West Marine's recent warranty issues

[svDrifter]

West Marine's [latest] buyout and previous warranties...

I'm wondering what kind of experience others have had with West Marine recently, following what is now [at least] their third ownership and management. Specifically, I'm curious about the response they've received regarding "West Marine" branded merchandise and more specifically their inflatable dinghys. I'm having a bit of an issue regarding one that I purchased a while back that has been nothing but problems, and WM seems to think that if they just ignore it, I'll "go away". (Ain't gonna' happen!)

Any feedback would be appreciated.

[LouK]

I've been through two WM dinghys in three years, none of which saw much use, may 5-6 times a year. The first's transom came loose, the second one's bottom came off. To their credit, they did give me a partial refund with little hassle. I finally purchased a Highfield which would have saved me money had I purchased it in the first place. Bottom line, cheap dinghies are not cheap for very lond.