ONBOARD Magazine summer 2021

CENTRE
STAGE
ONBOARD TAKES A LOOK AT THE RISING
POPULARITY OF CENTRE CONSOLES, THEIR
VERSATILITY, SEAWORTHINESS AND ABILITY TO
ACCOMMODATE SOME HEFTY OUTBOARDS
Centre console boats have long been a popular choice for
those in the USA who enjoy fishing, whether it be offshore,
coastal or large lake fishing. One of the primary
reasons being the superior visibility and general open
space that they offer whilst cruising.
Because the helm is located in the very centre of the boat, you
can see in all directions, as opposed to a boat with a console
along the side, where visibility can be greater on to the right
but blocked on the left. This 360° vision offers increased safety
and situational awareness, especially in busy coastal areas.
The central helm from a design angle can offer an increased
number of seating configurations. One obvious benefit might be
an extended lounging area or set of seats at the bow. This can
add a little more privacy for guests, but also be a chance to
separate the kids from the adults to give the little ones some
feeling of independence. These seating areas at the bow also
offer extended and accessible storage options without taking
away seat numbers. Perfect for loading up the tender for a day
at the beach.
Being able to walk around the complete vessel makes for a
more sociable layout, so guests are not stuck at different
ends of the tender or even stuck ‘together’ at the rear. When
anchored and enjoying some time on a paddle board or diving,
the addition access points to boat can be very handy. But, the
ability to walk around and the centre consoles stability make
for a much more enjoyable and social time when anchored.
If you’re taking the family out on an adventure in the tender,
this is where centre console
boats shine. As well as having
good rough water capability,
centre console boats offer an
abundance of standing room
and open space. The seating
capacity is generous and as
a base for water activities
there’s nothing better.
Balance is probably the most
over looked advantage to
having a centre-console boat.
Having the right balance while
cruising on the water will affect your acceleration, handling,
guest safety and top speed. If you are travelling at slower
speeds in smooth or rough waters, it can be hard to get the
right balance. Especially when you have a passenger, the weight
distribution can make a difference.
With a centre console boat, however, you can have a more
balanced ride, and passengers can sit in front or behind the
console, keeping your boat perfectly balanced throughout the
entire trip. This also gives the guests more privacy if required.
Centre console boats are a popular breed of leisure craft – and
with good reason. They handle well in choppy seas and offer a
good assortment of practical features for the active seafarer.
Lastly, they boast an attractive and sporty look with ample
seating arrangements and allow some pretty meaty outboards
to be strapped to the back.
62 | SUMMER 2021 | ONBOARD