2020 Center Console Buyers Guide

2020 Center Console Buyers Guide

Our Center Console Buyers Guide has options for everyone.

Center consoles were the hottest boat introductions this past spring as builders launched versatile models in all shapes and sizes. The theme this year continued to be “everything for everyone” as most boats are now asked to do double and triple duty from specific species fishing to general family adventure. The latest designs are feature-laden and thoughtfully laid out so whether they’re taking a bunch of buddies fishing, tubing with the kids, or harbor entertaining with friends, they can do just about anything. Imagine a quiet morning on glassy water with coffee in hand or a spirited fight with the big one on the line in lumpy seas. Any way you spend it, time on a center console is the first step to becoming well centered. Enjoy our Center Console Buyers Guide!

Center Console Roundup

Center Console Roundup

Our Center Console Roundup has options for everyone.

Far beyond the basics, today’s center consoles offer features to make boating more fun. And, in some cases, more luxurious. The evolution of the age-old, center console design continues to improve its versatility and usability for a wide range of watersport enthusiasts.

Center console boats elicit images of everything from a single-engine, 20-foot runabout to a 60-foot, carbon-infused, luxury fishing machine with quad outboards dominating the transom. Each year, builders school us on how versatile center consoles are, how much they’ve evolved and what models technically fall under that moniker.

Your father’s center console has morphed, and it’s not hard to find upscale features offered as standard equipment. Multiple and larger engines, gyrostabilizers, air-conditioned cockpits, side gates cut into gunwales, full outdoor galleys, and complete interior accommodations are just some of the evolutions you can have on what used to be a fairly utilitarian design. That means these boats are asked to do double and triple duty as fishing boats, dive boats, tow boats, weekenders, and crowd-pleasing entertaining platforms.

Powerful, quiet, fuel-sipping propulsion has enabled the center console to go just about anywhere, get there quickly and maybe even stay the weekend due to numerous lux amenities so cruisers won’t feel like they’re camping. Whether you’re an old salt with multiple center consoles under your belt or haven’t considered one yet, check out some of the latest designs. Maybe one of these new models in our Center Console Roundup will leave you perfectly centered.

Scout 235 XSF

Scout 235 XSF

Built upon Scout’s NuV3 hull design, the  Scout 235 XSF offers a standard powder-coated T-top hardtop with LED spreader lights fore and aft and a fully integrated windshield.

The 235 XSF’s recommended 250 hp can bump up to a max 300 hp to hit a top speed in the mid-50-mph range with a cruising speed in the low 30-mph range. The cruising range at 31 mph is 348 miles using the 100-gallon fuel tank.

A notable feature: Scout did away with the splash well at the transom by extending the outboard shaft that allows for a level platform across the entire swim deck.

Options include power-assist hydraulic steering, two LED underwater lights, 15-foot outriggers, rocket launchers, Edson steering wheel, self-contained porcelain head or Porta-Potti, and a removable teak bow table that makes the 235 XSF both fishing and family friendly.

23’8″ LOA, 8’6″ beam

scoutboats.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup.

Rambler 38

Rambler 38

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens, the Rambler 38 offers refined hull lines and a sophisticated design blend. This center console is fast, has an instinctive feel, and is ready to handle the open seas. To enhance time on the water, an innovative track system gives the owner the ability to transform the aft-deck layout from the ultimate weekend warrior fishing boat to an entertainment space with table seating for a cocktail cruise with family and friends.

At the helm, twin 22-inch MFDs come standard and provide access to chartplotters, engine system status, tank monitoring, entertainment, and lighting systems through a fully integrated interface.

The Rambler 38 has comfortable accommodations. Those include a full galley, separate head with shower and queen-sized berth for comfortable overnights. She’s powered by quad Mercury 350-hp outboard engines. Additionally, you’ll get where you’re going quickly. Her top speeds reach 60 mph. 

38’3″ LOA, 11’10” beam

rambleryachts.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup.

 

Pursuit DC 365

The Pursuit DC 365 (37’11” LOA, 12′ beam) features instrumentation and controls at the
helm that are ergonomically engineered. An optional Garmin electronics suite makes the DC 365 a joy to operate. The cabin is easily accessible with a single-piece fiberglass door and features solid wood accents with modern finishes, a forward berth, and a comfortable aft berth. You can overnight in your favorite cove with essential amenities including A/C, standup head, and microwave.

Other features include a large tempered-glass windshield with a walkthrough, wide pathways from bow to stern and plenty of large storage compartments to hold dive tanks, a portable cooler and fishing rods. Powered by triple Yamaha F300s, the DC 365 delivers a top-end speed of 50-plus mph while cruising at approximately 35 mph. Expect to get 1.0 MPG under normal operating conditions.

pursuitboats.com

Return to the 2018 Miami Boat Shows 

Buddy Davis 42 Center Console

Davis Yachts debuts a serious fishing vessel with clean, classic lines and impressive performance.

A single glance at the new 2017 Buddy Davis 42 Center Console reveals a yacht that holds true to the traditional Davis pedigree. This venerable, well-respected brand, part of the New Jersey-based Egg Harbor Yacht Group, has steadily carved out space for itself within the custom-built boating market. The 42 CC is the latest addition to a lineup that includes four center consoles that begin at 28 feet. A component of the appeal of Davis builds, apart from their notorious strength and performance, is that they are all manufactured in a single factory located in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey. A streamlined, horizontally integrated construction process translates to boats that are designed, built, finished, and outfitted all in the same location for production consistency rarely found in other boats at this range.

Davis hulls are recognized by their Carolina flare, which gives the Buddy Davis 42 CC a narrow front that provides better piercing through water, keeps spray to a minimum and provides additional buoyancy for a dry ride. “One walk down a dock with 100 sportfishing boats and you can easily pick out a Davis. It’s simply beautiful to look at from any angle,” says Dr. Ira Trocki, owner of the Davis brand and adds that Davis hulls are known for their legendary ride. Indeed, a substantial keel and skeg prevent wandering and pounding; the boat easily slices through waves and tracks effortlessly. A 24-degree deep-V hull works to soften seas once offshore, but also provides a modest amount of draft that will give returning crew confidence at inland ports.

Performance Plus

The 42 CC shares its hull with the already successful 28 and 34 center console but boasts an all-new custom deck and helm. “True to the Davis pedigree, hulls are laid up with only solid fiberglass below the waterline, with various composite core materials used in the hull sides, deck, superstructure, and interior to gain strength and stiffness while reducing weight gain. A new Davis Yacht will represent all the style, detail and engineering of a custom yacht with all the benefits of intelligent production,” said Bob Weidhass, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Egg Harbor Yacht Group. A wide 12’ 6” beam allows for a roomy helm area packed with creature comforts that you won’t find on other bare bones, fishing-first type center consoles. Well thought-out details, such as cooling cup holders in the helm, can be appreciated by the captain and crew alike.

Triple caramel-colored helm chairs span the helm area. Their rich coloring echoes the styled piping that runs around the interior perimeter of the vessel. Fold-down footrests offer both comfort and security. A polished chrome steering wheel rests in front of three 16” displays, all melded together seamlessly and providing the illusion of a singular, ultra-wide panel. Other premium electronics include a marine stereo system with eight premium speakers and a subwoofer. The helm also allows for USB connection for additional functionality.

Behind the helm chairs, a spacious countertop easily transforms into a prep station complete with electric grill, sink, refrigerator, and utensil drawers. For owners who prefer to entertain less and fish more, tackle and tray storage compartments are also an option. Plenty of storage abounds in the form of recessed storage lockers throughout the boat, and optimally located grab rails offer safety. A Seakeeper system can be installed for even great stability.

The Buddy Davis 42 CC comes with a standard power option of triple Yamaha V8s at 350-hp each. Need to get to the canyons faster? Davis Yachts offers a quad configuration of Yamaha V8s with 300 or 350 horsepower for 60+ mph speed. And even while these power options yell performance and power, the vessel’s relatively light displacement equates to remarkable efficiency. These savings in miles per gallon add up quickly, especially when making long runs offshore.

Creature Comforts

The 42 CC offers much more than superior handling and ride. It’s also a high-performance fishing vessel capable of tackling almost any situation. With an agility that belies its 42-foot length, the boat shows off its variety of hardcore angling amenities once offshore. The 42 CC rises to the occasion to meet a divergent set of fishing needs (and wants).If you’re headed for the shallow backwaters where fly-fishing abounds or to deep canyons miles offshore where tuna congregate, the 42 CC is built to do it all.

Buddy Davis prides themselves on boats that are designed to accommodate even the most demanding of fishermen and women, with built-in features from bow to stern. Insulated in-floor fish boxes hold your catch of the day, appointed with a macerator pump out. Meanwhile, dual illuminated livewells at the transom offer both convenience and a nice aesthetic touch. Ample rod storage can be found throughout the vessel, as well as below the gunnel for ease of access. A starboard dive door also comes standard.

Other creature comforts on the Buddy Davis 42 CC include premier forward seating in the bow, complete with lounge-style seating, storage areas, and molded bucket holders. Fold the aft seating up and out of the way while not in use. Give yourself easier access to the transom during peak fishing times.

Below deck, a surprisingly spacious cabin offers accommodations for four, complete with elegant cherry wood interior. Air conditioning helps keep the heat at bay, and a large flat-screen TV offers premium entertainment options during downtime. A full galley has a cooktop, microwave, and refrigerator, and the head contains a separate shower stall.

Like every production Buddy Davis model, the 42 CC is customizable. That includes hull color, tower configuration or fishing options. Build the 42 CC to any specification. Furthermore, the boat continues the tradition of high-quality performance boats that have built the brand’s reputation. The Buddy Davis 42 CC is a serious contender for any offshore and bay fisherman.

Specifications

LOA: 42’
Beam: 12’ 6”
Draft: 2’ 5”
Displacement: 19,320 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 600/62 U.S. gals.
Power (standard): Triple Yamaha V8 @ 350-hp each
MSRP: Inquire

CONTACT
Egg Harbor Yachts, Inc.
801 Philadelphia Ave
Egg Harbor City, NJ 08215
(609) 965-2300

For more info on the 42:  buddydavisboats.com/2017-42-center-console/
 or buddydavisboats.com/

By Susanna Botkin Southern Boating May 2017

Top Ten Stories of 2016

A round-up of our most popular web stories in 2016.

From gadgets and gear to destinations and DIY, SB&Y covered a myriad topics in 2016. It was a historic year for the marine industry: think Cuba, changing marine regulations, new boats, burgeoning technologies, record-setting boat shows and so much more.

Boats were king for Southern Boating this year. But destinations and a handy guide to rescuing a submerged outboard weren’t far from the top. Readers flocked to our stories on Bimini as well as our storied round-ups. Take a look back at the year’s most popular stories and remember why they made you read on the first time.

Happy New Year, from us to you! May the year be filled with warm days on the water, cold drinks, and that Southern Way of Life.

(Use the arrows left and right to see the Top Ten Stories of 2016)

Bimini Weekend

This takes it back (throwback!) to an article published in the 2014 magazine. No matter how much time passes, Bimini never loses the allure of it’s blue waters, warm winds and unparalleled possibilities for exploration. One destination, two islands: no wonder the magic never wears off for our readers.
southernboating.com/bimini/

Grand Banks’ GB60

A short, sweet and simple review of this Grand Banks’ was immensely popular. This  65-foot cruiser has a wide beam and shallow draft– perfect for any cruising adventure! southernboating.com/grand-banks-gb60/

 Downeast Buyers Guide

The first of two round-ups to make it into the top ten. Our Downeast Buyers Guide featured 16 stunning “downeast” style boats. These classic beauties are definitely a must-see. southernboating.com/downeast-buyers-guide/

Bimini: where folklore meets luxury

Bimini part II. A mere 50 miles from Florida’s coast, this Bahamian Island is a unique blend of natural beauty, strange mystical tales, and new luxurious resorts. The lure and lore of Bimini clearly never disappoints!
southernboating.com/hilton-at-resorts-world-bimini/

Small Generators

Small but mighty! This was our most popular technical article in 2016. A true testament to the power of generators and a handy guide that was revisited (and revisited and revisited).
southernboating.com/small-generators/

Find Your Center (Console)

Round-up number two. Arguably the most popular boat model on the market right now, the center console style is taking boating by storm. Varying sizes, shapes and style make center consoles versatile and customizable. We’ve made it easy to find your center console with 28 different models. Find your center.
southernboating.com/find-your-center/

Marlow Mainship 37

The Marlow Mainship 37 is a speedy and seaworthy trawler. Innovation, classic lines, and a dash of David Marlow-esque influence make this trawler a can’t miss. A hit with readers then and now.
southernboating.com/marlow-mainship-37/

Dunked Outboard Rescue

Once in every boat owner’s life, it’s likely to happen. You dunk the outboards. But don’t fret– it can be saved. Readers flocked like seagulls to this DIY story about fixing a common mistake.
southernboating.com/dunked-outboard-rescue/

Swimsuit 2016

No surprises here. Consistently a cruiser favorite, our annual Swimsuit issue was a hit online too.
southernboating.com/swimsuit2016/

Hatteras 45 EX

Taking the top spot for 2016: The Hatteras 45 EX! The readers have spoken– Hatteras has created a fun, easy to operate, great handling boat. Cruise with the family, drop a fishing line with the guys or gals, or just lie at anchor with your favorite book/movie/sunset view, etc, etc. This boat delivers.
southernboating.com/hatteras-45-ex/

Don’t Miss: Midnight Express 34 Sportfish/Tender

The new Midnight Express 34 Sportfish Tender (34′ LOA, 11′ beam) is designed for fuel efficiency, onboard comfort and high performance. Her 11-foot beam provides stability and a large amount of space without compromising efficiency and speed. The boat’s hull and deck are fully infused and cored to reduce weight while improving strength, which results in higher cruising fuel economy.

The 34′ Sportfish/Tender tops 60 mph with twin 300-hp outboards and has a cruising range of 350 miles at 35 mph. A proprietary bow design offers a significantly drier and more comfortable ride. midnightboats.com

Don’t Miss: Jupiter 25 Bay

The all-new Jupiter 25 Bay offers cutting-edge performance and styling typical of a Jupiter Marine build. The boat features the amenities of a traditional bay boat while adding functionality with higher gunnels, flush decks, voluminous tournament live wells, and storage often found on larger offshore center consoles.

The Jupiter 25 Bay (26’1″ LOA, 8’6″ beam) features all-around versatility with its shallow 14-inch draft that delivers backwater and offshore performance. The ergonomically designed center console has an appealing helm area with owner’s choice of factory-installed towers and dual-screen electronics. The standard built-in center console seat incorporates a 130-quart cooler under the cushion. A 100-gallon fuel tank offers plenty of range. With an optional Yamaha F300 engine, the 25 Bay has a top speed of 55 mph.   jupitermarine.com

Boston Whaler 230 Outrage

The surprisingly roomy Boston Whaler 230 Outrage center console (23′ LOA, 8’6″ beam) joins sister models: 330, 280 and 250. By pushing the coaming around the bow further outboard, Boston Whaler’s engineers maximized floor space, which contributes to the sense of stability and security for passengers in the bow. An ergonomically pleasing layout offers a full 360 degrees of walkaround and a standard head in the console. At the helm, a darker console face reduces glare, and an intuitive control panel with optional Raymarine E95 touchscreens provide seamless command. A single Mercury Verado outboard engine from 225 to 350 horsepower provides power, and the deep-V hull with full-length lifting strakes and a noticeable flair in the bow delivers a dry ride. bostonwhaler.com

Wellcraft 242 Fisherman

The Wellcraft 242 Fisherman (24’4″ LOA, 8’6″ beam) is available with three distinct packages and seven color schemes to meet any fisherman’s tastes and needs. Built in Cadillac, Michigan, the base 242F includes a host of standard features, including six gunwale-mounted rod holders, aft rod holders, gunwale rod storage, leaning post, and port and starboard bluecoat baitwells/livewells with lights and timers.

Ample storage in the 242F’s bow includes port and starboard fish boxes. There is an enclosed changing room with a head in the console pod for convenience. Add an optional fiberglass T-Top or deluxe T-Top to complete the package. For comfort and enjoyment for the entire family, opt for the Family Package: a bow table, forward facing backrests, bow backrests and cushions, bow fill-in cushion, and aft backrests.

For the ultimate fishing machine, there’s the Scarab Offshore Package: an upgraded leaning post and interior, helm floor pad, eye-catching Scarab Offshore graphics, and an aggressive Tri-Tone Gel Coat scheme. Powered by engine packages ranging from a single 250-hp to twin 200-hp outboards, the 242F reaches top speeds of 53-56 mph and cruises at 32 mph with a range of 400 miles.

wellcraft.com; (231) 775-1351

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016

 

Stuart Boatworks 27

The new Stuart Boatworks 27 Center Console was built after the success of the improved Stuart 26. After building 22 of the company’s 26 models, the design team went back to the drawing board, combined customer feedback with its own research, added new features and developed a new, larger head console with plenty of storage.

Based in Stuart, Florida, the builder added two rod locker hatches in the rear with more than 10 feet of optional storage outboard of the stringers. Stuart Boatworks can custom design the space for different needs, ranging from rod storage, pole spears, gaffs, mops, and dive tanks.

All the way forward, the new 27 design adds nearly a foot to the overall inside area, which provides more room in the bow and forward seating area. Moreover, about five inches was added to the overall shear from midship to the bow area resulting in a more attractive profile. The 27 Center Console achieves a top speed of 45 mph with a single 300-hp outboard engine but can be outfitted with twin 150- to 300-hp outboard engines.

stuartboatworks.com; (772) 600-7121

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016

Mako 334 CC

Mako’s new 334 CC (33’4″ LOA, 9’10” beam) is designed for anglers seeking advanced design and sportfishing features as well as creature comforts and state-of-the-art technology. With a ring-deck design, a port tuna door, massive amounts of storage, and a triple-outboard capacity of 1,050 horsepower, the Mako 334 CC was built to be an offshore predator.

Mako is part of the Tracker Marine Group, and the Mako 334 CC features an aggressive deep-V hull with notched transom and high-speed raw water pickup. The console comes with Mercury Joystick Piloting, Garmin electronics, and a Fusion UD750 stereo. Other features include a forward cushioned seat with a cooler, a folding aft bench seat, walk-in freshwater head, leaning post with a freshwater sink, port and starboard aft fish boxes with Gulper Macerators, an aft port tuna/dive door, and stowable dive ladder, and two 34-gallon pill-shaped baitwells. The innovative design is available in two models: the Bluewater Family Edition and the Sportfish Special Edition.

mako-boats.com; (855) 804-8402.

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016

The Jupiter 30HFS

Jupiter’s new 30 Hybrid Forward Seating model (29’6″ LOA, 9’4″ beam) combines the best of a serious fishing machine with all the amenities of a luxurious cruiser. The 30HFS comes equipped with Yamaha’s 300-hp F300 four-stroke outboards, runs to a top speed of 57 mph and cruises at 35 mph. The Jupiter 30HFS 2016 design provides the ability to comfortably fish or stand all the way forward without giving up bow seating. New on the 30HFS: freshwater sink in the head, larger lockable rod lockers, updated console face, and a newly designed dash switch panel.

Fishing features include a 45-gallon sky blue lighted livewell with a clear lid to keep baits pressurized while enroute to the fishing grounds. Flush-mounted cabinets with tackle drawers to port and removable Plano boxes to starboard keep everything within arm’s reach. In-deck lockable rod storage on either side of the console can house up to four rods each to keep the cockpit clutter free. The console has room for twin 16-inch MFD screens and a dedicated spot for a VHF command mic. A 120-gallon macerated fishbox in the cockpit provides plenty of room for the day’s catch. The Jupiter 30HFS’s seating area area can be converted into a fully-cushioned sunpad with optional filler pieces and removable backrests.

jupitermarine.com; (941) 729-5000

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016

The Invincible 39 Open

Invincible 39 Open (39’2″ LOA, 11′ beam) runs on a Michael Peters-designed hull form with the patented SVVT design, which provides an exceptionally low drag coefficient that aids in the boat’s overall excellent seakeeping ability. When powered with triple 350-hp outboard engines, the 39 Open runs in the low 70-mph range and achieves excellent fuel efficiency at a cruise of 45 mph, getting 1.2 mpg.

The Opa-Locka, Florida-based builder’s 39 Open features amenities for both anglers and families, all designed for a great day on the water. The side-entry console provides ample room below for the head/shower combination as well as many custom additional seating possibilities. The helm and dash area is more than large enough for just about any combination of electronic equipment and is configured custom for each client. The hull-side dive door with built-in ladder offers easy boarding and debarking for sandbar days or when diving and also aids when boarding the boat at the dock.

The flush-mounted windlass system is a great option that doesn’t affect the sleek lines of the Invincible 39 Open. An optional bow thruster gives the operator additional confidence in tight docking situations. Each Invincible 39 Open is built to the customer’s exact specifications, giving every boat its own individual identity. invincibleboats.com; (305) 685-2704

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine July 2016

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