Ten Best Center Console Boats of 2023
Here are our picks for the top ten center console boats of 2023, with these models possessing top-rated features for anglers and adventurers of all kinds.
September 13, 2023
Center console fishing boats are certainly not just for anglers anymore, they've also caught the attention of speed boat enthusiasts and fellow adventure-seekers alike. Despite being initially designed for saltwater fishing, these boats offer generous deck space, sporty performance, and rugged construction that makes them perfect for a wide range of activities. These are the top ten center console boats that have captured our attention in the past year. Whether you're a fisherman, an adventurer, or simply seeking a unique boating experience, each of these models offer something special.
Above: Chilling on the Everglades 285 CC on the water. Photo courtesy of Everglades Boats.
Everglades 285CC
Measuring 28 feet and 4 inches in length with an 8-foot and 6-inch beam, the 285cc appeals to both families and avid fishermen. It features an integrated fiberglass hardtop and windshield for weather protection, along with a Garmin digital switching system for easy electronic control. You can enhance stability with an optional Seakeeper 1. Anglers will appreciate the 285cc's fishing-centric design, including a 35-gallon fish box at the transom, a clear acrylic-lidded livewell, and a generous 60-gallon in-deck fish box. Unique to this model is a rotating helm/mezzanine seat, and the spacious bow can be transformed into a casting deck or a sun pad. Powered by twin 300-horsepower Yamaha F300 outboards, the 285cc reaches a top speed of 55.4 mph and cruises comfortably at 30mph.
Above: The 2023 Valhalla V-55 cuts through the water. Photo courtesy of Valhalla Boatworks.
2023 Valhalla V-55
The newest Valhalla flagship, the V-55, brings together the energetic maneuverability and easy on-deck access you'd expect from an outboard-powered center-console with the engineering know-how, comfy living spaces, and top-notch amenities that come with a Viking convertible. But what really makes the V-55 stand out? Well, it's not just its impressive size – it's that broad 15-foot-6-inch beam. That extra width brings loads of perks: more fuel capacity, a roomy cockpit, plenty of on-deck seating, and interior spaces that leave other center-consoles in the dust. Precision-designed and meticulously crafted to make the most of Mercury's innovative V-12 600 hp outboards, which you can get in four- or five-engine setups, the V-55 is a versatile powerhouse ready to tackle all sorts of adventures on the water.
Above: The Contender 44ST glides along the water. Photo courtesy of Contender Boats.
Contender 44ST
The Contender 44 ST CC is the ultimate pick for passionate sportfishing enthusiasts. It seamlessly blends high performance and fuel efficiency while preserving the renowned Contender riding experience. With options for triple or quadruple engine configurations, this powerhouse guarantees the exhilarating speed needed to reach prime offshore fishing spots ahead of the competition. The deck space is thoughtfully designed, offering an open and uncluttered area that simplifies your fishing activities. The forward seating layout is spacious and intelligently designed, perfect for accommodating a crew of anglers working in tandem. A substantial 340-gallon storage compartment ensures you can stow plenty of gear, while other cleverly placed storage options are easily accessible. With outstanding visibility and a console layout that's a breeze to use, this boat becomes your lively and adaptable partner for all your boating escapades.
Above: The 2023 Grady-White Canyon 456 is a great family center console. Photo courtesy of Grady White.
2023 Grady-White Canyon 456
One of my personal favorites, Grady-White's reputation for quality and resale value is well-earned. The new Canyon 456, their largest creation to date, solidifies this standing. It's more than a mere center console; it's a center console yacht that's great for families. Featuring a spacious cabin with a queen berth, galley, and enclosed head with a shower, it's equipped with a Seakeeper gyro-stabilization system to minimize rocking. With four massive Yamaha F425 outboards or the upcoming 450s, it offers incredible power for an unforgettable boating experience.
Above: The 2023 Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless awaiting adventure. Photo Courtesy of Boston Whaler.
2023 Boston Whaler 280 Dauntless
Rather than focusing on a glamorous image, Boston Whaler boats are instead renowned for their unsinkable construction, and the 280 Dauntless is no exception with its glass-foam-glass sandwich. But what sets this one apart is its size, making it Whaler's largest center console. It's one of the rare boats in its category that can run on twin engines, along with a substantial 160-gallon fuel capacity, allowing it to tackle both inshore and offshore adventures. Equipped for fishing with features like a 19-gallon livewell and numerous rod holders, it also embraces cutting-edge technology, featuring digital switching controls, a top-notch stereo system, and eye-catching RGB lighting. I feel like they'll appreciate my no-nonsense description.
Above: Twin hulls on the 2023 Invincible 33 Catamaran. Photo courtesy of Invincible Boats.
2023 Invincible 33 Catamaran
The Invincible 33 Catamaran marries the best of multihulls and center consoles. Powered by a pair of 450 horsepower Mercury outboards, it can reach speeds up to 70 mph. Its construction features vacuum-infusion technology and a twin-stepped hull design, ensuring top-notch performance. For avid anglers, it boasts over 20 rod holders, a massive coffin box fishbox, and a sizeable livewell in the transom. The Invincible also boasts an ingenious hybrid hull design that adds a dash of excitement to its performance. Even when faced with tricky quartering seas, those trusty sponsons keep their cool. But here's the kicker – this hybrid hull isn't just about stability; it's about showcasing its prowess. When the water gets choppy, it handles the challenge like a true champ.
Above: The 2023 Formula 387 Center Console Sport underway. Photo courtesy of Formula Boats.
2023 Formula 387 Center Console Sport
Formula has introduced two new center console models, and the Sport variant makes our list for 2023. While designed more for entertaining than fishing, it maintains Formula's commitment to performance, reaching speeds exceeding 60 mph. The 387 CCF comes equipped with some impressive features, including standard 18-foot outriggers, twin in-floor 90-gallon fish boxes (with optional cold plates), and the choice to add four 12-volt DC outlets designed for electric deep-drop and kite reels. When you take the helm, you'll find yourself seated in the center of a trio of chairs, enjoying excellent visibility thanks to the tall, curved windshield. And for added comfort and visibility, this windshield can even be opened electronically to allow more airflow. What truly sets the 387 CCF apart is its cabin, which offers a remarkable 6 feet, 4 inches of headroom and comfortably sleeps two. Plus, there's a luxurious yacht-style head and shower compartment, a feature that's not commonly found on many center-consoles.
Above: Cruising the 2023 X Shore Eelex 8000. Photo courtesy of X Shore.
2023 X Shore Eelex 8000
In a groundbreaking move, the X Shore Eelex 8000 is the first electric boat to make our list. While it may not match the speed and range of its gasoline-powered counterparts, it represents a significant leap in electric boating technology. With a single direct-drive inboard motor and 126 kWh Kreisel lithium batteries, it can reach speeds of around 30 knots and cruise for up to two hours at lower speeds, extending its range to about 115 miles. X Shore offers various layouts, including fishing and entertainment options, catering to eco-conscious boaters.
Above: The 2023 Caymas 401 CC. Photo courtesy of Caymas Boats.
2023 Caymas 401 CC
Caymas Boats, though relatively new, keeps pushing the envelope year after year. The 401 CC, their flagship model, continues to impress in 2023. This fishing beast boasts an impressive 11'6" beam, the capacity for up to 1,800 horsepower, massive 45-gallon livewells, 3 dozen rod holders, and a whopping 460 gallons of fishbox space. The advanced Hooker sea chest system ensures efficient livewell operation. Built on the Michael Peters SVVT twin-stepped hull, this boat offers hair-raising acceleration and impressive speeds.
Above: The Cobia 350 CC ready for action. Photo courtesy of Cobia Boats.
Cobia 350 CC
The new Cobia 250CC is a center console boat that blends luxury, high-performance, and angler-friendly features into one package. This vessel is equipped with a full onboard bait-prep station, a tackle center, a secure below-deck rod holder, and in-floor fish boxes that can efficiently pump overboard. Not to mention the impressive 42-gallon twin bait tanks. What I like about this boat is that when you're not chasing the big ones, it transforms into a smooth-sailing pleasure vessel. With spacious seating for up to 11 people, including an integrated chaise lounge for two, it's the ultimate social hub on the water. Plus, there's a cleverly hidden bow table that rises electronically from the floor whenever you need it for your picnic lunch or party setup. Triple Yamaha F300NSB engines come standard, with an optional pair of Yamaha 425 XTOs putting you cruising at around 65 mph, depending on your load. The console layout is intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring you won't be fumbling around to find what you need.
