
I just took delivery of a new Stellar SEL, Advantage layup, specially outfitted from Stellar with an interchangeable over-stern rudder for river use (while still allowing quick installation of the under-stern rudder for big-water use). It’s much like the classic story of two lovers who meet for a brief time, then drift away, only to be reunited later for a “happily ever after” ending. Just in water craft form.
I first encountered the SEL while visiting a boat dealer I was helping in Traverse Bay, MI. Not having a boat with me, he loaned me an SEL in the Advantage Layup to go play on Traverse Bay. And play I did! I had an absolute blast in the SEL, marveling at the stability exhibited by the boat in spite of a low-resistance hull. I almost ordered one in carbon, but didn’t quite follow through.
My next encounter came at the recent Stellar dealer conference in Virginia Beach, VA. There I had the opportunity to play with a pair of SEL’s, one in Advantage Layup and the other in Excel Layup. Just like I remembered, the SEL was a marvelous combination of speed and stability. A boat that just begs you to go play, to search out waves and speed boat wakes, just laughing and giggling while running through all manner of water. The joy of my original encounter was once again confirmed. It was time to get one.
I wasn’t really quite ready to get another boat yet, but for various reasons the new SEL ended up in my garage. And I’m thrilled. I don’t think there’s anything I enjoy paddling as much (although the new SR is close). Some of the factors that make this such a wonderful boat are standard Stellar fare, such as the 3-point foot plate, built-in leash attachment point, pluggable bailer, curved hull that rides over weeds and leaves instead of picking them up, sharp entry and exit lines on the bow and stern to reduce drag, and the extra stiff and strong, but light hull. But there’s something magical about this boat, a stability that rivals intermediate surf skis while a speed capability that ranks with some of the fastest boats, allowing many paddlers to generate their maximum performance.
I needed this boat. You might also. 🙂 If you’re interested, give me a call at 260-452-6447.






Great story! I picked up a Stellar s18s and think that it is a great boat. I especially like the side handles as they really help with transport and placing the ski on the roof. Mine is an Advantage layup also and I find the weight to be perfect.
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The S18S is really a great boat – and I agree, the side handles help a lot. Glad to hear you like your S18S so well!
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