Grady-White Boats announces the promotion of Todd Leggett to Director of Sales and Customer Relations. In his new position, Leggett will manage all sales operations and oversee customer service policies, systems, and initiatives. His most recent role as Dealer and Customer Relations Manager, paired with his extensive knowledge of Grady-White Boats gained from a more than 30 year career with the company, makes him well suited for this new position. Leggett began his Grady-White career in 1994 in production, before joining the engineering team. After working on all aspects of the boats from the ground up in engineering, he transitioned to sales and customer relations. As Director, Leggett will report to Kris Carroll, President, who states, “Todd has a long history of supporting our incredible dealer network and working with our valued customers to make them happy. His shared passion for delivering the ultimate boating experience to every Grady-White owner will reinforce our ability to continue consistently achieving the highest levels of customer satisfaction in the industry.”

About Grady-White Boats:

Founded in 1959, and privately held by Eddie Smith, since 1968, Grady-White Boats builds 28 models of premium offshore outboard fishing boats from 18 feet to 45 feet.  Grady-White Boats has been recognized for top-ranking excellence in customer satisfaction in every third-party study ever done in the marine industry including the 22nd consecutive National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) CSI Award for excellence in customer satisfaction awarded in 2024. Both Smith and 49-year veteran, President Kris Carroll, are recipients of the National Marine Manufacturers’ Association’s Hall of Fame Award.  Kris leads the company carrying on Eddie’s principles and values, with integrity and the highest standards, while empowering every team member to develop to their full potential.

The post Grady-White Boats Names New Director of Sales and Customer Relations appeared first on Boating Mag.

Grady-White’s Coastal Explorer series is so popular, it recently expanded with a 231CE to fill in behind the larger 251 and 281. The 231, though shorter, shows little sacrifice in luxury and fishability. It is fully featured and easily trailerable.

Grady-White utilized the console, lean bar and more from the 251, offering ­plenty of space for navigation electronics and seating—all protected by a large hardtop that is ­outrigger-ready.

Fishermen are further equipped with a 25-gallon livewell and an aft casting deck with built-in jump seats and cushioned backs. These swivel, offering access to the boarding platform, which is equipped with a boarding ladder. The design of the transom further accommodates two Power-Poles or Raptor shallow-water anchors.

Rod storage is ample, with four ­rocket launchers in the lean bar, four more in the hardtop, plus two more optional rod hangers under each gunwale to keep ­tackle handy and safe. Raw- and freshwater spigots are conveniently located to wash the deck, tackle or sandy feet.

There is a roomy, inviting changing room below the console with a standard portable head. On the front of the console is a long jump seat big enough to stretch out. There’s a step to the casting deck sized generously for two or more anglers, but it can convert quickly to an enormous sunning lounge for two or three. Electrically operated seatbacks at the bow fold down to provide casting-deck space.

Yamaha’s 250 hp outboard, with integrated power steering, makes this a great handling package with a top speed of just under 50 mph. Its maneuverability at speed is enhanced by Yamaha’s power steering. At rest or at trolling speeds, its stability makes it an excellent ­casting platform that provides secure ­footing to battle fish. It settles gently under the shifting weight of the crew, making accurate casts to mangroves or dock ­pilings easy.

The 231 Coastal Explorer is ideal for coastal exploring and presents owners with features and fun not always available in a compact bay boat.

High Points

• Transom is ­designed to ­accept two Power-Poles.
• Transom seatbacks swing inward or forward for ­transom access.
• Bow seating with electrically adjustable ­backrests.

How We Tested

• Engine: Yamaha 250 four-stroke
• Drive/Prop: SWSII SDS 15.5″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 Grady-White 231 Coastal Explorer appeared first on Boating Mag.

Step aboard the Grady-White ­Freedom 345. You’ll be struck by the opulence of its amenities, the sheer space of this wide-beamed new Freedom dual-­console model, and the aura of strength and quality emanating from every fixture and feature.

The Freedom 345’s hardtop, Grady’s trademarked AV² enclosure, sports a tall windshield and attractive support pillars that enhance its Carolina lines. A SureShade electrically retractable ­cockpit shade and Clear²Sea side curtains are ­other features of the AV² enclosure.

In the tremendous cockpit, we commended boarding doors and fuel fills on both sides. We also applauded the entertainment station with its grill, refrigerator, sink and storage, all paired with a wraparound companion seat served by an electrically adjustable table. Add the cushion to convert to dual forward-facing loungers. Forward, seating in the bow, as throughout the boat, features indirect LED lighting, luxurious upholstery, and both USB and USB-C charging ports.

Inside the starboard console, find a shower, sink, skylight and a freshwater VacuFlush head. Inside the port console, we liked the electromechanically operated berth, bench seat, flat-screen TV, microwave and skylight. Both console cabins featured designer details, such as tiled backsplashes and cabinetry with fluted inlays. The standard diesel generator keeps the air conditioning flowing in these ­spaces, and headroom is generous.

At the elevated helm sit dual Command Elite helm chairs with ergonomic access to electronics and accessory controls, including air conditioning to keep the area cool. 

The options list is short and starts with choosing twin 450 or triple 350 ­Yamahas. The Seakeeper stabilizer is a no-brainer, and if you fish, the outriggers, underwater lighting, and aft refrigerator/freezer/fish box with digital thermostat are a must.

Seeking a luxury dayboat with overnight options and the confidence that comes from owning a bluewater-­capable boat? Check out Grady-White’s ­Freedom 345.

High Points

• Trademarked SeaV² hull delivers proven performance.
• Yamaha Helm Master EX with joystick. 
• AV² enclosure ­includes a painted aluminum frame, LED lights and more.
• Port and starboard cockpit boarding doors and fuel fills.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 Grady-White Freedom 345 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Here’s a baker’s dozen of boats we think rate “must-see” status at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. From fishing boats to luxury boats to deck boats, these craft all share one thing in common: they possess some new, different or interesting design, construction or layout characteristics that we think boat buyers who consider themselves true fans of powerboats will be interested in learning about.

We’ve included the location of each of these must-see boats at either the Bahia Mar Marina or the Broward County Convention Center. Download the FLIBS app (available on both Google Play and the Apple Store). Map your route, hit the show and get your boat geek on!

Read Next: Must-See Marine Electronics at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

Axopar 29 CCX

What: Termed a “hybrid center console” it is said to meld full on fishing with a refined experience underway.

Why: Modular cockpit offers four different layouts.

Where: Bahia Mar F/G Dock 49 (Nautical Ventures Dock)

Beneteau Antares 9

What: Termed, “The Ultimate Weekender,” this 30 footer offers two private cabins, a full galley and a head with shower.

Why: Truly private stateroom with solid bulkhead not a curtain.

Where: Bahia Mar, G/H Dock 29

Monterey Elite 30 OB

What: Honored as a Boating Magazine Boat of the Year category winner: Best Small Dayboat.

Why: The center helm is a true wow!

Where: Convention Center 2027

Phenom 43 Center Console

What: A no-holds barred CC said to offer performance, luxury and fishability. Fathom E-Power battery system extends the adventure without the need for a generator’s noise and fumes.

Why: The trademarked Phenom NextStep 3-Piece Hull Design is innovative and unique.

Where: Convention Center 2084

Sea Pro 225 FLX Sandbar

What: A unique take that offers versatility with an emphasis on those boaters who enjoy hitting the beach or sandbar.

Why: The special table that installs at water level for entertainment while wading and swimming.

Where: Convention Center 2030

Grady-White Freedom 345 DC

What: Grady-White will debut a new Freedom 345 dual console.

Why: This wide-beamed dual console sets high bars for luxury, fishability and quality.

Where: Convention Center 2025

Sōlace 28 HCS

What: This new bay boat is unique from design, to build to layout.

Why: The excellent execution of the convertible transom which transforms from seating to casting platform while concealing two 50-qt coolers.

Where: Convention Center 2021

Sailfish 232 Center Console

What: A category winner for Boating Magazine Boat of the Year 2024; honored as: Best Small Fishing Boat.

Why: Excellent mix of construction and standards for its price.

Where: Convention Center 2081

Regal 38 SAV

What: This boat cruises, fishes and entertains while displaying little compromise regardless of the activities you pursue on the water.

Why: Multi-position captain’s seats. Ever see a chair become a table? See this boat!

Where: Bahia Mar, H-Dock

Robalo R257

What: They say this boat is a leap forward in boat design.

Why: Check out that hardtop!

Where: Convention Center, 2061

Sea Ray SDX 230 Outboard

What: The latest outboard-powered deckboat from Sea Ray, the year 2025 model SDX 230. (*SDX250 shown in picture)

Why: Will it be luxurious, functional, or both?

Where: Bahia Mar, Dock G/H 45

Boston Whaler 330 Vantage

What: They say that this versatile model is the final piece in the evolution of Boston Whaler’s  dual-console lineup.

Why: Boston Whaler always showcases some cool and new features with new models.

Where: Bahia Mar, Dock C 300

NAVAN S30

What: The new NAVAN open-air center console.

Why: Unique T-Step Hulls.

Where: Bahia Mar, GH Dock

The post Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2024: Must-See Boats appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Grady-White’s newest version of its popular Coastal ­Explorer 251 CE and 281 CE series  is the 231 CE; it’s easy to trailer and dock, it’s more affordable, and yet surprisingly it sacrifices little in terms of luxury and fishability. We were impressed by its versatility.

Interior and Accessories

Grady borrowed the lean bar, console and hardtop from the 251 CE. The 231 CE’s 25-gallon livewell is built into the lean bar, just as it is on the 251. We had to scratch our heads as we sussed out exactly where the features were trimmed in the shorter boat.

A reduced transom ­platform still offers plenty of elevated casting deck. The unique seatbacks from the 251 and 281 are still present. They swing aft or forward and lock into place for access to the boarding ladder or to drag a fish aboard.

The transom accepts dual Power-Poles. Rod storage is ample in the leaning bar with four rocket launchers, and there are four in the hardtop too. Undergunwale storage includes two rod holders per side. Raw-water and freshwater bibs are conveniently located to wash the deck, tackle and sandy feet—if the crew ­decides to go beach exploring.

The wide console has ­plenty of space for dual ­navigation displays and a compass. An overhead electronics box provides a good spot to park a VHF radio.

Read Next: Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer

The console houses an unexpectedly, impressively inviting changing room below with a portable head. A long jump seat with enough space to put up your legs and stretch out is at the front of the helm. There’s a step to the casting deck with generous space for two or more anglers, but when the cushions are in place and a cocktail table is arranged ­between the console lounge and casting deck, there’s an enormous sunning lounge for two or three people.

Engine

Yamaha’s 250 hp outboard with integrated power steering makes this a very nice handling package with a top speed of just under 49 mph. We liked the way it held tight in turns and skimmed over double-up wakes—some of the roughest turbulence that boats encounter. Stable at rest, it settles gently under the shifting weight of the crew. The 231 CE is packed with fun, comfort and fishability, which is not found in many other bay boats.

How We Tested

• Engine: Yamaha 250 Four-Stroke
• Drive/Prop: Yamaha Saltwater Series II SDS 15.5″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75: 1 Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• The deluxe console is standard, offering an integrated livewell, rod holders and a tackle center—a feature not available on the competition.
• The standard hardtop includes rod ­holders, overhead storage and ­an ­electronics box.
• Electrically operated seatbacks at the bow fold down for casting-deck space and don’t require stowing.

Low Points

• While we like the swinging aft ­seatbacks, we wish there were a way to remove and stow them.
• Many inshore anglers prefer two livewells, a feature missing on the 231 CE.

Toughest Competitor

Scout’s luxurious 231 XSB is serious about bay fishing, but it lacks the deluxe lean bar of the Grady, and the hardtop version adds $11,000 more to the $114,149 base price.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2024 Grady-White 231 Coastal ­Explorer appeared first on Boating Mag.

Que tu sabe!

It is a common greeting in Latin America. (Literal translation: “What do you know?”) Despite the DJ’s music carrying across the sand, I was able to hear people around me greeting each other in that way. They acknowledged me like that too. After all, though I wasn’t visiting on a boat, the 3rd annual Grady-White Rendezvous engaged everyone enjoying Sun Bay.

What started as a way for a group with a commonality to come together has turned into a day that residents prepare and take off for. Event organizer Victor Camillo describes the vibe of the Rendezvous:

“Being together with others with the same interests is amazing. We love being able to create memories. We’re like a family.”

Camillo says that Puerto Rico’s Grady-White community has managed to create a positive atmosphere for boaters, their families, and Vieques locals. The jovial, drama-free event can make anyone feel like they can host, or be part of, an epic raft-up, but a lot of planning has gone into making the weekend successful year after year.

What’s a raft-up, you say? It’s a gathering of boaters who meet, and tie their vessels together, creating an anchored raft. This usually occurs in a pretty spot, like a cove or sandbar, though this Vieques locale is over-the-top special. Raft-up activities include visiting the other boats, swimming, wading ashore to beachcomb, and perhaps taking a kayak or SUP for a paddle. In short, a raft-up is a celebration of the boating lifestyle. This Grady-White raft-up is of record-setting size, with 77 boats and over 300 loyal Grady owners attending. That makes its organizers a great source for advice if you are seeking to organize a raft-up in your area.

According to Bill Burleson, the event’s cofounder, at least six-month’s worth of planning is necessary for the first large-scale raft-up. That will give you time to figure out the where and why of your event, because it is not enough to just tie up and party. He explains that every event should keep in mind three main tenets: charitable giving, a positive local impact, and a family friendly atmosphere.

Have a Cause in Mind

Six months before the event, the Grady owners group, La Familia Grady-White Puerto Rico, was already collecting dues. Collecting money early confirms a guest’s commitment, but it also helps with planning the charitable contribution. On top of donations to organizations like Susan G. Komen, Vieques groups receive support, like the local hospital that received a mammography machine. “The purpose is to create a better environment while getting to know other great boat owners,” Burleson explains.

This year, La Familia Grady-White Puerto Rico donated $8,000 to Fe Que Transforma (Faith that Transforms), a group that prepares food for those in need. It also reportedly generated some $100,000 for the local economy, which is in some need.

Respect the Locals

Burleson, a Vieques native who now lives on the mainland, feels that an event is not effective if it doesn’t positively engage the local community.

“I asked the group, ‘Why don’t we get together and raise funds for some entity in Vieques?’ So I called the mayor, and he immediately directed me to an entity that provides transportation to cancer patients.”

Events in small rural areas, like Vieques, are only impactful if the residents can somehow reap the benefits, and if needs go beyond cancer care, Burleson is proud of how much money the locals make.

“We’ve been stimulating the economy, and within three years, we’ve injected approximately a quarter of a million dollars into Vieques.”

That isn’t just hotel and Airbnb revenue, considering most stay on their boats. The beach is lined with food trucks and stands, vendors grilling lobster, selling slushies and arepas.

In the process of planning and partying, locals should not feel out of place or sidestepped because of an event encroaching upon the best beach or bay. That includes the ones that can’t speak up for themselves. About a quarter of a mile from the site of the party, you can find taped off, secluded areas of beach. Vieques goes to great lengths to ensure that newly hatched sea turtles are undisturbed and able to make it to the surf.

One of the highlights of the weekend is when all of the boats turn on their underwater lights. While it’s magical to witness, it is short lived, according to Burleson. By 10:30 p.m., all of the lights are off so that sea turtles are able to find their way to the shore to nest.

 “We also enforce that no one can approach the yellow ribbons where the turtles nest,” he says.

Even in an area without endangered wildlife, leaving no trace should be a goal, and that’s why Grady-White’s Rendezvous ends with a beach cleanup by all.

La Familia

Luis Rivera has been attending the raft-up since the beginning. A doctor from the main island, he was excited to hear about the mammography machine that will aid the locals, considering the alarmingly high rates of cancer on the island, compared to the mainland. He was called by the mission, but what keeps him coming back is the overall atmosphere. He contributed to it, after all, seeing that I decided to talk to him after devouring the crab salad he came and offered me.

“What keeps me coming back is that the people are respectful, and we donate to help poorer people in the community. My family enjoys it very much.”

The music was a good mix of Top 40 and local sounds. Clean lyrics of course. On Friday, the crowd is light, but Saturday, the surf is comfortably crowded with children on paddleboards and kayaks, snorkeling, and flipping into the water. Rivera’s brood of six jumped in line to snack on pernil and arroz con gandules when they weren’t floating along or dancing to the sounds of the live band. At 70, Rivera wasn’t the oldest participant, and even tiny babies were held in waist-deep water sporting their floats.

Read Next: How to Raft Up With Other Boats

Day of Strategies

On the first day of the Rendezvous, I noticed Camillo running around with a hand-held VHF radio. No water-based event can work without them, and certainly not without dinghies (how do you think I got to Burleson’s beautiful boat with my recorder—swimming?) Future raft-up organizers take note.

The event has never run into a significant problem, and that is probably because they keep safety at the forefront. This is another important consideration for those planning a raft-up.

According to Burleson, “We don’t allow people to walk from boat to boat. If you want to see a friend down the way, you take a dinghy or paddleboard, or you swim.” At the minimum, breaking an ankle would dampen the vibe, but boating accidents can be deadly, even when everyone is sober.

Safety is also why this year’s line-up was also broken up, with some boats anchored together separately, off to the side. While it may not be as aesthetically pleasing, it is safer than forcing boats out into a rougher part of the bay. Besides, locals also need access, and a big chain of boats can block them.

Again, work with the community in which you are planning your raft up.

Besides, how else would the local fisherman come to the shore with their freshly caught lobster?

Common courtesy is enforced, and each participant gets a list of rules.

Burleson says, “We give everyone a list of requirements, including regarding your holding tanks. You’re not going to flush them here.”

That list includes how to interact with the turtles, informing everyone of the legality.

Familiarize Yourself With Rafting Up

For an event like the Rendezvous, boaters received plenty of help, but it was beneficial for all of the boats to know how to raft up prior to the event. Dinghies also directed oncoming boats to exactly where they’d tie up. Consider stationing people in dinghies to direct and help people at your raft-up.

If you’re new to tying up, start by having three fenders and two mooring lines per side, and tie the fenders up higher than usual to prevent any impact. It is also good to have two to four spring lines on hand. The larger boat will serve as the “anchor,” and other boats should be facing the same way when approaching.

Camillo warns that you could injure yourself or others if someone is in the water, or if you aren’t watching your hands closely. Make sure all passengers keep their hands and feet in the boat while rafting up, so they don’t get pinched.

Bottom Line

The Grady-White Owners of Puerto Rico, put on one of the most successful and largest raft-ups in the world. It is a testament to good planning, the fellowship between boaters and to top it off, it helps those in need. To the Grady-White Family of Puerto Rico, we say, ¡Buen trabajo!

10 Tips for Rafting Up

1. The largest, heaviest boat should drop its anchor first, and smaller boats can tie up on either side.
2. Approaching boats should slow down to avoid any potentially ­damaging collisions.
3. Think twice about cutting your ­engine—you might need to guide your boat against the current.
4. Remember to deploy your fenders before approaching another boat to raft up.
5. Come in facing the same direction as the larger boat, then throw your bow line over to the larger boat.
6. Note where the transom will line up against the other boat; being aware of cleat positions on both boats helps in tying and deploying ­fenders. Exchange lines, and make sure they’re firm before tying up.
7. Tie the bow line first, then the ­stern line.
8. Always secure boats to each other using the cleats, not rail stations, handrails or other accessories.
9. Keep the lines tied between boats as tight as possible to minimize ­motion between the boats. The exception is the bow line, which should be loose to allow for sway and swing.
10. Try your best to raft together with boats that are a similar size, or tie up in size (length) order. This will help in putting fenders in the most effective place.

When you’re ready to leave, remove the shore lines and mooring lines, then your bow line comes off last. Don’t use heavy power until you’re away from other boat, then ride off into the sunset.

The post Grady-White Pulls off Its Largest Raft-up Ever in Vieques, Puerto Rico appeared first on Boating Mag.

Grady-White has won every customer satisfaction award in the boating industry, and the new Canyon 386 perfectly demonstrates why.

The Canyon 386 slides through seas with ease and keeps the crew comfortable in aggressive turns or blistering speeds on its proven SeaV² hull. The triple Yamaha 450 XTO engines are controlled from a wide helm. Finished in black, the helm keeps down glare and enhances visibility. Grady’s trademarked AirView² (AV²) hardtop protects four captain’s chairs, and features an electric ­sunroof and a vented integrated full-height windshield. The throttle and wheel are centered, with the Yamaha Helm Master Full Maneuverability joystick alongside. The system makes docking easier, and allows the boat to maintain position and heading while bottomfishing. It can also maintain heading while allowing the boat to drift a rip or bottom contour.

Twin 35-gallon livewells on the transom keep bait lively with its vertical ­plenum, which surrounds the bait in a circular wall of fresh seawater. A large box on the transom is electrically cooled and can double as an icebox. Rod holders are plentiful for trolling, deep-dropping for swordfish, or bottomfishing for snapper. The wide helm leaning bar provides a generous rigging station in the ­cockpit, with a Corian top, optional grill, freshwater sink and tackle storage—and it’s all designed to double as an entertainment galley.

The Canyon 386 is packed with luxury standards like the Helm Master joystick, a Seakeeper, a windlass, and air conditioning in both the helm station and the spacious cabin below. Gunwale doors on both sides ease boarding and reboarding from the water, adding diving operations to the fishability of this overnighter.

The spacious cabin offers a private shower, sink and toilet. The galley is equipped with a microwave, refrigerator and storage. A 24-inch TV for entertainment and a dinette that converts to a berth makes this boat ideal for two to sleep, dine and enjoy time away from home. 

High Points

• Beam (13 feet, 2 inches) offers four seats at the helm, an incredibly spacious deck, and a cabin below.
• Grady’s designers use hidden indirect lights to add style and luxury in the cabin.
• Seakeeper stabilization tames rolling seas.
• Grady’s signature livewell plenum distributes a wall of fresh water around the bait.
• Grady boats are now available with factory-painted outboards that accent Grady’s signature gelcoat finish.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Grady-White Canyon 386 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Grady-White has built its reputation on the superb-handling SeaV² hull, unsinkable foam-filled construction, and consistent attention to style so luxurious and unique, it can be identified without a nameplate. That’s all baked in, with fishing features foremost, and seasoned with outstanding creature comforts so the boat serves up hardcore fishing and switches to comfortable ­family fun in a heartbeat.

This Grady’s helm accommodates two 16-inch or larger chart plotters. Comfortable placement of the Yamaha electronic throttle and shift, trim-tab switches and indicators, and flush-mounted switches makes the boat easy to operate from a seated or standing position. Add the optional Yamaha Helm Master controls with Full Maneuverability, and you get joystick steering and an autopilot. Even more maneuverability can be yours by ordering the optional bow thruster. Add both to your boat; you won’t regret it. 

The Canyon 306 is packed with comfortable seating. At the helm, dual bucket seats have Grady’s trademark firm, resilient vinyl and ergonomically comfortable multidensity foam, with flip-up bolsters and fold-down armrests. Forward seating includes a double lounge on the front of the helm, plus wraparound seating with foldaway lounge backs on both hullsides. The windlass is standard with a through-the-stem design, and controls at the anchor locker and helm. 

Grady makes its boats luxurious, but they are fishing boats first and boast all the rod holders needed to carry 50-pound-class trolling gear or 9-foot fly rods in the undergunwale storage.

The rigging station switches ­instantly from fishing mode to entertainment, featuring tackle storage and a prep sink, and a galley for sandbar parties. When it’s time for a dinner cruise, slip down into the locking head compartment for a hot shower and change of clothes.

People choose Grady-White boats, like this Canyon 306, due to their versatile entertainment capabilities, fishing and diving qualifications, durability, performance and timeless style. 

High Points

• Signature livewell plenum ensures bait swim in well-oxygenated water from top to bottom of the well.
• Luxurious seating is abundant, including patented foldaway backrests for the forward-facing bow seats and foldaway transom seat.
• Cockpit and all storage and fish boxes gravity-drain overboard.
• Popular side boarding door plus a transom door with stowable ladders add convenient, safe boarding and swimming.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Grady-White Canyon 306 appeared first on Boating Mag.

Scout Boats

Scout Boats will be showing a fleet of boats including the new 357 LXF and 281 X Signature Edition. Also, they will be revealing more about the in-development 67 LX series (rendering shown). Lots to see and learn about at: Bahia Mar Dock C/D 45.

Aviara AV28

Aviara’s AV 28 is one unique dayboat. It is available in three versions, one with outboard power, one with conventional sterndrive power and one with a forward-facing sterndrive that allows this great-looking, high-performing dayboat to deliver its owners a wakesurfing experience, too. Bahia Mar F/G Dock.

Blackfin 400 CC

Wow! Our Tech Team was impressed by this Queen of the Blackfin fleet. It sports multiple outboard power, all the fishing features contemporary anglers demand, plus high-performance and a confidence-inspiring ride. See it at: Convention Center 2075.

Formula 457 Center Consoles

Formula is debuting the 457 Center Console Sport and the 457 Center Console Fish at FLIBS 2023! Hot off the success of its 357 CC Sport and Fish version CC’s, the renown boatbuilder breaks out with these bigger sisters. See them! Bahia Mar Yachting Center, slips H818-H824.

Grady-White

Man, get yourself to the convention center if you are a fan of this storied, North Carolina boatbuilder. Grady-White will be debuting a brand new boat , so top-secret that even we could not get advance intel. Don’t miss it! Convention Center 2025.

Wellcraft 435

Looking for speed, style and seakeeping? Versatility and luxury combine aboard this newest Wellcraft. Its powered by over 1,000 horsepower. Check out the outboard-powered Wellcraft’s 435 at: Slip H821 in the North Basin of Bahia Mar.

Axopar 45 ST (Sun Top)

This is the boatbuilder responsible for the rise of the “adventure” or “ commuter” class of boats. Increasingly popular, these stepped-hull, straight-stemmed vessels offer great versatility and also quality, but without lots of frills. Axopar’s newest is the 45 ST Sun Top. See it: Bahia Mar F/G dock, booth 9. (Nautical Ventures)

Four Winns TH36

Is it the year of the cat? This 36 foot Four Winns dayboat rides twin hulls for ride comfort, efficiency and a completely different use of deck space, compared to monohull dayboats. See it at: Slip B214 in the South Basin of Bahia Mar.

Cruisers Yachts

Celebrating 70 years of boatbuilding, Cruisers Yachts will have a large fleet on display. So, why not see a large boat! It shows the open bow layout, the transforming aft cockpit and more. The 50 GLS evinces style and substance and innovation and you, “must-see” it at: Bahia Mar Dock GH, Slip 3.

Sea Ray SLX Outboard Series

Here’s twin engine bowriders/ dayboats up to 40 feet. They are built to the highest quality and with every feature oozing thoughtful detail. Luxury, a 55-mph top-speeds, touchscreen helm displays…. these Sea Rays are certainly a, “must-see.” Do just that at: Bahia Mar GH Dock.

Intrepid 51 Panacea

Sport Yachts are an elite segment of recreational boats. One of the most unique sport yachts must be the new Intrepid 51 Panacea. Naturally it runs on Intrepid’s vaunted transverse step hull form, delivering ride, handling and performance that is unrivaled. Learn more! See it at: Bahia Mar (on land and in water) at G Dock.

Tiara 48 LE

The 48 LE is a great blend of entertaining comforts and adventure amenities. The rotating lounge module has power actuation allowing the seat to be positioned towards the terrace, aft, and anywhere in between. See more of the Tiara 48 LE! Bahia Mar C/D Dock.

Fountain 39 DX

Dual consoles are one hot boat segment, offering offshore hull, build and ride with the layout and comfort of a bowrider. Two consoles, three outboards, one great boat: Fountain’s 39 DX! See Fountain Powerboats in the Convention Center at Booth 2017!

Chaparral 280 OSX

Outboard dayboats are among the most popular on the water. Want to see a top-notch example? See the Chaparral 280 OSX in the Convention Center at booth 2072.

The post Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2023: Must-See Boats appeared first on Boating Mag.

Overview

Fishing boats have to be more than casting platforms, livewells and fish boxes. Today’s boating family doesn’t confine itself to inshore or offshore fishing. In fact, they might decide they don’t want to fish at all on any given boating Saturday. That’s what Grady-White had in mind when it designed its first Coastal Explorer, the 251 CE, nearly 10 years ago. It’s been so successful, we wondered why Grady-White waited so long to bring out the larger 281.

Engines

The 281 CE is 27 feet, 7 inches in length with a 9-foot-4-inch beam and designed to run nicely on a single Yamaha XTO 450 or dual 300s. Our test boat sported the latter (an approximately $30,000 upgrade with full maneuverability), and it’s exactly how we’d equip it. Here’s why: First, there is the redundancy factor; if one engine goes down, there’s a second to get you home. Second, with dual engines you get joystick maneuvering and all the FishPoint and StayPoint features. And when equipped with full maneuverability, Yamaha’s engines provide an autopilot experience that is hard to beat. Garmin’s system with GN+ charting and Yamaha engines make it easy to set an auto route for a complicated course between two points. It is so sophisticated, it will decelerate, stop and engage StayPoint right over the waypoint, holding the boat in place while anglers ready the lines. Single and dual setups both reward the owner with top speeds that exceed 50 mph.

Interior and Accessories

Once the 281 gets you offshore, dual shotgun rod holders and dual gunwale rod holders hold your quiver of sticks. Two shotgun rod holders double as stanchion sockets for the optional seatback. There are a pair of rod holders forward as well, should you choose to use them. The hardtop is built and reinforced to accept outriggers. Four rocket launchers on the hardtop and four in the back of the standard lean bar—or an optional elite leaning post with fully adjustable luxury seats with bolsters and armrests ($6,050)—keep other rods handy, and both add a 38-gallon livewell, rigging sink and pullout shower. We found convenient tackle compartments in the front and back of the leaning post.

The fish boxes are under the forward seating and drain overboard. The second (18-gallon) livewell in the aft platform can double as another fish box, but we see inshore anglers using it for crabs or shrimp. Lastly, if you really plan to load the boat, there’s a double forward lounge with an insulated storage box beneath. Like every other compartment, it drains overboard.

The cockpit is roomy for a crossover, whether you want to cruise and snorkel or haul in a trophy fish. For an inshore day, the aft cockpit offers a casting deck. The convertible port and starboard seatbacks swing outward to create leaning bolsters to add stability when casting. The optional center seatback cushion ($1,135) can be removed and stowed. The foredeck offers vast casting space by joining the forward lounge (cushions removed) with the optional forward casting deck using a half-moon-shaped removable deck insert.

These casting platforms double as luxury seating through well-designed, lushly upholstered, thickly padded cushions. On the forward deck, an electric switch actuates two inclining seatbacks. With the cocktail table flat in the casting deck, the cushions complete a sun pad. Then the optional half-moon-shaped insert and cushion ($1,750) join the forward console lounge for a stem-to-console sun pad. Getting to the foredeck is easy thanks to molded-in steps port and starboard. The aft deck also provides port-to-starboard seating with a removable center seatback posted in rod holders and cushions that run beam to beam with the swiveling seatbacks in a comfortable position for riding.

Grady optionally pre-rigs for a 36-volt trolling motor ($4,460) with a swivel bracket, a motor shaft support and three 12-volt batteries. Your dealer will add the Minn Kota or Rhodan trolling motor and dual 10-foot Power-Poles—get those, you’ll want them whether tarpon fishing or fishing in the backcountry.

The 281 CE is as well-appointed for watersports as it is for luxury cruising or fishing. We liked the electrically activated side door that opens downward, offering a platform just above the water for easy reboarding from a swim. If you ship water while its open, it quickly scuppers overboard.

Grady-White boats are often accused of being heavy, but the 281 CE’s SeaV2 hull rides solid and weighs about 1,000 pounds less than the Everglades 273cc ($307,418 similarly equipped). Everglades is a formidable opponent and offers an upper-station option. That’s not Grady’s style, or it would have brought one along on this boat.

What Grady-White’s style is, though, is impeccable construction, beautiful lines and a track record of winning customer-satisfaction awards.

How We Tested

• Engines: Dual Yamaha 300s
• Props: SWS II 15.25″ x 19″ 3-blade stainless steel
• Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 150 gal. Water on Board: 0 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.

High Points

• Fast and responsive, quick to plane, and smooth in chop.
• Dual livewells (main 38 gallons; aft deck 18 gallons) offer plenty of bait capacity.
• Center-console compartment and entry are generously proportioned for easy entry.
• Wraparound acrylic windshield offers excellent visibility and has a hard-shell coating, enabling wiper use without marring clarity.
• Comfortable, convertible seating stows away conveniently for fishing.

Low Points

• We’d like to see removable mounts for the swiveling aft seatbacks.
• Bilge access is limited, but the trademark Grady seacock handles are easily reachable. 

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Boat Test: 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer appeared first on Boating Mag.