Almar was launched in 1975, with an aluminum boat based on the designs of a prominent riverboat racer. The first boat, the Jetline, quickly became the riverboat design benchmark in the Northwest and Alaska. As the need grew for an offshore hull, Almar developed the Sounder line, with hulls ranging from 17' to 38'. Almar also pioneered the rigid aluminum inflatable vessel (RAIV). The first RAIV series, designed for use in Hawaii, influenced changes in the Sounder model. In response to increasing requests for a softer ride and more power, Almar adapted the RAIVs deep 24° bottom to the Sounder hull and added a wide, flat chine in the early 90's. The step-chine Sounder was the result of this, and fast became the overwhelming choice for high-speed patrol and rescue craft.

Today, Almar by North River Boats custom designs aluminum vessels for an expansive array of clients — from private party fishing boats and the Navy's Oil Spill Response group, to local, state, national and international governments and specialized corporate research departments.

Almar by North River Boats’ specialty is our ability to customize boats for very specific needs — and our continuing commitment to innovation - making great boats even better.