A North Carolina resident is taking legal action against a boat manufacturer, alleging that the company sold him a defective vessel. Josh Hartgrove filed a complaint in the Superior Court Division of Stokes County on October 31, 2025, accusing Sea Pro Boats, LLC of failing to deliver a seaworthy boat as promised. The case raises questions about consumer rights and product quality in the boating industry.
According to the complaint, Hartgrove purchased a 2023 Sea Pro 320 boat from Get Wet Marine on September 15, 2023. He relied on Sea Pro Boats’ marketing claims that the vessel was designed for offshore use, capable of withstanding ocean conditions. However, from his first outing on September 18, Hartgrove encountered numerous issues. The transducer failed immediately, prompting him to return the boat for repairs on October 9. Despite multiple repair attempts by both the dealer and Sea Pro’s factory, problems persisted. By February 17, 2024, Hartgrove discovered cracks in critical areas of the boat and continued to face mechanical failures such as fuel gauge inaccuracies and leaks in electronic compartments.
Hartgrove contends that these defects not only breach the purchase agreement but also violate express and implied warranties regarding the boat’s fitness for its intended purpose. He claims that Sea Pro Boats has had multiple opportunities to rectify these issues but has failed to do so adequately. “The issues aren’t just any issues; they make it unsafe to travel offshore like the Boat is made for,” Hartgrove stated in his complaint.
In response to these ongoing problems, Hartgrove has sought relief through several legal avenues. He is pursuing damages exceeding $25,000 for breach of contract and warranty violations. Additionally, he seeks rescission of the purchase agreement due to alleged misrepresentations by Sea Pro Boats regarding the vessel’s condition and suitability for offshore use. Hartgrove argues that he would not have purchased the boat had he known about its defects and Sea Pro’s reluctance to honor its commitments.
The plaintiff’s attorney, Peter J. Juran of Blanco Tackabery & Matamoros P.A., emphasizes that Hartgrove has been deprived of both use and enjoyment of his purchase due to its unreliability and safety concerns—particularly when considering outings with his daughter aboard an untrustworthy vessel meant for long-distance sea travel.
The case is being overseen by Judge [Name Not Provided] under Case ID: 25CV001856-840 at Stokes Superior Court Division. With substantial financial implications involved—including annual insurance costs exceeding $2,000 while awaiting resolution—this lawsuit highlights significant challenges faced by consumers seeking redress against manufacturers who fail their obligations.
Source: 125cv001856_Hartgrove_v_Sea_Pro_Boats_LLC_Complaint_Western_District_North_Carolina.pdf
