2024 New Center Console Buyer’s Guide
Jun 12, 2024
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Center console boats have surged in popularity, serving as versatile options for cottage, fishing, and family outings. Combining luxury features with minimal upkeep, they accommodate today’s hectic lifestyles. Their robust build and aquatic prowess make them go-to choices for varied water activities. While boasting longevity and easy maintenance, they trade storage capacity for functionality. Offering a comfortable ride and adaptable power options, they come at a slightly higher cost due to their popularity and durability.
* prices and specifications subject to change without notice
Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin
By: Gregg Mansfield
Axopar Boats’ modular design allows for extensive customization on the 29 XC Cross Cabin. The boat has a fully enclosed wheelhouse with seating for six people including flip-up and rotating bolsters for the pilot and co-pilot. Access to the wheelhouse is easy thanks to a new door design with a wider opening. Axopar offers three versions of the aft deck with an open concept, wet bar and an aft cabin with storage. The optional cabin can sleep two people and is available with an optional toilet and sink.
Offering tremendous sightlines and 360 panoramic views, navigating the waterways becomes a pleasure. The uncluttered helm enhances control and accessibility, ensuring a smooth journey.
Large sliding side doors provide access to the pilothouse, while the minimal level differences make movement effortless, both inside and out. The optional u-sofa configuration on the fore deck creates an inviting space for relaxation, whether lounging or dining. With its thoughtful design and comfortable amenities, the Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin sets a new standard for center consoles, combining functionality with luxury.
Specifications
Length: 28 ft 8 in Beam: 9 ft 8 in Weight: 6,173 lbs Fuel Capacity: 400 L Passenger Capacity: 9 Max HP: 400hp48 kts Starting at: $89,000 CAD
Introducing the Trophy 24CC by Bayliner, the latest addition to their esteemed lineup. Since its inception in 1957 by Orin Edson, Bayliner has remained a pioneer in boat manufacturing, now operating as a division under the Brunswick Boat Group, with a global presence boasting over 400 dealers across 60 countries.
The Trophy T24CC exemplifies Bayliner’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Featuring an expanded fuel capacity, enhanced storage options, and heightened cruising comfort, this vessel is tailored to accommodate up to 12 passengers with unparalleled versatility for both fishing enthusiasts and entertainers alike.
Crafted on a deep-V hull, the T24CC ensures a stable and secure ride through any waters, complemented by a grippy flooring designed to withstand rugged conditions. Equipped with two 9-inch Simrad Digital Dash displays and VesselView Link, monitoring the boat’s performance is effortless from the helm.
The bow comfortably seats three to six guests, doubling as additional storage space when needed. Standard features include a self-bailing cockpit, canvas T-top with rod holders, trim tabs, and a 15-gallon bait well. Anglers will like the raw water washdown station, bow fishing deck, and under gunwale rod storage.
Specifications
Length: 24 ft 0 in Beam: 8 ft 6 in
Dead Rise: 22 degrees Draft: 2 ft 11 in
Fuel Capacity: 100 gal Water Capacity: 12 gal Weight w/trailer: 6,115 lbs Maximum Horsepower: 300 hp Passenger Capacity: 12 MSRP: $65,655 USD
The Capoforte FX240 exemplifies the perfect balance between performance, luxury, and versatility, introducing a new standard of excellence to the FX Series. Crafted with outboard propulsion and a high-performing hull designed to navigate even the most challenging seas, this vessel offers a remarkable boating experience.
Whether configured for leisure or fishing, the FX240 exudes elegance and comfort. Its bow area can accommodate a cozy sofa for relaxation or be left open for dedicated anglers. The console and pilot cockpit are impeccably finished, with every detail thoughtfully integrated for optimal functionality. Below deck, a small changing room adds convenience, while a wc option enhances comfort during extended voyages.
For fishing enthusiasts, the FX240 offers an optional elegant canopy with a polished steel tubular structure equipped with rod holders, further enhancing its versatility. With impressive technical specifications including a cruising speed of 25 knots and a maximum speed of 38 knots, powered by a maximum permitted 250 horsepower engines, the FX240 delivers exhilarating performance on the water. Whether cruising along the coast or embarking on a fishing expedition, the Capoforte FX240 promises an unparalleled boating experience that combines luxury, performance, and style.
Specifications
Length: 24 ft 5 in
Beam: 99 in Fuel Capacity: 270 L Boat Weight: 1,800 kg Maximum Horsepower: 1Å~250 hp Passenger Capacity: B8 / C10 MSRP: Contact Montreal dealer
For decades, Cigarette Racing has been synonymous with excellence and dominance in the powerboating world. Their commitment to innovation, speed, and superior craftsmanship has propelled them to the forefront of the industry.
The new 52 Thunder from Cigarette Racing is loaded with technology that includes hatches that open with a button, tables that retract seamlessly into the sole and backrests that slide out of the gunwales.
Available with five or six Mercury Racing 500R outboards or four 600-hp Mercury Marine outboards, the 52 Thunder is an all-new hull with a 23-degree deadrise. The helm has seven fully adjustable, shock-absorbing chairs, and the dash features three 24-inch Garmin displays.
The three bow loungers or the chef’s kitchen on the stern are great spots to entertain. Below, Cigarette Racing provided a cabin with air conditioning, seating, and an enclosed head with a shower.
This vessel exemplifies the fusion of power, style, and technological prowess that has become synonymous with the Cigarette Racing brand.
Specifications
Length: 52 ft 1 in Beam: 14 ft Dry Weight: 29,000 lbs Fuel Capacity: 880gal Top Speed: 127 km/h Max HP: 3,000hp MSRP: $3,100,000 USD
The new D50 Coupé from De Antonio brings together the best features of its brother, the D50 Open, and improves upon the usable indoor and outdoor space. Setting the model apart is a cabin superstructure that offers greater comfort and safety on deck as well as protecting the driver’s spot from wind and water.
The D50 Coupe offers shaded areas on deck with the possibility of folding a retractable awning on the roof to let in light and enjoy the good weather.
The optional u-sofa configuration on the fore deck creates an inviting space for lounging and dining, further enhancing the boat’s versatility and appeal.
Inside, the D50 boasts spacious accommodations, with vertical hull sides creating bright and airy living spaces.
The guest cabin aft offers ample seating and headroom, doubling as a comfortable sleeping area for overnight guests.
The boat is powered by twin Mercury 600-hp outboards and cruises at around 40 mph. Despite its size, the D50 Coupé handles with agility and precision, making it ideal for both experienced boaters and newcomers alike.
Specifications
Length: 48 ft 10 in Beam: 14 ft 5 in Weight: 11.5 Tons
Fuel Capacity: 1,500 L Passenger Capacity: 12 Max HP: 1,600 hp
Max Speed: 45 kn MSRP: See local dealer
The 457 Center Console Sport joins the 387 Center Console Sport & Fish in the company’s lineup and like all models Formula builds, it’s built rock solid.
With a length of nearly 49’1” and a 13’9” beam, Formula had lots of room to work with when laying out the 457 Center Console.
Formula designed the 457 Center Console around triple Mercury Marine 600 Verado outboards and added a spacious swim platform with foam decking that Formula carried throughout the cockpit. Few high-end center consoles offer as much space as the 457 Center Console Sport. A rear bench on the transom folds away, offering even more room.
Under the hardtop were two rows of seats and a prep station with drawers, including a cooler with a split lid that slid out with the touch of a button. Each passenger has an individual bolster with dropout bottoms and movable armrests. The helm was sleek, featuring triple Raymarine screens, Mercury Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) and Mercury Joystick Piloting for outboards.
The helm featured triple Raymarine screens, Mercury Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) and Mercury Joystick Piloting.Protecting the technology was a large wraparound glass windshield. A neat bit of technology are screens supported by a Wind-Armor gas shock on the port and starboard side to deflect wind from the crew. Some might argue the best seat on the 457 Center Console is in the bow. Whether it’s the two-person lounger in front of the console or the deep bow seating with molded-in forward-facing backrests, the center console will deliver a comfortable ride at speed.
From the durable hardtop to the cabinetry, Formula sets the standard when it comes to build quality. The cabin is often an afterthought, but Formula was meticulous when designing the cabin. The cabin boasts 6-foot-6 headroom and includes a head with a separate stand-up shower. The U-shaped seating can be converted for overnight sleeping and several windows let in lots of natural light. Formula also included a microwave and a sink in the cabin.
The Formula 457 Center Console Sport has a cabin for dining or overnighting as well as a full enclosed head. The 457 Center Console weighs over 33,000 lbs and will eat up big water whether it’s offshore or a large lake.
Specifcations
LOA: 49 ft 1 in Beam: 13 ft 9 in Weight: 33,250 lbs Fuel: 700 gal Power: (3) Mercury Marine 600 Verado MSRP: $2.44 million USD
A high-performance center console with advanced features.
By: Gregg Mansfield
Returning to its performance roots, Fountain Powerboats launched the 43 SCX for 2024. Building on the success of the 38 NX hull, this new flagship model boasts an impressive 12-foot beam and a redesigned interior, setting a new standard in the world of high-performance center consoles.
The 43 SCX features Fountain’s next-generation hardtop and a new dash for the Washington, N.C., builder.
Below, Fountain included a queen-size berth and an enclosed head and a 6,000 BTU heater/air conditioner to keep it comfortable.
The attention to detail is evident throughout the 43 SCX, from its refined cabin appointments to its integrated top and all-glass windshield.
Fountain has left no stone unturned in ensuring both luxury and functionality.
The new flagship model is available with quad Mercury Racing 400R or 500R outboards. No performance-oriented center console is complete without a 24-speaker, five amplifier sound system and ShadowCaster lighting system. Moreover, the 43 SCX is highly customizable, allowing owners to tailor their boat to their exact specifications. From gelcoat and graphic options to creature comforts such as a cockpit galley, generator, or SeaKeeper gyrostabilizer, the possibilities are endless.
Whether you’re cruising in style or tearing up the waves, the Fountain 43 SCX delivers an exhilarating and unforgettable experience on the water.
Specifications
Length: 43 ft Beam: 12 ft 3 in Boat Weight: 19,500 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 600 gal Passenger Capacity: 12 Maximum Horsepower:5 x 500 merc R’s MSRP: starting at$1,202,390 USD
A Premium vessel for family outings or fishing adventures.
By: Jarrett Matthews
The NauticStar 212 Legacy Center Console Boat epitomizes the perfect fusion of comfort, convenience, and performance, tailored for both leisurely family outings and exhilarating fishing adventures. Designed to accommodate diverse needs, this vessel boasts an array of features that cater to every aspect of boating enjoyment.
For those seeking relaxation, the Legacy 212 offers unrivaled comfort with full bow cushioning, flip-out backrests, and plush, 3-across transom seating. The walkthrough transom and aft step with swim ladder ensure easy access for swimming and watersports activities.
Meanwhile, anglers will appreciate the boat’s tournament-grade fishing amenities, including a transom aerated live-well, ample rod holders, and cast net and bait storage. The saltwater-ready hull ensures stability and comfort even in challenging water conditions, promising a smooth ride throughout the journey.
Crafted with NauticStar’s renowned attention to detail and quality, the Legacy 212 features a wood-free composite hull, stainless steel hardware, and premium Syntec vinyl upholstery with Nano-Block stain protection. The vessel also comes equipped with advanced electronics such as a Simrad NSX9 screen for enhanced navigation.
With its versatile design, superior construction, and legendary performance, the Nautic Star 212 Legacy Center Console Boat is a prime example of the brand’s commitment to delivering exceptional boating experiences. Whether cruising with loved ones or chasing the next big catch, this boat ensures that every outing is memorable and enjoyable.
Specifications
Length: 20 ft 3 in Beam: 102 in Dead Rise @ Transom: 19 degrees Dead Rise @ Entry: 42 degrees Approx Draft: 13 in Fuel Capacity*: 73 gal Approx. Boat Weight: *2,200 lbs Passenger Capacity: 8 / 1,200 lbs Max Horsepower:150 hp MSRP: Starting at $72,105 USD
Robalo Boats redesigned its 246 Cayman and launched the allnew R230 for the 2024 model year. Among the updates for the 246 Cayman (24’ 6” LOA, 9’ beam) were a new deck design, additional seating options and stowage.
Twin insulated livewells in the cockpit along with a 50-liter carry-on cooler provides options for cold storage and rod storage solutions. A fiberglass hardtop and aluminum-framed windshield comes standard on the R230.
The 246 Cayman stands out as the perfect choice for adventurers seeking both offshore excursions and leisurely coastline cruises. Its kevlar reinforced hull, combined with the innovative Hydro Lift™ multi-angle design, ensures precise maneuverability while guaranteeing premium comfort on every journey.
What sets the 2024 models apart is the incorporation of upholstery material crafted from 100% SiO Silicone, a revolutionary innovation in marine seating.
Power for the R230 is a single 250-hp outboard from Yamaha Marine.
Specifications
Length: 24 ft 6 in
Beam: 9 ft Fuel Capacity: 341 L Boat Weight: 4,700 lbs Max Horsepower: 2,500 hp Passenger Capacity: 12 MSRP: $97,055 USD w/ trailer
