The Benefits Of A Center Console Boat

Whether you’re catching dinner, cruising for some sun, or just out for thrills, time on the water is always well-spent. And whatever your reason for boating, a center console boat can improve your experience! These boats are unique in a number of ways and have just as many benefits for new and seasoned mariners, alike.

To explain why, we here at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales) have put together some of the best parts of owning a center console boat. If you want to know more about these handy craft, or if you want to see our selection of center console boats for sale, contact our store in Branson, Missouri! Our friendly and experienced staff will find you what you need at the prices you want.

Just What Is A Center Console Boat?

For those who aren’t already familiar with these vessels, we’d like to start by defining exactly what a center console boat is. The defining feature, as you might have guessed by the name, is that the control panel or “console” is in the center of the boat rather than the bow, with space all around it. That means the helm is smack dab in the middle of the boat, giving these models a bit of an unusual look. Center console boats tend to be open-air, but sometimes have a small enclosed cabin around the console. They also measure anywhere between 13’ and 50’ in length, depending on brand and model.

Benefits

So now you might be asking, why on earth do you want a boat with such an odd configuration? The first and most obvious benefit is the space and accessibility. With a console right in the middle and lots of space around it, it’s much easier to move around your boat. Storage compartments, seating, and other obstacles that are often around that area will be elsewhere, providing plenty of legroom for walking about. 

Anglers tend to enjoy a center console boat, and you can see why. With the freedom to cast lines at the side, bow, and stern of the boat, you have access to more fishing angles than ever before. No leaning at the edge of the seating for you—just move around the edge until you’re in the optimal place to reel in your catch!

These boats also have much more room for passengers, and tend to be extremely well-balanced thanks to the layout. People can spread out along the bow, stern, and sides, allowing for a more equitable weight distribution. This is especially handy in rougher waters or if you’re towing watersports participants, allowing passengers to act as a temporary ballast.

Shopping Considerations

There are a few things you’ll need to take into consideration before you start shopping for your center console boat. Your first step is to figure out what size you’ll be needing. Some center console boats are small and can fit a handful of passengers at a time for smaller outings, but larger ones can easily hold passengers numbering in the double-digits.Think about how many people you’ll be bringing along on your most crowded day, then make sure you buy a boat to match that. Remember to account for both seating and storage.

Next, think about your planned boating locale. If you’re going to be primarily in calmer inland waters, smaller boats will do just fine. But any larger waves or serious chop will require a larger center console boat to avoid taking on too much water or tipping.

Finally, consider what additional features you might want your boat to have. If you’re going to be fishing, you’ll want to make sure there are livewells, swivel seats, coolers, and rod holders, though most of these can be added on aftermarket if you buy the proper size. Watersports tow boats will need a towing eye and ballast, and ideally will feature cruise control capabilities. If you’re going on any longer excursions, you’ll probably want an enclosed cabin with a head (bathroom) and maybe some sleeping berths.

A center console boat can do just about anything you need it to! If you’re not sure how to make one work for you, or if you’re ready to give it a shot, contact us at The Harbor (Boat & Yacht Sales). We proudly serve the people of Springfield and Kansas City, Missouri—let us serve you today!