Center Console boat are a type of powerboat with the steering console located in the center of the boat, halfway between the bow and stern. The hull is usually open design with the deck surrounding the console.
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The hull is typically made of either aluminium or Fiberglass / GRP. The hull designs tend to be Deep Vee, Modified Deep Vee or Cathedral bottom. Larger models may include a toilet located beneath the console. A worth while edition to center console boats are T-tops that provide protection from the sun and elements.
Known for there versatility, providing a range of uses such as fishing, skiing, tubing, and diving. Excellent performance and manoeuvrability due to most of the weight being in the center of the boat.
Common extras for this style of oat include rod holders, outriggers, bait and livewell tanks, and ice lockers to keep your catch fresh on ice.
This type of boat is also widely used as a tender for larger vessels.
Advantages
- More space and more space
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They make good dive boats as well as good fishing boats. Plenty of space to store gear and tanks. Plenty of open/available gunwale space for falling backwards into the water.
- Having the helm in the middle of the boat tends to give a better view of everything going on in and around you
- Easy to launch and retrieve
- Easier to grab any rod’s when fish is on.
- Easier to make tight turns.
- Unobstructed access to any part of the boat which is important when fishing.
- Higher operating position gives a much better view of the water while operating the boat.
Disadvantages
1. Most are not equipped with bathroom facilities or sleeping quarters.
2. Need to walk around the console to move from the front to the back of the boat.
3. Not the best configuration for large crew or family etc.
4. No cushy seating and lounges.
