2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport (CCS) Boat Review
A big, powerful and sporty center console that offers a masterclass in marine engineering.
May 13, 2024
The 2024 Formula 457 Center Console Sport (CCS) is a masterclass in marine engineering, combining aesthetics, performance, and comfort in a 45-foot package that delights both the eye and the heart. This review explores its key features and performance, highlighting why it stands out in the competitive world of luxury sport boats.
Model Background
Formula Boats has been a premier powerboat builder since the 1960s with a storied past, making the company an iconic American brand. With roots in performance boats and offshore powerboat racing, the builder has more recently focused on high-performance, luxury "crossover" style family day boats and weekenders. However, in 2022, the company decided it was time to re-enter the booming center console market and announced two new models for the 2023 model year: the 387 CCF (center console fishing) and the 387 CCS (center console sport). The 457 CCS (and CCF) are expansions of this growing line up.
I first saw a mockup of the interior cabin of Formula's initial center console (the 387 CCS) when our team visited Formula Boats headquarters in Decatur, Indiana, for an episode of our Factory Fridays series featuring boat builders around the world. We learned firsthand how Formula builds full-scale mockups of their interiors before they ever start constructing the real thing. This hands-on approach sets the brand apart from many other boat manufacturers. Their engineers and designers want to experience everything before constructing the final boat, relying not just on CAD and computer imagery. Every detail on a Formula Boat is meticulously thought through, from the portholes to the railings, and the outlets to the doorways, shelves, and moldings. This same attention to detail went into the new 457 CCS as well.
Patrick Laux, the Formula Plant Operations manager, personally walked me through their manufacturing process from start to finish and I can say this: these folks put every effort into making the perfect vessel for their customers. During this visit I learned that they planned to expand their center console lineup soon, and got some sneak peeks at their plans for the Formula 457 CCS and CCF, which I knew would be game-changers. Walking the assembly line that day, we eventually saw a 500 Super Sport Crossover that had just gone through the test tanks and was being rigged with new quad 600hp Mercury V12 engines. Back in the head office, Scott Porter beamed about the brand's latest model, saying, "We're building a 50-foot boat that weighs about 48,000 lbs and runs in the upper 60s, 2,400 horsepower." He looked at me with a sly smirk and said simply, "It's neat."
It was a no-brainer for me that the company would eventually rig similar outboard engine setups on increasingly larger center consoles in their new line up. And voila, two years later, we now have the 457 CCS with triple 600s. This flexible, all-around boat with fishability and creature comforts represents a major contender in the big center console fishing boat world, as well as offering a versatile family-friendly performance boat.
Design Overview & Aesthetics
From the moment you set eyes on the Formula 457 CCS, its sleek and elegant design commands attention. Her sporty lines and overall aesthetics are the result of a collaboration between Formula's long-time designer John Adams and designer Michael Young. An aggressive yet dependable 22-degree deadrise FAS3Tech® hull gives her top-tier handling offshore and in choppy water. The boat features beautifully upholstered seats and a summer kitchen with a matching grain of Corian, providing a luxurious feel.
Above: 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the ample in-deck storage solutions to the expansive cockpit dining area, complete with a pullout seat to accommodate a large table down to her luxurious cabin below. Her sturdy hardtop offers protection from the hot sun on summer days and from rain in inclement weather, while seamlessly blending into the boat's design.
Performance and Power
The Formula 457 CCS model we tested was equipped with the triple Mercury 600hp V12 engines, which delivered impressive power and speed. The boat reached a top speed of 62 mph with ease and maintained a comfortable cruising speed of 47 mph. Formula’s commitment to performance is clear, making the 457 CCS not just a pleasure cruiser but a high-performance vessel.
Above: 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
On-Water Experience
During our sea trial, the Formula 457 CCS proved its mettle. Whether at full throttle, performing donuts, or cruising at idle, the ride remained comfortable, dry, and conversation-friendly. This performance underscores the solid build quality and engineering excellence that Formula boats are known for, making the 457 CCS a joy to ride.
Innovative Features
One of the standout features of the Formula 457 CCS is its dual boarding doors and ladders, providing easy access to the water from the swim platform. The boat also offers the added protection of an innovative and proprietary Wind-Armor™ "wind and spray" electric-powered door system that folds out on either side at the push of a button and helps make runs into wind and spray offshore more comfortable. She also boasts a power-opening forward curved glass windshield with a custom washer/wiper combo. A Seakeeper 6 stabilizer, standard in all models, ensures a smooth ride even in rough waters. The spacious storage areas, including a garage for water toys and a Kenyon grill for outdoor dining, add to its practicality and appeal.
Above: People at the helm of the 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
Comfort and Convenience
Comfort is paramount in the design of the Formula 457 CCS. The boat can comfortably accommodate the captain and six passengers under a large top with dual air conditioning systems, ensuring everyone stays cool. The helm area features three screens, 22-inch Raymarine or Garmin displays, enclosed glove boxes, and inductive phone chargers for all six bolster seats.
Above: Electric powered windshield on the 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
As mentioned, the fully enclosed windshield raises electrically, and provides ventilation when desired on hot days, as well as protection from the elements when needed. Extra cushioning on the floor and individual storage compartments under each seat enhance passenger comfort. Additionally, the front bench hides essential mechanicals, and there’s a refrigerator/freezer for added convenience.
Interior Luxury
The cabin of the Formula 457 CCS is a testament to the brand’s commitment to luxury and functionality. With 6'6" of headroom, a berth with a table and cushions tucked in a drawer under the TV, and a fully enclosed glass shower, the cabin is both spacious and comfortable. Thoughtful touches, like flush hooks for towels and clothing and inserts in the shower to prevent bottles from rattling, showcase the meticulous attention to detail.
Above: Cabin on 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
Bow and Stern Amenities
The bow of the Formula 457 CCS mirrors the creature comforts found on the aft deck. It features storage for fenders and lines, trash compartments, a sunpad with armrests for additional natural light into the cabin, and a fold-down bench seat for extra seating. An electrically rising table in the bow can be filled in with cushions to create a full sunbed. Moreover, a Rockford Fosgate head unit provides four different music zones, allowing passengers to enjoy diverse music choices throughout the boat.
Above: Bow area on the 2025 Formula 457 Center Console Sport CCS boat. Image by Formula Boats.
Conclusion
The 2024 Formula 457 Center Console Sport is an exceptional boat that seamlessly blends luxury, performance, and practicality. Whether you're looking to cruise at high speeds, entertain guests, or enjoy a day on the water with family, the 457 CCS delivers on all fronts. It’s a testament to Formula’s dedication to creating high-quality, high-performance boats that provide unparalleled comfort and enjoyment on the water. The secret behind the iconic Formula Boats name lies in an equation that starts with "The Three P's: People, Plant, and Product." The magic behind the boats begins with John Adams' designs and is guided by the Porter family's strong work ethic, dedicated staff, hands-on craftsmanship, and unwavering pursuit of quality.
Specifications:
LOA to Transom: 45'7"
LOA: 49'1"
LOA Trailered w/Triple Outboards: 49'8"/52'
Maximum Beam: 13'9"
Approximate Weight: 33,250 lbs.
Cabin Headroom: 6'6"
Fuel Capacity: 700 gallons
Diesel Generator Capacity: 35 gallons
Water Capacity: 90 gallons
Holding Tank Capacity: 35 gallons
Bridge Clearance w/mast light down: 10'2"
Bridge Clearance w/radar, mast light down: 11'5"
Bridge Clearance w/radar, mast light up: 13'
Draft: 54"
Deadrise: 22°
View Formula Boats For Sale on boats.com
