BOAT REVIEW: CENTER CONSOLES · hp outboards the boat runs to a top speed of 48 mph....

Today’s center consoles are more specialized than

ever. Some builders aim for all-out luxury, while others

deliver hardcore fishing machines. On the luxury side,

builders are enclosing heads, creating spacious cabins

for overnights and adding premium sound systems. Yet

the purpose-built fishing vessel is alive and well since

center consoles are the most popular vessels for targeting

offshore gamefish such as dolphin, sailfish and tuna.

How center console boats are used greatly depends

on the buyer. The trend toward luxury party platforms

with center console boats began more than 15 years

ago, and it hasn’t slowed down. Now those beautiful

center consoles are getting bigger, and increased size

means more amenities can be added on board.

For fishing center consoles, advancements in

electronics have made these boats better than ever to find

and catch fish. Today’s multi-function displays tie in all the

depth sounder, radar and engine data into one easy-to-

read screen, and that allows the captain to spend more

time searching for fish. Turn the page for a look at some

of the top center console boats on the market. Whether

you’re looking for on-water parties or landing a monster

fish, there’s a center console here to satisfy.

By Doug Thompson

BOAT REVIEW: CENTER CONSOLES

JOH

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AM

BE

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JULY 2015 • SOUTHERNBOATING.COM • 53

The Albury Brothers 33 was born out of demand for a

big sister to the builder’s 27-footer. Willard Albury and crew

tweaked the hull plug until it was perfect at the company

shop on Man O’ War Cay, Abaco, Bahamas. The 11' beam

tapers down 18 inches at the stern, a design that keeps

her end light and reduces drag. The

33 has substantial freeboard, while

still maintaining an attractive shear

line. Cavernous storage abounds in

the forward seating area, fish boxes,

console head compartment, and the

aft lazarette. The aft section offers

practicality, and the walk-around

livewell is great for fishing. The boat

carries up to 14 passengers and is

easy to enter and depart. The 33’s

all-around ride, handling and stability

is the result of Albury’s building

tradition of round-bilge boats, and

the 33 provides a seaworthy ride.

On a sloppy day, enjoy a comfortable running attitude by

throttling the twin Yamaha 300-hp engines down to 3500

RPM and 25 mph at 1.8 miles per gallon. With twin 350-

hp outboards the boat runs to a top speed of 48 mph.

alburybrothers.com; (561) 862-7006

The Axopar 28 T-top (28'3" LOA, 9'4" beam) is a

well-designed, plush center console built for day and

overnight trips, where water sports, sunbathing or just

relaxing with friends and family is high on the priority list.

Built in Finland, this sleek walkaround center console

with canvas T-top features an intelligently designed aft

cabin for two that doubles as a large sun deck. The

deck also sets the stage for all on-

water activities, and the maximum

passenger capacity is eight. In

addition, the spacious foredeck

features a large L-shaped sofa with

table for four and within minutes

transforms into a sun bed. A

separate stowage area and head

with sink in the front section of

the helm console is also accessed

from the foredeck. The Axopar 28

TT model is also available with an

upgrade that includes ventilation

and lights in the aft cabin. The

upgrade features twin Lewmar roof hatches, mosquito

nets and a roof headliner. The 28 TT runs on a double-

step hull with a 28-degree deadrise and sharp V-entry at

the bow. The boat runs to 45 knots when powered by a

Mercury Marine 250-hp Verado XL outboard engine, or

choose the Mercury 150-hp Verado XL for a top speed of

36 knots. axopar.fi; (305) 330-1025

AXOPAR 28 TT

ALBURY BROTHERS 33

CENTER CONSOLES

54 • SOUTHERNBOATING.COM • JULY 2015

The new Boston Whaler 420 Outrage (42'6" LOA, 13'

beam) is the largest Whaler model to date, with thoughtful

social zones throughout the boat and amenities for a

wide range of activities. For example, a clever backrest

configuration in the expansive bow area provides 360-degree

seating around the large, removable bow table. An available

sunshade easily deploys over the area providing welcome

protection from the sun. The helm area

of the 420 accommodates up to six

passengers while underway, all facing

forward, standing or sitting. An actuated

captain’s seat and dual forward- or

backward-facing companion seating is

accompanied by an entire second row—a

conversion bench flips to face forward

or aft for when the main action is in the

rear cockpit. Powered by quad 350-hp

Mercury Verado outboards with Joystick

Piloting, the boat runs to a top speed

of 53.6 mph. Back it down to 35.3 mph

at 4500 rpm for a cruising range of 365

miles. The center console design affords easy 360-degree

walkaround ability, and an optional upper station provides

a superior vantage point for tracking game fish. The cabin

features seven feet of headroom, skylights, eye-level

porthole windows, galley, and head. The V-berth dining

table converts easily to a bed, with an additional sleeping

space to port. bostonwhaler.com; (800) 942-5379

BOSTON WHALER 420 OUTRAGE

The Bonadeo 37 (37' LOA, 10' beam) is a true custom offering

blending classic looks with modern technology. Aesthetically

pleasing colors mixed with rich woodwork above deck instantly

take you back to days when hands built boats, not machines.

The clean lines conceal six insulated storage compartments,

two of which are designed to house 13-gallon trashcans. A

supple helm seat opens to reveal a wet bar complete with

granite counter top, bamboo cutting boards and an under-

mounted stainless sink. Below this is a

serious tackle center loaded with storage

and Plano boxes. The low profile console

maintains an outstanding line of sight while

running and provides a sealed electronics

compartment—a powerful stereo is also

concealed and protected. Inside the helm

console is an oversized queen V-berth with

exotic hardwood interior, A/C, microwave,

TV, sink and head. The traditional

appearance hides the ultra-modern

composite construction of Kevlar®, carbon

fiber and structural foam cores. In addition, Wi-Fi and a vessel-

specific app allow full-system monitoring and control from your

smart phone or tablet both on and off the vessel—check pumps,

lighting and other systems from off the boat including turning the

A/C on and off. This system is topped off with remote control

battery switches and remote start. Powered by triple Mercury

Marine 300-hp Verado outboard engines, the 37 runs to a top

speed of 60 mph. bonadeoboatworks.com; (772) 463-7447

BONADEO 37


Century Boats’ new 2600 CC offers big boat ride

with small boat maneuverability. The 2600 CC (26'

LOA, 8'6" beam) is packed with standard equipment,

but with plenty of optional upgrades to tailor the boat

to any specific need. The 2600 CC combines fishing,

performance, and luxury family amenities, with the

mantra “It’s off shore on Friday, the

sand bar Saturday, and ready for

dinner Sunday.” The 2600 CC’s deck

provides plenty of walkable space and

is surrounded by ample storage, with

two insulated fish boxes and a 42-gallon

bait well system with a Power Stream

Venturi Aerator. Six gunwale rod holders,

an enclosed electric head, freshwater

shower at transom, and a four-battery

management system are some of

the standard features. In addition, an

adjustable entertainment table forward,

fiberglass hardtop with spreader

lights, rod holders, and Fusion speakers complete the

standard and optional features. Offered with twin Yamaha

outboards, you can opt for 150-, 200-, or 225-horsepower

engines to get you on the fish fast. With twin 200-hp

engines, the 2600 CC runs to a top speed of 51 mph and

cruises at 26.6 mph. centuryboats.com; (813) 236-8879

Chris-Craft’s Catalina 34 (34' LOA, 10'10" beam)

comes fully equipped and offers twin- and triple-engine

combinations. Fuel capacity is 300 gallons for long-range

excursions from Florida’s coast into The Bahamas, or

from New York to Martha’s Vineyard. Powered by twin

Mercury Marine 350-horsepower outboard engines, the

Catalina 34 runs to a top speed of 62 mph, and cruises

at 24 mph. The Catalina 34’s clean lines include a level

shear line turned up smoothly to the bow and flare for

knocking down spray. A sharp V-entry

helps the boat carve through the sea,

and 21 degrees of transom deadrise

helps improve performance. No matter

where your boating adventures take

you, the Catalina 34 will get you

there in comfort. The Catalina 34’s

bow area offers ample seating, and

the sunpad conversion for lounging

is a simple process. The double

sun lounger features arm rests and

drink holders. With 360-degree

visibility, the Catalina 34’s helm offers ample space

for all the latest electronics. The glass windshield

offers increased visibility and provides comfort to the

helm and two companion chairs against inclement

weather. Below the forward helm seating and console

are overnight capabilities with a well-appointed berth

and accommodating head. There is plenty of usable

space for the fisherman, scuba diver and overnighter.

chriscraft.com; (941) 351-4900

CENTURY 2600 CC

CHRIS-CRAFT CATALINA 34

CENTER CONSOLES


CENTER CONSOLES

The all-new Contender 22 Sport was introduced this

year to round out Contender’s small boat lineup and is

the smallest boat offered in the fleet. The 22 Sport (22'6"

LOA, 8'6" beam) offers the tournament-class fishability

that Contender is known for while including features and

options that allow for family and entertainment activities.

Built in Homestead, Florida, the 22 Sport not only comes

standard with forward and aft seating but

also has a step-down side-entry console

with an optional head. For anglers,

there’s a 26-gallon transom livewell, three

large insulated fish boxes and plenty of

other insulated storage. Power options

range from a single Yamaha 250-hp

or 300-hp outboard engine to twin-

engine configurations from 115 to 150

horsepower. With a single Yamaha F250

outboard engine, the 22 Sport runs to

a top speed of 55.5 mph at 5900 rpm.

The aft deck provides ample room for

fishing, and the use of covering boards

and bolster pads along the gunwales protect your knees

while fighting a fish. Recessed cleats and bow rails around

the boat help ensure snag-free fishing while providing

a yacht-like finish. Options include a hardtop instead

of the standard T-top, freshwater and saltwater wash

downs, and an optional cooler for under the leaning post.

contenderoffshore.com; (305) 230-1600

CONTENDER 22 SPORT

The Cobia 277 CC was built for those who feel 30 feet is a

bit too much and 25 is just not enough. The Cobia 277 (27'7"

LOA, 9'8" beam) provides big-water performance and features

in a manageable package. Serious anglers will appreciate the

stem to stern single-level cockpit, the dual oversized fish boxes

with macerators, and the sportfisher-style deluxe tackle station

with optional rocket launcher rod rack. The raised 42-gallon aft

livewell is located just off centerline, which

makes accessing bait easy when trolling

or when multiple anglers are fishing on the

stern. Covering boards in the aft cockpit

allow for hidden storage of rods, gaffs and

long-handled brushes, and when coupled

with the optional toe rails provide anglers a

place to lock in and get a straight upward

pull on big fish digging for the bottom.

Though tournament ready, the 277 CC

doesn’t omit creature comforts. The boat

comes standard with a hideaway electrically

lifted bow table, forward entry step-down console with china

head, deluxe bolstered helm seats, and fold-down rear bench

seating. Easy access for maintenance of the plumbing, batteries

and electrical systems finishes out the smart layout. Designed

to run with twin Yamaha F200 outboard engines, the 277 CC

runs to a top end in the mid-50s and cruises in the mid-30s.

cobiaboats.com; (772) 460-5258

COBIA 277 CC


The 368CC is unique in design and in execution and

features a twin-step hull design using the latest Single

Piece Infusion Technology. Advanced technology is

integrated throughout the 368CC (36'8" LOA, 11'4"

beam). The hardtop is built with carbon fiber and

infused to create a lighter hardtop that is stronger than a

traditional hardtop. The engines, navigation, steering and

switching are managed through the

NMEA 2000 and C-Zone switching

systems. Family and fishing features

are found throughout this center

console. The walk-in console cabin

provides generous room and comes

complete with many amenities such as

a berth, head and galley. Comfortable

seating can be found throughout

the boat from the three-across helm

and mezzanine seating all the way

to the bow wraparound seating.

The standard dive door to port and

walk-through transom provide added

comfort and convenience for your days on the water.

This boat serves many different boating styles and needs

whether you want to run to The Bahamas or cruise to your

local sandbar in style. When powered by triple Yamaha

F300 outboard engines, the 368CC runs to a top speed of

65.2 mph and cruises at 36.5 mph. ewboats.com;

(386) 426-5457

EDGEWATER 368CC

The Dusky 252 XF (25'2" LOA, 8'5" beam) is a center

console fishing machine that gets up and goes. The 252

XF’s sleek lines afford ease of entry and a dry, comfortable

ride. The Dusky 252 XF is equipped with all of the most

popular features and includes VHF radio, GPS/depth

finder, audio entertainment system, underwater lighting,

dive ladder, trim tabs, and everything else needed to

get you onto the water. The 252

also features the Dusky Drive, a

unique outboard bracket which

adds improved maneuverability and

stability to your craft while improving

flotation. Dusky’s hand-laminated

heavy-duty hull is built with stringers

glassed into the hull for strength and

rigidity. In addition, the hull and deck

are fiberglassed together for a bond

that is not only physical but also

chemical. This bond reduces the

shakes, rattles and clunks typically

found in boats utilizing two-piece construction. Other

standard features include a 100-gallon fuel tank, a 60-gallon

livewell, a transom seat with backrest, fuel/water separator,

twin batteries, and a T-top. Dusky offers Evinrude, Mercury

and Suzuki outboard power. When equipped with twin 150-

hp engines the 252 XF runs to a top speed of more than 50

mph. dusky.com; (954) 922-8890

DUSKY 252 XF


CENTER CONSOLES

Everglades Boats’ 243SS is a hybrid bay/offshore boat

that is versatile enough to handle nearly any sea condition

encountered in shore or off shore. As a nod to its critical

success, Everglades Boats created the 243SS out of the

243 center console design. (The “Signature Series” model

was created to honor legendary owner and founder of

Everglades Boats, Bob Dougherty.) Built on the traditional

243CC frame (24'3" LOA, 8'2"

beam), the 243SS is powered by a

Yamaha 300-horsepower four-stroke

outboard engine, which pushes the

boat to a top speed of 50.1 mph.

With a cruising speed of 26.8 miles

per hour the boat has a range of 244

miles. The 243SS offers abundant

storage, including a 67-gallon

macerated forward fishbox and port

and starboard under-gunwale rod

and tackle storage. With additional

under-seat rod storage, she’s ready

for a long day on the water. Built at the Everglades facility

in Edgewater, Florida, the 243SS offers a custom, blue

metallic hull, white engine, underwater lights, Garmin

electronics, and a premium JL audio system. Take into

account the rich wood accents, fine upholstery and solid

wood steering wheel, and the 243SS makes a strong first

impression. evergladesboats.com; (877) 902-6287

The Hunt 32cc is a versatile design that combines the

key attributes of a day boat with the functionality of a center

console fishing boat and the added benefit of the authentic

Hunt deep-V hull. The Hunt 32cc (32'1" LOA, 10'6" beam)

features plenty of space to stow fishing rods and wakeboards,

and offers forward seating for eight passengers. Powered by

twin Yamaha F250 outboard engines, the Hunt 32cc runs to a

top speed of 45 mph. Hunt’s innovative extension of the center

console—reaching from centerline to

the port rail—allows for an aft-facing,

walk-in companionway leading to the

interior. Because it faces aft, getting

to the enclosed head, the galley and

bunk/rod storage is convenient and

easy. This companionway configuration

is also family friendly—kids can go

below in safety even when the boat is

running. The extension of the console

makes room for the microwave,

mini fridge and counter space of the

galley, while the console itself enables

standing headroom in the head/shower area. A single bunk

with rod stowage is tucked neatly beneath the forward

seating. While underway, the extended console offers more

protection than a conventional center console, and three

adults can shelter behind the wrap-around windshield. The

expansive flush cockpit is roomy and inviting, and the aft

seat folds out of the way for access to the integral aft swim

platform. huntyachts.com; (401) 324-4201

EVERGLADES 243SS

HUNT YACHTS 32CC


The Jupiter Marine 26FS (Forward Seating) excels as

a small-boat platform for fishing and cruising. Built in

Palmetto, Florida, the 26FS measures 26'5" LOA and has

an 8'8" beam. A 35-gallon livewell is located in the transom

and gives anglers more fishing room in the cockpit. The

transom also features a walkthrough transom door, swim

ladder and a freshwater sink for easy

clean-up. The Jupiter 26FS has four

insulated deck compartments, including

a 102-gallon macerated fish box, storage

boxes under each seat module, and

one large compartment forward of the

console. The center console includes

standard features such as a large dash

for today’s big-screen electronics, an

electric head in the console, and a cooler

under an upholstered seat with armrests

forward of the console. The Jupiter 26FS

is powered by Yamaha’s latest electronic

four-stroke F200-horsepower engines

that boost torque in low and mid-rpm

ranges for quick hole shot and responsive acceleration.

The twin F200 engine package pushes the Jupiter 26FS to

approximately 52 mph at top speed. At cruise at 35 mph

the boat achieves almost 2.5 miles per gallon and has a

range at cruise of 369 miles with its standard 150-gallon

fuel tank. jupitermarine.com; (941) 729-5000

JUPITER 26FS

The Intrepid 375 Center Console (40'3" LOA, 10'6"

beam) goes farther and faster on an innovative new

hull that features a stylish new shear, reverse transom

and wider chines. The 375 CC’s increased surface area

provides greater support and stability for today’s heavier

four-stroke outboard engines. Engine options range

from twin 350-horsepower engines to twin Seven Marine

627-horsepower outboards, with top speeds from 58 to

72 mph depending upon the engines installed.

The console with forward seating opens to port

for access to a spacious head compartment

with vanity and sink. Port and starboard

storage compartments are integral to the

gunwale and forward seating areas. Anchor

storage and windlass compartments are on

the bow beneath a foredeck hatch cover. The

inward opening side entry door is comfortably

positioned away from the engines for safe use

of the stout boarding ladder that neatly stows

beneath a hatch cover inside the hull-side door.

Owners can rig their Intrepid for the fishing, cruising

or diving experience desired. The 375 CC’s smooth, dry

ride is the result of the transverse stepped-hull design.

Vacuum bagged, hand-laid, knitted uni- and multi-

directional, fiberglass laminates, foam-cored hull sides, and

wood-free construction provide unprecedented strength,

rigidity and safety without performance-robbing weight.

intrepidboats.com; (954) 922-7544

INTREPID 375 CC


CENTER CONSOLES

The new Nor-Tech 390 Sport Open (39' LOA, 10' beam)

was debuted at the 2015 Miami International Boat Show

with even more new features than her wildly successful

predecessor, the 39 sport that launched at the same boat

show in 2011. Starting at the bow, forward seating has

been redesigned (also an option on the 340) with improved

storage access and built-in LED-lit cup holders. Forward

interior hand rails are incorporated into

the deck, the expansive sun lounge

has a fold-down arm rest and grab

rails along the side, and steps are built

in along the midship gunwales. The

starboard-side, swing-in dive door is

now standard on the 390.

The console is now designed to

accommodate two 15" screens, a 7"

engine monitor and stereo head on the

dash panel—this one is equipped with

the Garmin 8215 Electronics Package.

Under the console, a spacious cabin is

equipped with a double berth, lighting and sink (all standard),

and the following options: head and shower, 12V A/C. A

stylish, new port light has been added along with a sky light

over the head compartment, while the T-top frame has a

new swept back look with less pipe obstructions. Triple 400

Mercury Verados power this center console rocket to a top

speed of 83 mph. nor-techboats.com; (954) 232-6389

The Pursuit C280 (28' LOA, 9'6" beam) features an

expansive helm area that can accommodate multiple

MFD screens for all the information you can utilize. An

optional helm and companion flip-up seat offer the driver

comfortable operation while sitting or standing. When the

fishing begins, the stern seat quickly folds flush to the

transom. Split bow and companion seating offer additional

seating and storage as well as

unobstructed bow access for

anchoring, docking or casting.

Built at the Pursuit facility in Fort

Pierce, Florida, the C280 features

exceptional finishes and interior

highlights that include head

compartment with storage and

a freshwater sink. A tempered

glass windshield protects the

helm, which includes rod holders

and PFD storage. The C280

includes important standard

features such as a 52-gallon

lighted, recirculating livewell behind the helm seat, a

45-gallon insulated fish storage box in the transom, and twin

29-gallon insulated in-floor fish boxes. Twin Yamaha F250-hp

outboard engines power the Pursuit C280 to a top speed

of 55.1 mph and a cruising speed of 26.3 mph. Range at

cruising speed is 370 miles utilizing the boat’s 220-gallon

fuel tank. pursuitboats.com; (800) 947-8778

NOR-TECH 390 SPORT OPEN

PURSUIT C280


As Renegade Powerboats’ most popular model, the

Renegade 32 offers both high performance and luxury. The

center console cuddy (32' LOA, 8' beam) has a draft of just

22 inches, which allows the captain and his crew access

to shallow water throughout beautiful destinations such as

the Florida Keys, Bahamas or wherever the owner runs his

Renegade. With twin Mercury Verado

300-horsepower outboard engines, the

Renegade 32 reaches speeds of more

than 60 mph in seconds. The boat also

features an expansive dash panel with

room for all the latest electronics, while

in the forward cuddy there’s room for

a head and berth. The Renegade 32

features plenty of storage, including

draining compartments under seats,

under the deck, and in the transom

bulkhead, and these spaces can

function as either as fish boxes or huge

coolers. Whether your passion is fishing

or cruising, Renegade can customize

the boat to your needs. Renegade was founded in 1997 in

Hialeah, Florida, and its factory-direct, custom-build business

has grown to a product lineup that ranges from 21 to 38 feet,

including 21-, 25- and 30-foot Open center console models,

and 31-, 32-, 33- and 38-foot Cuddy center consoles.

renegadepowerboats.com; (305) 687-3700

RENEGADE 32

The 34 is a true center console sportfishing machine

with the largest cockpit in its class and a host of

amenities. Fishermen’s favorites include a transom livewell,

walkthrough tuna door and the ultimate rigging station.

In addition, there is a dedicated berth with additional

rod storage and stand-up head. Engine options on the

Regulator 34 (33'10" LOA, 10'11" beam) include twin and

triple Yamaha F300 outboards. When powered by twin

Yamaha F350 outboards, the boat runs to a

top speed of 56.7 mph and cruises at 35 mph.

Other options include a Flexiteek bracket mat

and insulated and macerated in-floor fishbox,

and the Yamaha Helm Master™ package to

make docking a breeze. Standard features

have also been enhanced to include the Fusion

700i with Bluetooth and four premium speakers

on all models, larger bow cleats, and additional

insulation on all livewells and fish boxes.

Among the most exciting introductions for the

2015 model year are three new Raymarine

Electronics Packages customized to suit the needs of

boat owners looking to optimize their offshore experience.

Each of the new packages offers the brightest and highest

resolution color displays and leading cartography, sonar

and radar. Every Raymarine package delivers access

to the electronic Regulator owner’s manual and fluid

integration with the Yamaha engines and Fusion stereo.

regulatormarine.com; (252) 482-3837

REGULATOR 34


CENTER CONSOLES

Scout Boat’s new 255 LXF (25'6" LOA, 8'11" beam) is

a forward-seating center console equipped with the Nu-

V3 high-performance, fuel-saving hull design. The LXF

Collection flaunts luxury sportfish models that showcase

a unique blend of high-performance fishing machines

combined with high-end cruisers, which offer amenities

normally found on larger boats. The 255 is the fifth model

in the LXF line accompanying the 275 LXF, 300 LXF,

320 LXF, and 350 LXF models. The 255

LXF showcases Scout’s patented T-top/

hardtop with tempered glass enclosure

and Fusion stereo w/ iPod jack or USB

flash drive. The deluxe fiberglass leaning

post offers companion seats that fold into

bolsters, and nearby is a 128-quart cooler

and four flush-mount rod holders. The boat

also features an eco-teak swim platform,

while seating in the bow is complete with

backrests. Beneath the forward seating

are fish boxes/storage that complement

an in-floor fish box. Additional standard features on the

255 include a transom door, raw water wash down,

ample rod storage throughout the boat, a fold-down stern

seat, port and starboard swim platforms, and a portside

aerated, recirculating bait well. Powered by twin Yamaha

F150-horsepower outboard engines, the 255 LXF runs

to a top speed of 55.2 mph and cruises at 33.8 mph.

scoutboats.com; (843) 821-0068

SCOUT 255 LXF

SeaVee unveiled the 370Z at the 2015 Miami Boat Show,

the latest new center console boat in its Z performance

line. Like the other Z models, the 370Z features a cross-

ventilated twin-step hull that produces greater speed and

fuel efficiency. The patent-pending hull features Speed

Rails™ that improve directional stability to keep the boat

safely tracking in the desired direction during high-speed

maneuvering. Designed as an offshore fishing machine, the

370Z has the facilities to impress the most demanding of

anglers, including large insulated

fish boxes forward with the option

for two additional insulated fish

boxes in the aft cockpit. Twin

40-gallon, longitudinal transom

live wells, one on each corner of

the transom, provide ample bait

capacity while making room for

additional aft cockpit space. A live-

well pump system keeps bait alive

and healthy by virtually eliminating

the aeration problem typically

found with stepped-hull boats. The dedicated transducer

pad allows for flush mounting large commercially rated

transducers that can mark the bottom in very deep water

while underway. Creature comforts include an optional

retractable forward bench seats or twin loungers, aft

cockpit seating, and freshwater shower and head. Powered

by triple Yamaha F350-horsepower engines, the boat runs

more than 70 mph at top speed and cruises at 45 mph.

seaveeboats.com; (305) 759-6419

SEAVEE 370Z


CENTER CONSOLES

Southport’s new 33 is available in both a family cruising

model (FE) and Tournament Edition (TE) for the hardcore

fisherman. Like her smaller sisters in the Southport line (the

27 and 29), the 33FE combines a beamy, variable deep-V

with the classic Carolina flare to deliver a dry, stable and

level ride at all throttle settings. The 33FE (32'6" LOA,

10'8" beam) is a crossover model offering the luxury and

amenities of a family cruiser without

sacrificing fishability and offshore

performance. Luxury appointments

include an adjustable-height table for

cocktails and alfresco dining that lowers

to create a spacious forward sunpad;

comfortable forward and aft seating

arrangements, and a six-foot-long berth

below the forward deck. A large coffin

box and dance-floor-sized foredeck on

the TE replace the forward FE seating.

Both models deliver a leaning post with

optional second 45-gallon live baitwell

on the TE, or an entertainment center

with grill and refrigerator on the FE. The lockable stand-

up head enclosure includes a shower, faux granite sink

and countertop. Standard twin Yamaha F300-horsepower

outboards (optional twin F350 outboards are available)

deliver good fuel economy and responsive handling

with a top speed of over 50 mph. southportboats.com;

(207) 620-7998

SOUTHPORT 33FE

The new Evinrude E-TEC G2 300-horsepower outboard engine is winding up

on more and more transoms this year. After earning the National Marine Manu-

facturer’s Association (NMMA) 2015 Innovation Award, the two-stroke engine

is proving it is powerful, reliable and clean thanks to a complete redesign. The

engine reportedly delivers 20 percent more torque, up to 15 percent better

fuel efficiency, and up to 75 percent fewer total regulated emissions than lead-

ing competitors’ four-stroke engines. How does the engine achieve such high

marks? With significantly fewer moving parts than competitive four-strokes,

the Evinrude E-TEC 300 engine weighs 558 pounds making it one of the light-

est outboards available. Another exclusive Evinrude feature is the i-Trim sys-

tem, which automatically regulates the boat’s trims for any given speed and

allows even novices to trim their boat like a pro. In addition, everything from the

gauges to the throttle has been completely redesigned to provide better com-

mand of the engine. An Icon Touch display is rugged, functional and easy to

use, and provides all the information needed while out on the water. The Icon

Touch allows you to adjust dynamic power steering modes, activate i-Trim and

toggle between foot and hand throttle controls. Customers can also choose a

myriad of colors on the Evinrude website to uniquely customize their outboard

to their boat. evinrude.com

EVINRUDE OUTBOARDS


The Striper 220 CC (21'7" LOA, 8'6" beam) offers

a sheer, modern design that’s both eye-catching and

functional. A deep, open cockpit and bow make every inch

of this boat fishing-accessible. The console and forward

door offers access to the spacious storage area below,

which can also house an optional head. At the dash, a

molded windscreen offers protection from the elements

without compromising the skipper’s line of sight.

The spacious helm is large enough for two flush-

mount 10-inch MFDs, VHF, and switches and

trim-tab controls. An optional T-top or fiberglass

hardtop is available. The 220 CC’s flared hull sides

and 14-degree transom keep the ride soft and dry

even in the roughest conditions. Riding on a V-Trac

hull, the boat features a sharp entry and 20-degree

deadrise at the transom. Moving forward into the

bow, two raised compartments that drain overboard

also function as seats. A deck insert fits flush to

make the entire bow a casting platform and doubles

as a table. Offering the largest fuel capacity in its

class (131-gallon fuel tank) and two standard in-floor

fish boxes, the 220 CC is ready, willing and able for a full

day of work—with ample room to bring home the day’s

catch. Powered by a single Evinrude 200-horsepower

E-Tec outboard engine, the 220 CC runs to a top

speed of more than 38 mph and cruises at 30 mph.

striperboats.com; (320) 632-5481

Yamaha’s jet-powered 190 FSH (19'2" LOA, 8' beam)

is available in three variations: the base model 190 FSH,

an upgraded 190 FSH Deluxe, and the flagship 190 FSH

Sport that offers many of the features of the Deluxe with

the addition of a custom T-top. Powered by Yamaha’s high-

performance 1.8L High Output marine engine, the 190

FSH runs to a top speed of more than 40 mph. Because

the engine and driveline are housed in the hull

underneath the captain’s leaning post, the boat

provides a true 360-degree experience that is

perfect for fishing. This center console includes

all the features that fishing enthusiasts want,

along with family amenities for an entire day out

on the water. The bow of the 190 FSH is large

and wide and comes with a pedestal mount and

fishing seat on the Deluxe model. The bench seat

and front of the center console lift up to reveal

a large storage area that can also serve as a

changing room or a head compartment. On the

sides of the center console are six vertical rod

holders, three on each side. The helm offers a

removable windshield, sport steering wheel, easy access

to all boat control switches, and an open area to flush-

mount electronics such as a fish finder, a GPS unit, and

other marine electronics. Yamaha’s signature two-tier swim

platform sits low at the water’s edge, and a retractable

stern ladder makes reboarding after swimming a breeze.

yamahaboats.com; (800) 962-7926

STRIPER 220 CC

YAMAHA 190 FSH


BOAT REVIEW: CENTER CONSOLES · hp outboards the boat runs to a top speed of 48 mph....

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