Boston Whaler 285 Conquest Boat Test Notes
Jeff Hemmel provides an in-depth look at Boston Whaler's 285 Conquest.
September 21, 2011
Watch Boston Whaler 285 Conquest: Video Boat Review
Concept
- Consumer-driven remake focuses on space allotment and weather protection while retaining fish-and-cruise personality.
- Hardcore fish boat amenities, including bait prep area, dual in-floor fish boxes, 31-gallon livewell, and plenty of rod storage.
- Integrated windshield and hardtop offer superior weather protection, greater visibility.
Construction
- Unibond construction results in the solid, foam-filled core that gives Whalers their unsinkable reputation, and also dampens sound and vibration.
- Cleats and deck hardware secured into phenolic blocks, which are tapped to provide a secure hold.
- Unitized transom offers strength to support multiple four-stroke outboards.
Performance
- Top speed of 43.8 mph with twin Mercury 225 Verado outboards.
- Digital throttle and shift offer smooth, precise control.
- Best cruise of 1.3 mpg at 34.9 mph; peak fuel consumption of 46.9 gph at just shy of 44 mph.
Handling
- Soft, secure, utterly predictable ride in tough offshore conditions.
- Agile hull rivals smaller boats in calm waters.
- Digital throttle/shift allows syncing of dual controls into one single lever.
Features
- Dual port cockpit seats replace typical bench, allowing passengers to face forward when running and face each other for socializing.
- Seat backrest pivots forward to provide good spot to watch baits; footrest slides out from below.
- Cockpit sink kept shallow to serve double duty as convenient storage spot.
- Cabin space reflects usage; galley space has been reduced slightly; microwave now standard rather than stove.
- Simple conversion of forward berth; no searching for filler cushions. Mid-cabin berth open, not claustrophobic.
Read Boston Whaler 285 Conquest: Thoughtfully Revised
