop on lakes and river systems. This combination creates a versatile boat that performs in both deep and shallow environments.
Because the hull displaces less water than traditional V-bottom designs, Goodreau Boats require significantly less horsepower. This reduces fuel consumption and lowers overall operating costs.
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A Goodreau Boat is made to last a lifetime and made to be passed down, just like the Goodreau name itself.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to build reliable, handcrafted boats for Canadians who depend on durability, performance, and simplicity. We combine four generations of Goodreau craftsmanship with modern fabrication and customer-focused service to deliver boats that stand the test of time.
Our Values
Craftsmanship
Every boat is welded by hand with attention to detail, strength, and performance.
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Integrity
We operate with honesty and transparency and stand behind every boat we build.
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Customer Connection
We provide personal communication and a build experience designed around each customer.
Innovation
We continue to advance our fabrication methods while preserving our heritage.
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Heritage
We honour the tradition started in 1948 and build boats worthy of the Goodreau name.
Growth
We are committed to rebuilding Goodreau Boats into a well known Canadian brand and growing a team of skilled tradespeople as production expands.
If you’re ready to work with a company that puts quality and honesty first, click below to get started.
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