These versatile new center consoles boats are making dreams come true.
One of my favorite memories after graduating college is taking an old center console with some buddies and beaching it on a sandbar somewhere in the lower Florida Keys. We pulled ice chests, metal beach chairs, fishing poles, and a hibachi grill off the 22-foot boat for a day on the sandbar, which I would later discover was Picnic Island near Little Torch Key.
The fond memory has me chuckling about how we take the benefits of current center consoles for granted. The old V-bottom had no dive door, and a grill or refrigerator cost more than the center console itself.
Today, most of those creature comforts are standard features on a few center-console boats making their debut in 2024. The bar has been raised on consumer expectations. Go out and make some memories.
The 2024 Roundup
Axopar Boats
Thanks to Axopar Boats’ modular construction, consumers can build the boat they want on the 29 Sun Top without sacrificing whether it’s an open aft deck or adding a primary cabin for overnighting. Axopar borrowed design ideas from its 22-foot and 37-foot models for the 29 Sun Top (28′ 8″ LOA, 9′ 8″ beam), flaring the bow to create larger U-shaped seating with a hi-lo table and a forward-facing sofa built into the console. The sofa lifts to reveal a cabin for storage or occasional overnighting with a toilet and foldaway sink, depending on the package selected. Axopar wastes no space on the boat with a top-loading fridge and a sink below the helm seats. The center console has U-shaped seating under the sun-top roof with a sliding canvas awning to enjoy the sun or stars. axopar.com
Marlow Prowler
The Marlow Prowler 375 Havana (37′ 6″ LOA, 11′ 8″ beam) has undergone continuous refinement since its debut in 2010. The latest version features triple Yamaha 300-hp outboards, promising speeds of up to 40 knots, according to the builder. Enhanced with a larger console compared to its original design, there’s now ample dash space to accommodate twin MFDs, engine displays, and more. The upgraded Havana also boasts two captains chairs, while the windshield effectively deflects spray, ensuring a comfortable ride at any speed. Amenities include gyrostabilization, a generator, refrigeration, livewell, and a transom door. Despite its classification as a center console open fisherman, the Havana has a full interior featuring accommodations in the V-berth, an enclosed head, facing settees, and a galley. Offering more than six feet of standing headroom and abundant natural light, the interior ensures a spacious and inviting environment, preventing any sense of confinement belowdecks. marlowyachts.com
Yamaha Marine
The new 255 FSH Sport H center console is the first Yamaha boat to come with Helm Master EX and the company’s new four-stroke, 1.9-liter High Output marine engines. The joystick control provides precise control and low-speed maneuvering around the docks. Thanks to the low profile of jet-drive engines, the transom on 255 FSH Sport H (24′ 6″ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) is wide-open for fish. Yamaha stocked the center console with fishing features including two baitwells, an insulated fish box, rod holders, tackle boxes, and a tool drawer. The helm includes a 7-inch Connext touchscreen, a 12-inch Simrad touchscreen, and push-button starting. A hardtop with integrated stereo speakers and LED lighting protects the electronics. yamahaboats.com
World Cat
World Cat’s all-new 235TE was designed for the hard-core angler and is stacked with goodies such as port and starboard 150-quart insulated fish boxes, a leaning post with rocket launchers, a 45-quart YETI cooler, and a large tackle drawer. The 235TE (22′ 7″ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) is the seventh center console in the North Carolina builder’s lineup, and the Tournament Edition model maximizes space for eight people. The port and starboard forward benches in the bow fold down, providing more casting area. With a 9-inch draft, anglers can fish inshore or opt to go offshore. The catamaran has twin 150-hp outboards (maximum 300-hp), and with a 120-gallon fuel tank delivers good range for a day of fishing. worldcat.com
Pursuit Boats
A fan favorite, the Pursuit S 378 (40′ 5″ LOA, 12′ beam) keeps its popularity because of the ability to please the entire family with its versatility to head to the beach or do some offshore fishing. Triple Yamaha 450 XTO outboards have a sweet spot at 29.6 mph with a range of 288 miles. Garmin electronics outfit the helm, and the cockpit transforms from fishing to relaxing when the aft-facing cockpit seat electrically slides out to reveal a complete entertainment center with an electric grill, fridge/freezer, and sink, or take a break from the action in the cabin below with a private head. The Pursuit S 378 has just what you need in a center console. pursuitboats.com
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Grady-White Boats
Whether it’s fishing shallow waters or spending time on a sandbar, the new 231 Coastal Explorer from Grady-White Boats has got it covered. Serious anglers will appreciate the bow and aft casting platforms, 277-quart fish box, 19 rod holders, tackle stowage, and a 25-gallon livewell. The 231 CE (22′ 7″ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) has a lockable console with a stand-up head and can also be used for bulk storage. The helm has space for two 12-inch displays that are protected by a T-top with an integrated windshield. For power, the 231 CE comes with a single 250-hp Yamaha outboard with a cruising speed of 27.9 mph and a 48.8-mph top speed. gradywhite.com
SeaVee Boats
The twin-stepped hull for SeaVee Boats’ new 400Z was honed in offshore racing, so anglers can count on getting to a fishing spot fast and efficiently. The freshened-up console on the 400Z (39′ 4″ LOA, 11′ 3″ beam) is 6 inches wider than the 390 series and has a raised helm with a dash now able to house two 24-inch displays. A forward side-sliding door provided access to the cabin, and the interior was equipped with a molded sink. Buyers can add an electrically operated toilet. SeaVee stocked the aft cockpit area with livewells, fish boxes, and stowage. The bow area includes a 161-gallon fully insulated fish box, rod lockers, and additional storage. The base model has triple 400-hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards. seaveeboats.com
Regal Boats
Regal Boats packed its new flagship 50 SAV with technology including triple 22-inch Garmin displays at the helm, a Seakeeper 6 stabilizer, FLIR night vision, and the new GarmRests that feature two Garmin displays integrated into the armrests of the captains seats. The 50 SAV (50′ 5″ LOA, 14′ 7″ beam) can be used for fishing thanks to dual pressurized livewells, outriggers, and 19 rod holders throughout the boat. When entertaining, the dual opening terrace doors greatly expand the usable cockpit space, and in the bow, a PowerShade extends from the hardtop with the touch of a button for added comfort. Below, Regal provides an aft stateroom with a king berth and a deluxe head with a walk-in shower. A large sofa can be converted into another berth. regalboats.com
Tiara Yachts
Tiara Yachts broadened the usability of the 43 LS (43′ 6″ LOA, 13′ beam) by now offering the center console with a fishing module that includes a 30-gallon livewell, a 104-quart freezer tank, rod holders, fold-down bench seat, and extra storage. While the fishing module replaces the rotating lounge, the 43 LS still has abundant seating with a rear bench built into the outdoor galley and three lounges in the bow. For those overnighting, the 43 LS can sleep four comfortably in the air-conditioned cabin that includes a private head compartment with its own shower and a VacuFlush toilet. Tiara opted for twin 600-hp Mercury Verado V12 outboards, and the boat cruises at 43.9 mph with a top speed of nearly 55 mph. tiarayachts.com
Formula Boats
The 457 Center Console Sport is the latest addition to Formula Boats’ center console line that was relaunched in 2022. The 457 Center Console (49′ 1″ LOA, 13′ 9″ beam) is the big sister to the 387 Center Console, offering greater cockpit and cabin space. Under the substantial hardtop with a full windshield are two rows of bolsters with drop-down bottoms and movable armrests. The sleek helm has room for three multifunction displays to keep an eye on the triple Mercury Marine 600 Verado outboards, which is currently the only power option for the new model. Below, the cabin boasts 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom, a head with a separate stand-up shower, a small galley, and U-shaped seating that can be converted into a berth for overnighting. formulaboats.com
Bahama Boat Works
Using the same proven conventional non-stepped hull from the original 41 Bahama, Bahama Boat Works (BBW) focused on the cockpit for the new flagship 41GT. The console features a pod-style helm for a custom look and was widened by six inches for a pair of 22-inch Garmin screens. With customers asking for more lifestyle features, BBW swapped the bench for three bucket seats and added a second row, while incorporating family-friendly features in the hardtop including a sunshade and shower. Anglers won’t be left wanting on the 41GT (41′ 3″ LOA, 11′ beam) with a 60-gallon baitwell on the transom, a livewell/dry box in the cockpit, and a fish box in the bow. The 41GT can accommodate quad Mercury outboards rated up to 1,700 horsepower. bahamaboatworks.com
Mystic Powerboats
As a custom builder, Mystic Powerboats is continually making small adjustments to its models. The M5200, which debuted in 2022, is no exception with the luxury center console yacht tabbed for a larger cabin in 2024. The XLC version moves the helm back 4 feet, creating a larger cabin with a walk-in aft suite and a head with a separate shower. The M5200 (52′ LOA, 14′ beam) has plenty of room to sit, including 11 bolster seats under the hardtop, rear- and forward-facing lounges aft, and wraparound seating in the bow with three lounge seats in the console. Whether buyers opt for four, five, or six outboards from Mercury Marine on the transom, it offers extended range thanks to a 650-gallon fuel tank. mysticpowerboats.com
Jupiter Marine
Jupiter Marine launched two new center console boats this year, the 340 LS and the 380 LS (shown). The LS series signifies a new era for Jupiter’s center consoles: “A new statement of luxury and innovation in our line,” said Bob Bissinger, sales and marketing manager at Jupiter Marine. The 380 LS (38′ 2″ LOA, 10′ 7″ beam) inherits the proven hull of the 38 yet designed with the contemporary console of a true sportfisher. It includes a three-piece enclosed glass windshield, sunroof, Fusion Apollo audio with JL speaker system, rod lockers, fish boxes, livewell, and plenty of storage. Choose triple Yamaha F300 or twin Yamaha F450 outboards with joystick and autopilot system to power up for your offshore adventure. jupitermarine.com
Stingray Boats
Stingray Boats introduced the 253CC center at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show. With a choice of twin outboards from Yamaha or Suzuki, the 253CC (25′ 3″ LOA, 9′ 1″ beam) is a fishing machine with a host of features, including an insulated fish/storage box, stainless steel rod holders, an aerated livewell, and a tackle station with a sliding cooler. The 253CC comes with a freshwater sink and a portable toilet or can be upgraded to a porcelain head. Standard features worth noting are the hardtop and Lumitec underwater lights. Stingray includes a Garmin 1243 Touch and Airmar B150M Chirp and a full stereo system. Buyers can add a second GPS screen and upgrade the stereo system. stringrayboats.com
Ranieri International
Embark on aquatic adventures with the commanding Voyager 23 S (22′ 1″ LOA, 7′ 9″ beam), the epitome of open center console boating. Its sleek design merges with spaciousness, promising unparalleled comfort and performance. Luxurious details adorn every corner, while its sturdy construction ensures reliability on every journey. Equipped with cutting-edge marine technology and versatile space, the Voyager 23 S adapts to any boating need, whether it’s an exhilarating fishing trip or a leisurely family cruise. Conquer the waves with your choice of outboard power from 140-hp to 250-hp along with the “Italian lifestyle” and confidence aboard the Voyager 23 S. ranieri-international.com
Pathfinder Boats
The 2400 TRS takes the best family and fishing features of its popular 2600 TRS and brings them together for the new Pathfinder Boats model. The 2400 TRS (24′ 4″ LOA, 9′ beam) has dedicated seating for eight people, including two at the helm with an optional hardtop. There are also options for a pump-out head and removable forward and aft shade. Anglers will appreciate the 38-gallon livewell and a fish box, both standard. Pathfinder offers a Yamaha 250XB outboard as base engine with power up to 350 horsepower. With a 300-hp Yamaha F300XSB, the center console cruises at 30.2 mph. pathfinderboats.com
Bertram Yachts
Step aboard the Bertram 39CC (40′ 3″ LOA; 13′ 3″ beam) where modern luxury and the heritage of sportfishing converge. This vessel’s expansive beam ensures stability and ample space, creating a welcoming environment for family and friends alike. Designed with the passionate angler in mind, she features a fully equipped cockpit with insulated fish boxes, rod holders, and optional rocket launchers. With standard triple Mercury Verado 350s, she’s ready for any offshore challenge. The Bertram 39CC offers abundant seating and comforts inviting everyone to find their perfect retreat. Join Bertram’s legacy of embracing a life of adventure, where every voyage is a chance to create unforgettable moments on the water. bertram.com
Aquila Power Catamarans
Aquila touts the new 47 Molokai as a luxury catamaran with serious fishing chops. It’s hard to argue when the 47 Molokai (49′ 4″ LOA, 14′ 7″ beam) comes with a hardtop reinforced for outriggers and custom towers, a pair of insulated 74-gallon coffin boxes, and 4-foot fish boxes on each side of the console. The center console catamaran is powered by twin 600-hp or quad 400-hp Mercury Verado outboards and has a 1,048-gallon fuel tank for far-flung fishing journeys. For overnighting, the 47 Molokai has a full-size cabin with a queen-size berth and a head and shower. Aquila equipped “The Big Kahuna” with seven helm seats over two rows and air conditioning for hot summer days. aquilaboats.com
Blackfin Boats
The 400CC is the new flagship of the Blackfin Boats line led by renowned naval architect Michael Peters. From the dual-row, triple heated helm seats to the helm stocked with Garmin and FLIR products, the 400CC (39′ 10″ LOA, 12′ beam) is for the owner willing to spare no expense. The cabin comes with air conditioning and includes a forward berth, enclosed shower, a head, and a sink. Angler-friendly features include removable transom seating, a dynamic aft station, in-floor fish boxes, a 70-gallon baitwell, and ample rod stowage in the gunwales and cabin. With quad 400-hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards, the 400CC cruises at 45.4 mph and tops out at 71 mph. blackfinboats.com
Honda Seabrook
Honda Marine partnered with Scout Boats to offer the Honda Seabrook Series that includes a Seabrook Center Console powered by a Honda Marine BF150 iST outboard. With room for seven people, the Seabrook Center Console (19′ 5″ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) has a two-person helm and a dash that comes standard with Honda’s HD-4 Multifunction Color Display, a 9-inch Garmin Sonar/GPS display, and a Garmin Fusion stereo with four speakers. Dometic supplied the BayStar hydraulic steering and SeaStar trim tabs. The center console is offered in a base, sport, and fishing package. The fishing package adds a T-top, a battery charger, and more. Other standard fishing features include an aerated baitwell, four rod holders, and an Igloo Marine Ultra cooler. marine.honda.com
Everglades Boats
Everglades Boats’ fans now have the 315cc and 335cc when shopping for new center console boats. Both models are built using the Rapid Molded Core Assembly Process (RAMCAP) and are unsinkable thanks to high-density structural foam, giving boaters peace of mind going offshore. The 315cc (31′ 6″ LOA, 10′ 4″ beam) comes standard with a fiberglass hardtop, several fish boxes, and a finished head compartment with a porcelain head and a sink with a shower head. The 335cc (32′ 4″ LOA, 10′ 8″ beam, shown) mixes fishing and entertaining with the choice of new rear-facing mezzanine seats or a fish station. Other upgrades include an updated dash for larger display options and a wider dive door. For power, Everglades offers either twin 400-hp Mercury outboards or twin 450-hp Yamaha outboards, both with joystick piloting. evergladesboats.com
Caymas Boats
The 30 CT power catamaran (LOA 30′ 6″, beam 10′ 8″) floats on Ride Dynamic Ventilated Stepped semi-asymmetric hulls and with its aggressive bow flair, anglers can fish in comfort through challenging sea conditions. It comes with two midship insulated compartments for fish or gear with Whale Gulper Grouper macerator pumps. The transom houses a standard pressurized 65-gallon livewell with an acrylic lid and high-speed pickup with options to plumb two 25-gallon wells outboard of the center well. The leaning post has five rod holders, a custom tackle and tool system, and tackle and leader storage. The 30 CT features chaise lounge seating and a flat deck that allows for unobstructed movement from stern to bow. The helm’s dash accommodates two 17-inch screens. Options include Mercury joystick or Yamaha Helm Master controls and many upgrades to complete your preferences. Twin Mercury 300 Verados can reach 58 mph, and a cruise at 40 mph gives you 1.5 mpg. caymasboats.com
ArrowCat Marine
The 20cc is the only center console model from a lineup of express cruisers by ArrowCat Marine. Built upon a proven hull design to excel in stability and fuel-efficient performance, this center console has all the essentials and is perfect for first-time buyers or seasoned boaters. The 20cc (19′ 4″ LOA, 8′ 4″ beam) is easy to trailer, use, and maintain because of its size. It is intentionally simple and invites customization, so you can personalize it as you like over time. Its simplicity belies its capability. Stainless steel hardware, 100 percent composite construction, and power by twin outboards make it a very versatile choice. arrowcat.com
Wellcraft Boats
Wellcraft Boats retooled a trio of new center console boats in its popular Fisherman series. Dubbed the 3-Series, the T-top and console are at the heart of the redesign for the 223 Fisherman (22′ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam), 243 Fisherman (24′ 4″ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) and 263 Fisherman (26′ 4″ LOA, 9′ beam). The cabin’s front-entry now has a lateral door to access the compartment that comes standard with a portable head or a porcelain toilet for an upcharge. Below the dual helm seats, Wellcraft added space for a cooler and provided additional stowage. The transom includes a door, a bench that stows away, and a baitwell. Wellcraft offers the 3-Series with outboard power from Mercury Marine or Yamaha Marine. wellcraft.com
Scout Boats
Scout Boats has been busy introducing three models in the last six months. The South Carolina builder’s latest model is the inshore/offshore crossover, the 261 XSS, that made its debut at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show. Standards include a large casting deck fore and aft, aerated baitwells under the transom, and a fiberglass hardtop with an integrated acrylic windshield. The 261 XSS (26′ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) is available with Scout’s new Sport Tower upper station that includes full controls. Other options include a portable toilet, Power-Pole, and a raw and freshwater washdown. Scout offers the model with a single outboard from Mercury or Yamaha up to 400 horsepower. scoutboats.com
Cobia
The Cobia 301 CC (29′ 5″ LOA, 9′ 10″ beam) has everything you need and more in a center console: an inward-opening side door for hauling aboard the big ones, easy entering and exiting while diving, and simplified dockside boarding. Plus, there’s a roomy cockpit and a tackle station with freshwater sink and rigging station. The console situates all operational controls and screens perfectly to maximize form and function, while the dash can be stylishly color-matched to the hull. Combine all this with popular features like the electric bow table and the hull’s silky smooth ride, and you’ll see why the 301 CC stands atop its class. cobiaboats.com
Bluewater Sportfishing Boats
The new Bluewater 25T uses the same proven running surface as the Bluewater 2550 and builds upon the legendary model with a redesigned console and flat deck from bow to stern. Bluewater Sportfishing Boats upgraded the upholstery, hatches, and more on the Bluewater 25T (28′ LOA, 8′ 5″ beam) to deliver a boat that can handle offshore conditions. Standard fishing features include dual 24-gallon pressurized livewells, a fully insulated coffin fish box, and abundant rod storage. Bluewater offers a new all-fiberglass leaning post with flip-up bolsters, as well as dual screens at the helm from either Simrad or Garmin. The 25T is available with single or twin outboards from Mercury, Suzuki, and Yamaha. bluewatersportfishingboats.com
Yellowfin
The Yellowfin 36 Offshore received a major update for 2024 with the South Florida builder extending the console, adding a forward lounger with insulated stowage below as a companion to the in-floor fish box. Yellowfin took the opportunity to add more rod holders to the lounger in front of the console and around the bow seating. The updated helm features a windshield, new upholstery, and Yellowfin removed exposed hardware. The 36 Offshore (36′ 8″ LOA, 10′ beam) has a new-look transom with the builder removing a door and redesigning the livewell. Available in twin or triple outboards, the 36 Offshore has a 477-gallon tank and can go deep offshore. yellowfin.com
Hammer Yachts
The HammerCat 45 (45′ LOA, 13′ 10″ beam) is the second model for the boutique builder, Hammer Yachts. The bigger sister to the HammerCat 35, the 45-foot catamaran features a sweeping Carolina bow and can carry 16 people to go diving or fishing. The HammerCat 45 can also be customized as a day-boat/cruiser or a superyacht tender. Standards include a queen-size berth with a separate head, shower, and sink in the console. Anglers will love the pair of 260-quart fish boxes and a combined 800 quarts of dry storage below. The power catamaran with twin 600-hp engines will top 55 mph. It’s also offered with a pair of 440-hp inboard diesels with stern drives. hammeryachts.com
Tidewater Boats
If getting to a fishing spot fast is a priority, the Tidewater Boats’ 3100 Carolina Bay is a 70-mph boat with twin 400-hp Mercury Marine V10 Verado outboards. The 3100 Carolina Bay (31’ 1” LOA, 10’ 2” beam) delivers a dry ride even in snotty conditions thanks to a 17-degree deadrise and a Carolina flare. A T-top with a full glass enclosure protects the pilot and passengers as well as the Garmin electronics package, which includes dual screens and radar. The center console has a 20-gallon bow livewell and a 30-gallon Aquarium livewell in the leaning post with a tackle station. To make boarding easier at the docks, Tidewater created an actuating step. tidewaterboats.com
Sōlace Boats
Sōlace Boats founder Stephen Dougherty said the 37 CS was among his favorite boats to design. Based on a twin-stepped hull and variable deadrise, the 37 CS (37’ 8” LOA, 11’ beam) is paired with twin or triple outboards from Mercury or Yamaha. Thanks to a 512-gallon fuel tank, the center console has excellent range. Dougherty stocked the 37 CS with must-have features including two 40-gallon livewells, a 44-gallon transom fish box, and two fish boxes in the floor totaling 113 gallons. Additional items include dedicated rod and gaff storage in the cabin, nine transom-mounted rod holders, and a tackle storage and faucet in the workstation. Owners can choose a single or dual Garmin screens for the helm. Sōlace offers the model with an optional marlin tower. solaceboats.com
Valhalla Boatworks
Valhalla Boatworks is off to a busy 2024 with the release of the V-28 Bay and V-29 Hybrid. While the models are now the smallest in Valhalla’s lineup, which spans 28 to 55 feet, they are as feature-rich as their bigger siblings. The V-29 Hybrid (29′ 6″ LOA, 9′ 8″ beam) is a hard-core fishing boat that can also take family and friends to the sandbar or cruise to a local restaurant. Fishing goodies include dual 26-gallon livewells on the aft casting deck, two insulated in-deck fish boxes in the cockpit, and top-self electronics options from Simrad, Garmin, and FLIR for the helm. The V-28 Bay (28′ 1″ LOA, 9′ 3″ beam, above) has many of the same features as the V-29, but a big difference is the 28-footer draws 18 inches, making it ideal for shallow-water bays. valhallaboatworks.com
Robalo Boats
Robalo Boats launched the all-new R230 and redesigned the 246 Cayman for the 2024 model. The R230 (23′ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam, above) features a Hydro Lift multi-angle hull design, which maximizes the performance of the single 250-hp Yamaha outboard. A fiberglass hardtop and aluminum-framed windshield comes standard, as well as a digital gauge display and premium sound system. Among the updates for the 246 Cayman (24′ 6″ LOA, 9′ beam) are a new deck design, additional seating options, and stowage. A pair of insulated livewells in the cockpit along with a 50-liter carry-on cooler provide options for cold storage and rod storage. The 246 Cayman is offered with a single Yamaha F300X outboard. robalo.com
Sailfish Boats
Making its debut in summer 2024, Sailfish Boats’ 232 Center Console is all about ease of use. From the port and starboard transom entries to the 108-gallon fuel tank that means fewer trips to the fuel dock, the 232 Center Console (23′ LOA, 8′ 6″ beam) appeals to anglers and families alike. Sailfish includes versatile twin 12-gallon livewells under the rear bench seat, and nearby is a 65-quart Engel cooler below the leaning post. A full-height windshield is built into the T-top frame, and head access is from the front of the console. The 232 CC uses Sailfish’s Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull system and comes standard with a 200-hp outboard. Buyers can upgrade to 250-hp with a choice of Suzuki, Yamaha, or Mercury. sailfishboats.com
-by Gregg Mansfield
