ONBOARD Magazine autumn 2023

CENTRAL
COMMAND
Centre console yacht tenders offer precise handling,
optimal weight distribution, spacious layouts, unobstructed
views, and multifunctionality, ensuring a safe, comfortable,
and luxurious experience for both passengers and crew
Words: Chris Clifford
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, handling 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 or to the right but
blocked on the left. This vital 360° vision offers increased safety
and situational awareness, especially in busy coastal areas even
with a cabin configuration or T-Top version.
The central helm from a design angle can offer an increased number
of seating configurations which many of the brands offer as a
main selling point as it allows for the one vessel to be used in
different circumstances whether fishing, entertaining or carrying
cargo. 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 or with a plethora
of inflatables, ski gear or diving equipment.
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 (which could be even
worse...). When anchored and enjoying some time on a paddle
board or diving, the additional access points to boat can be very
handy. But, the ability to walk around and the general centre
console’s safety and stability make for a much more versatile,
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 or a number of guests, the weight
distribution can make a difference. However, with a centre console
boat 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.
50 | AUTUMN 2023 | ONBOARD