Hobie Customer Service — Professional, Practical Guide

Overview and primary resources

Hobie has been a market leader in small sailboats, kayaks, and fishing platforms for decades; the brand’s official hub for customer support and documentation is https://www.hobie.com. For any product question, start at that site: use the “Support,” “Owner’s Manuals,” and “Dealer Locator” pages to find model-specific manuals, exploded parts diagrams, and authorized service locations by ZIP code or country. Authorized dealers and Hobie-authorized service centers are central to warranty handling and many repairs, so locating an approved dealer near you is the first practical step.

Most manufacturers (including Hobie) direct customers with warranty or service issues through either their dealer network or an online contact form. Before calling or emailing, gather the product model name, model year, and serial or hull number — these identifiers determine warranty eligibility and correct part numbers. If you prefer phone or in-person help, Dealer Locator entries will list local phone numbers and operating hours for each authorized location.

Warranty registration, scope, and timelines

Warranty coverage varies by product family (sailboats, MirageDrive kayaks, inflatable SUPs, and accessory electronics). Typical policies cover manufacturing defects for a specified period from the date of retail purchase and require proof of purchase to validate claims. Common professional practice: register new Hobie products within 30–90 days of purchase on hobie.com or with your authorized dealer to simplify future warranty interactions and to ensure warranty start dates match your purchase date.

When assessing a claim, customer service will request: proof of purchase (receipt or dealer invoice with date and VIN/serial), clear photos of the defect from multiple angles, and the serial/hull number. For large repairs requiring return shipment, expect an initial eligibility determination within 3–10 business days after submission; once approved, turnaround for repairs through an authorized service outlet typically ranges from 2–8 weeks depending on part availability and backlog during peak season.

Ordering parts, expected costs, and inventory tips

Replacement part prices and availability depend on the part complexity and whether it is a wear item (paddles, hull fittings) or a major assembly (MirageDrive® leg assembly, hull panel). As an industry benchmark, individual small hardware items and wear parts commonly range from $5 to $120; mid-level components (seats, hatches, pedal components) typically range $80–$450; and major drive assemblies or electronics can be several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Always request manufacturer part numbers (PNs) from the parts diagram to avoid ordering incompatible items.

Inventory shortages are common on popular parts during spring and summer. If a part is out of stock from Hobie or a dealer, ask for an ETA and whether a compatible aftermarket alternative is approved for warranty safety. Keep records of any quotes and part numbers; for international customers, confirm cross-border shipping fees, VAT, and import duties — these can add a significant 10–30% to the landed cost depending on the country.

Troubleshooting: what to check before you call

Many service calls are resolved quickly when customers provide a few standardized diagnostics: (1) model and year, (2) serial/hull number, (3) date and location of the incident, and (4) clear photos or a short video of the issue in situ. For pedal-drive problems, test and describe pedal travel under load, unusual noises, or lateral play; for rudder or steering issues, report when the symptom occurs (at rest, while motoring, or under sail) and whether the control lines are new or original.

Electrical accessories require extra documentation: battery voltage under load, wiring diagrams if modified, and firmware versions for devices like the Hobie eFoil or powered accessories. When possible, isolate the fault (swap cables, test with a second battery) so customer service can rule out accessory or battery causes before pursuing warrantable repairs.

Checklist before contacting Hobie customer service

• Model name and model year, plus hull/serial number (usually printed on the hull or under a hatch).
• Digital photos (3–6) showing the full product and close-ups of the defect; include a ruler or coin for scale.
• Proof of purchase (retail receipt or dealer invoice) with date and dealer name.
• Any prior repair history or parts previously replaced, plus part numbers if known.
• Location and conditions at time of failure (salt/fresh water, collision, grounding), and whether the product was registered online.

Filing a warranty claim and repair logistics

Start warranty claims through the dealer who sold the product whenever possible; dealers often act as Hobie’s first-level service agent and can handle drop-off, inspection, and shipping. If you purchased from an online retailer or need direct support, use Hobie’s online contact form and attach your prepared checklist documentation. Expect a return merchandise authorization (RMA) if you are required to ship a product or part back — never ship without an RMA number as it can invalidate claims.

When shipping, follow Hobie or dealer packaging instructions closely: secure moving parts, use adequate cushioning, and insure the shipment for the product’s retail value. Retain tracking and insurance receipts; if a repair is covered under warranty, Hobie or the authorized dealer will typically cover the repair labor and parts per their warranty terms, but inbound shipping and expedited handling are often the customer’s responsibility unless otherwise approved.

Buying used Hobie equipment and service implications

Used Hobie boats and kayaks are common on the secondary market. Warranties are generally non-transferable except in specific cases defined in the warranty text — verify with Hobie and the selling dealer. When purchasing used, conduct a full inspection for stress cracks, deck delamination, rigging corrosion, and MirageDrive wear; ask the seller for maintenance records and original purchase paperwork if possible.

If you buy used and later require service, Hobie customer service will need the same identifying information (model, hull number) and will treat the product according to the current warranty status. Budget realistically for common reconditioning tasks on used units: hatch gasket replacement, sealant renewal, and basic rigging replacements are typical and can range from $150–$600 depending on labor rates and parts.

Steps to file a formal warranty claim

• Contact the selling dealer with your documentation; if unavailable, submit a claim via hobie.com support with photos and proof of purchase.
• Receive an eligibility response and, if approved, an RMA or instructions to deliver to an authorized service center. Save all correspondence.
• Ship per instructions, insure the package for full retail value, and track delivery. Expect an inspection period (3–10 business days) followed by repair scheduling; ask for an estimated completion date.

Did Hobie get bought out?

The Hobie Cat Company, a pioneer and market-leader in pedal-drive kayaks, was sold in January to an investment group led by Taso Sofikitis with other senior officials of Detroit-based Maynards Industries.

How to contact kayak by phone?

(855) 529-2501KAYAK / Customer service

Is the Hobie warranty transferable?

HOBIES warranty is transferable and goes with the boat.

How do I contact Hobie?

Shop Customer Service

1. Returns. Shipping. FAQ.
2. Headquarters. Hobie Cat Company. 4925 Oceanside Blvd. Oceanside, CA 92056. Phone: 1-760-758-9100. Email: [email protected].
3. Hours of Operation. Monday – Friday. 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM PDT.
4. Customer Service. Phone: 800-HOBIE-49 (800-462-4349) Email: [email protected].

Does Hobie have a lifetime warranty?

All Hobie® sunglasses and eyeglasses are warranted to the original purchaser against breakage caused by defects in materials or manufacturing, at Hobie®’s discretion, for the LIFETIME from date of purchase. Warranty is void without valid proof of purchase from an authorized Hobie® dealer.

How do I contact ride engine?

877-775-4832
If you do not have a RA# please contact Customer Service at [email protected] or 877-775-4832. You can also select Return from the drop-down menu on our Request Form. Please see details below regarding our return policy and process: Return shipping costs are not covered or refunded.