Best Beginner Saltwater Center Console Boats from 16 to 20 Feet Long
For those venturing into the world of saltwater boating for the first time, a small center console offers an ideal blend of versatility, ease of use, and affordability. Center consoles or “CC’s” were design so an angler could work a fish 360-degrees around the boat without having to let go of the reel to pass around or over an obstacle.
If you are not planning on fishing, there are other boat types better suited for family boating.
They’re typically built for saltwater use, with all-stainless hardware. Many have a fold-down Bimini as options an option, and we recommend that you take it.
These boats provide simple and relatively economical operation powered by a single outboard, typically anywhere from a 60-hp for a 16-footer up to 150-hp. Obviously, the highest horsepower will propel the boat the fastest, but remember these are not intended to be race boats. Match the horsepower with the load the boat will carry.
Some come as a package deal with an aluminum trailer. Now is a good time to buy, because they will only get more expensive as the summer nears.
The prices given are base and may be higher based on shipping and options put on the boat and any price increases.
Here’s a look at just a few of the many boats in this category:
1. Boston Whaler 170 Montauk
Length: 17’4” feet
Price: Approximately $50k Range
Boston Whaler is synonymous with reliability, and the 170 Montauk is an excellent starter boat. Its unsinkable level flotation design makes it exceptionally safe for beginners, and it features a stable hull that provides a smooth ride, even in choppy waters. It’s equipped with a fuel-friendly 90-horsepower Mercury outboard motor, allowing for a comfortable cruising speed and easy handling. It is an inshore boat
Distinguishing Features:
- Unsinkable construction
- Broad bow adds space forward
- One of the most respected brands in boating
With its classic design and robust construction, the Montauk is a good investment for any aspiring saltwater boater—a boat that can be passed down through several generations and still be dependable as ever.
2. Robalo R180
Length: 18’4” feet
Price: Approximately $60k Range
The Robalo R180 is a compact and nimble center console boat deeper than many in class. She has an 18-degree deadrise, making her more comfortable in a chop. Her high freeboard makes her dryer and safer. The base package features a 90-horsepower outboard engine.
Major Features:
- 18-Degree deadrise for enhanced ride
- More freeboard than many in class
- Well-known brand with broad dealer network
This boat is a good choice for inshore fishing and could fish outside the inlets on calm days. Robalo is a well-known for being a good build with a minimum of aftermarket issues.
3. Grady-White Fisherman 180
Length: 17 feet 10 inches
Price: Approximately $65-70k Range
The Grady-White Fisherman 180 like all in the G-W line is known for build quality and for holding value, though like the Robalo, she is more expensive than some. Her high-quality construction ensures durability in saltwater environments, and she is powered by a reliable 150-Yamaha horsepower engine.
Major Features:
- 150-hp outboard can propel her to 50 mph
- Proprietary V2 hull design that balances efficiency with ride
- A marque name means bragging rights and higher resale value
The G-W Fisherman 180 is a good choice for families who expect to keep the boat a long time, perhaps handing it down between generations. She’s suitable not only for fishing but for family beach hopping, and add a tow pylon and she can tow tubers or skiers
4. Key West 1720 CC
Length: 17 feet 2 inches
Price: Approximately $45k Range
The Key West 1720 is the company’s most popular model, combining relatively modest price and good value with lightweight. This boat is designed with inshore fishing in mind. A 70-horsepower Yamaha provides sufficient power for both dayboating and coastal fishing.
Details to Consider:
- Upswept bow helps keep her dry
- 15-degree deadrise provides quick planing and economy
- 10” draft with outboard up allows shallow operation
The Key West’s rugged build ensures it can withstand the rigors of coastal use. This combination of features and affordability makes it a good choice for novice boaters.
5. Sea Pro 210 Bay
Length: 20’8” feet
Price: Approximately $55-60k Range
The Sea Pro 210 Bay (formerly the 208) draws just 12”, making her good for flats fishing, and her 61 gallon fuel tank is larger than many in class. A leaning post with backrests and a 7” Simrad sonar/gps are standard. Like most “bay boat” CC’s she has less freeboard forward than some multi-mission center consoles in class.
Major Features:
- Sonar/GPS included
- Swim platforms and SS ladder for easy reboarding
- Trolling motor plug included at bow
The 210 Bay offers a pro-style layout with multiple flush-deck hatches for good footing fore and aft, lots of storage, standard large aerated livewell and many other features anglers want most.
Conclusion
When selecting your first saltwater center console boat, consider your budget, the waters where you’ll be using it, the size of your typical crew or your family, the reputation of the brand. Each of the options listed above provides a basic, safe boat for entry-level operation.
When it comes time to trade up, not matter which brand you buy, you’ll have a much better idea of how large the next boat should be, and the brand.