Glasstream 255 Pro-XS

The Panama City, Florida-based builder introduces the Glasstream 255 Pro-XS(25′ LOA, 8’4″ beam), perfect for tournament-style fishing and family boat rides. It features the first of the next generation, inverted stepped hull designed by A.L. Kirkland. Based on the successful 242 platform, the 255 Pro-XS is 15 inches longer in the rear cockpit and 4 inches higher in the gunwale. An aggressive forward deadrise transitions to the aft design and creates a smooth ride while delivering higher fuel economy.

The Glasstream 255 Pro-XS runs with a single 250-hp engine in the high 50 mph range and 60 mph plus with a 350-hp outboard. Forward seating and plenty of storage are now standard, and there’s also a full-sized walk-in head below the console. glasstream.com

A Can’t Miss Center Console: EdgeWater 248CX

Designed to perform with a single outboard, the EdgeWater 248CX (24’6″ LOA, 8’6″ beam) is equipped with a single, reliable Yamaha F300 four-stroke outboard. This new model features EdgeWater’s most ergonomic and sophisticated deck design for a dual console and offers redesigned bow seating with plusher amenities, including forward-facing seat backs with built-in armrests. The helm provides great sightlines and improved ergonomics for the captain and enough dash space for a 16-inch Garmin screen. The EdgeWater 248CX has a bait prep station who’s modern design offers many configurations, including a removable premium cooler storage, grill, sink, storage, and cutting board. These new additions create a more spacious cockpit with a full transom-width foldout seat while maintaining a large transom baitwell. The transom walkthrough provides easy access for watersports. Don’t miss the EdgeWater 248CX.

ewboats.com

The Bonadeo Express 45 Walkaround

Bonadeo Express 45 Walkaround

The Kevlar-infused Bonadeo Express 45 Walkaround is the new flagship of the Florida-based, semi-custom builder that lets you spec it your way.

With classic sportfisherman aesthetics, the new 45 shows off plenty of deck space and full mezzanine seating tucked under a serious tuna tower. Below the cockpit sole, you’ll find a pair of 700-quart fishboxes accompanied by an expansive center storage compartment. A dedicated mechanical area houses a diesel generator, a 700-gallon fuel tank and a Seakeeper 6 gyrostabilizer along with most of the ship’s systems.

Quad 400-hp Mercury outboards are nested behind a 72-gallon livewell, and a side door provides access to a dock or to the water for divers and swimmers. The custom interior below is a mix of traditional teak and white surfaces and offers a galley, a full head, a dinette that converts to a queen berth in the bow, and an entertainment space aft with another large berth and TV. If it gets too stuffy below, you can always sleep on the bow sunpad or ample aft and serve up some beverages and snacks at the wet bar behind the elevated helm.

The first hull is scheduled to splash July 2019.

44′ 11″ LOA, 13′ 6″ beam

bonadeoboatworks.com

Return to the Center Console Roundup

Boston Whaler 420

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. (800) 942-5379; bostonwhaler.com

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating Magazine, July 2015