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Robalo R230 (2024-)
1 x 250-hp Yamaha Four Stroke VF250XB VMAX 25"
Brief Summary
The Robalo R230 is designed to satisfy all of your fishing and performance needs. Outfitted with our Hydro Lift™ multi-angle hull design, horizontal tubed rod storage, SeaStar tilt hydraulic steering, and a 25-gallon live well. The R230 is perfect for those with the desire for endless possibilities.
Test Results
| RPM | MPH | Knots | GPH | MPG | NMPG | SM | NM | dBa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600 | 4.3 | 3.7 | 0.7 | 6.14 | 5.34 | 552.9 | 480.4 | 70 |
| 1000 | 6.1 | 5.3 | 1.4 | 4.52 | 3.93 | 406.7 | 353.4 | 70 |
| 1500 | 7.1 | 6.2 | 2.4 | 2.96 | 2.57 | 266.3 | 231.4 | 73.1 |
| 2000 | 8.4 | 7.3 | 3.7 | 2.29 | 1.99 | 205.9 | 178.9 | 75 |
| 2500 | 9.3 | 8 | 5.3 | 1.75 | 1.52 | 157.1 | 136.5 | 78 |
| 3000 | 11.9 | 10.3 | 7.1 | 1.69 | 1.47 | 151.9 | 132 | 83 |
| 3500 | 26.8 | 23.3 | 9 | 2.98 | 2.59 | 268 | 232.9 | 85 |
| 4000 | 31.9 | 27.7 | 12.7 | 2.52 | 2.19 | 227 | 197.2 | 85 |
| 4500 | 35.9 | 31.2 | 16.3 | 2.21 | 1.92 | 198.6 | 172.5 | 87 |
| 5000 | 40.3 | 35 | 20.5 | 1.96 | 1.71 | 176.7 | 153.6 | 89 |
| 5500 | 46.4 | 40.3 | 23.8 | 1.95 | 1.69 | 175.5 | 152.5 | 93 |
| 5800 | 48 | 41.7 | 23.8 | 2.02 | 1.75 | 181.7 | 157.9 | 95 |
Specifications
| Length Overall |
23' 7.01 m |
|---|---|
| Beam |
8' 6" 2.59 m |
| Dry Weight |
4700 lbs 2132 kg |
| Draft Up |
19" 48 cm |
| Deadrise/Transom | 20 deg |
| Bridge Clearance |
8' 7" 2.62 m |
| Person Capacity |
12/1725 lbs 12/782 kg |
| Fuel Capacity |
90 gal 341 L |
| Water Capacity |
9gal 34 L |
Acceleration Times & Conditions
| Time to Plane | 4.6 seconds |
|---|---|
| 0 to 30 | 8.5 seconds |
| Climate | 90 deg., 85 humid; wind: 5-10 mph, seas: slight chop |
Engine Options
| Tested Engine |
1 x 250-hp Yamaha Four Stroke VF250XB VMAX 25" |
|---|---|
| Std. Power |
1 x 250-hp Yamaha Four Stroke VF250XB VMAX 25" |
| Opt. Power |
1 x 250-hp Yamaha Four Stroke F250XSB 25" |
Robalo R230
by Capt. Ken Kreisler
Robalo Boats has a long-established reputation for providing its owners with a wide variety of quality boats. Its new R230 is easily trailerable and it is offered to those wishing to be on the water for fishing action or have a day out with family and friends.
Mission Statement
With an LOA of 23' 7" (7.01 m), a beam of 8' 6" (2.59 m), a 20-degree deadrise and a maximum single 250-hp engine, Robalo designed this boat for ease of operation. Riding on its Hydro Lift™ multi-angle hull design, and equipped with port and starboard horizontal tubed rod storage, SeaStar tilt hydraulic steering, and a 25-gallon livewell, there’s a lot more packed into this 23-foot package.
Major Features
- Upholstery material made from durable, scuff and scratch-resistant, 100% SiO silicone
- Easy access to the batteries and all onboard electrical systems
- Accessible water-resistant state-of-the-art circuit breakers
- Aluminum tandem axel trailer, disc brakes on all four wheels, folding tongue jack, 15" galvanized wheels, LED submersible lights, winch stand w/safety straps and trailer side guides
- Three-step telescoping boarding ladder w/concealed handle under a fiberglass hatch
- Encapsulated reserve flotation
- Fiberglass hardtop w/black or white powder-coated frame and four rod holders, storage box, LED spreader lights and integrated console grab rails
Features Inspection
The Cockpit
The deep aft cockpit is bolstered on both sides. There is a stainless toe rail under the port gunwale in addition to two full-length rod tubes. Fully aft is a full-width casting deck with topside aggressive non-skid, and is easily converted to a three-person seat by merely lifting the hinged backrests to the up position.
To port is access to a 25-gallon livewell and the three-person, hinged center seat easily deploys up or down and when lifted, allows access to the bilge area.
The Center Console
Like everywhere aboard the R230, maximum use of minimum space is realized at the center console. Fitting securely under the bolstered, double helm seat, and easily locked into place, is a large cooler.
The helm has a straightforward layout with a center-positioned, flush-mounted 12” Simrad screen, flanked on both sides by stainless LED electronic push button switches and water resistant DC breakers. In addition, electrical connectors are triple O-ring sealed and are watertight. The wiring is tinned copper with waterproof connectors. The stainless wheel, with a control knob, allows for effortless steering courtesy of the SeaStar tilt hydraulic system.
Digital gauges can be replaced with the optional dual electronics package with information displayed through the electronics screen. Other features include integrated dual level footrest, a waterproof wireless charging dock, aluminum-framed glass windshield, forward console seat with entry into console w/space for extra storage or Porta Potti, and 12v DC dash receptacle and 12v wiring buss inside the console.
The Bow
Deep seats, full side bolsters all around, and a stainless rail to either side make for safe seating forward.
Performance
Speed & Range
Our test boat, with two people aboard and half fuel, powered by a single Yamaha VF250XB VMAX outboard was quick to plane in 4.6 seconds and achieved a top speed of 47.95 mph. At that turn of speed, we had a 117 statute mile range. Our best cruise saw a 26.8 mph rate with a 130 statute mile range and took into consideration a 10% fuel reserve.
Handling
Our test day saw fairly mild conditions, and considering we were at the wheel of a 23-foot center console boat, found our Robalo 230 delivered an exciting performance.
Options To Consider
- A choice of eight interior and hull colors
- Dual battery charger
- Upgraded JL sound system
- Pre-wire for trolling motor w/triple bank charger
- Minn Kota trolling motor
- Trim tabs w/indicators
- Bow filler cushions and table w/dedicated storage
- Simrad electronics package
Observations
The Robalo R230 is an easily trailerable, inshore center console boat offering many standard features and premium options. A spirited performer, she will provide family fun out on the water including being outfitted with all the necessary fishing equipment.
Remember, life is better on a boat!
Test Video Summary
Overview
The Robalo R230 is a comfortable center console built for a day of offshore fishing or a day with the family. BoatTEST’s Captain tested her with a single Yamaha 250 outboard.
“This is a comfortable center console for a day offshore fishing or a day with the family.”
Mission And Intended Owner
- Built To Do: Offshore fishing and family days
- Designed For: Anglers and families who want premium hardware and comfort
- Locus Of Operation: Offshore
Design Overview
- Upholstery: Silicone-based, for longevity and resistance to mold and mildew
- Hardware: Premium, including full stainless struts and tension hinges
- Console Entry: Forward entry, with much more space than a narrow side door
- Windshield: Curved tempered glass that won’t fade like plastic
- T-Top: Oversized for extra shade, with supports seamlessly integrated into the console and a dark blue gelcoat underside to reduce glare
- Security Door: Recessed into the side when stowed
“I’m constantly impressed by the premium hardware that I see aboard these Robalo boats, and the R230 is no different.”
Specifications
- Length Overall: 23 feet
- Beam: 8 feet, 6 inches
- Draft: 19 inches with the motor trimmed up
- Empty Weight: 4,700 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 90 gallons
Test Conditions And Test Weight
- Load: Two people and a half tank of fuel
- Test Weight: About 5,894 pounds
Performance
- Tested Power: Yamaha 250 outboard
- Top Speed: 46 mph at 5,800 rpm
- Best Cruise: 26.8 mph at 3,500 rpm
- Fuel Economy At Best Cruise: 1.4 mpg
- Range At Best Cruise: 130 statute miles, holding a 10% reserve
| RPM | MPH | MPG | Range (SM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3,500 | 26.8 | 1.4 | 130 |
| 5,800 | 46 | — | — |
Acceleration:
- Time To Plane: 4.6 seconds
- 0–20 mph: 5.5 seconds
- 0–30 mph: 8.5 seconds
Engine Room Or Mechanical Compartment
- Access: Easy access under the rear seat
- Contents: Batteries, bilge pumps and fuel-water separators
- Fuel Primer Bulb: Easy to reach
- Bilge Sump: Helps keep the bilge clean
- High-Water Alarm: Float switch
- Batteries: Right below the hatch, easy to change out
- Battery Switch And Breakers: Conveniently placed near the transom
“Robalo has thought of that and made it easy on you, whether it’s yourself doing the maintenance or you’re taking it to a mechanic.”
Features Inspection
The Helm
- Windshield: Curved tempered glass
- Compass: Centerline
- Trays: Two accessory trays with drain holes
- Displays: Yamaha Command Link screen and a 12-inch Simrad display, both flush-mounted on an acrylic surface
- Switches: Backlit stainless steel, port and starboard, with fuses
- Audio: Clarion head unit
- Charging: USB, wireless phone charger and 12-volt outlet
- Cup Holders: Two, on either side of the wheel
- Wheel: Sturdy, adjustable stainless steel
- Storage: Small glove box
- Controls: Motor controls to starboard
- Seats: Premium upholstery, flip-up armrests and two bolsters
- Footrests: Two positions
- Mat: Color-matched Robalo anti-fatigue mat
- T-Top: E-box, spreader lights and four rod holders
- Leaning Post: Four rod holders and a custom Robalo cooler with latches to keep it in place
“Seems like I’m always having trouble with my cooler just drifting back throughout the day; it’s good to have it stay in place.”
Anchor Locker And Ground Tackle
- Anchor Holders: For a Danforth-style anchor, with keepers
- Cleats: Stainless pop-up cleats
“I recommend the largest Danforth anchor that will fit if you anchor often like I do. Consider having your dealer install a pop-up anchor cleat centerline on the bow, forward of the hatch.”
Boarding Amenities
- Security Door: Keeps pets and children aboard, recessing into the side when stowed
- Freshwater Shower: On the transom
Cockpit Arrangement And Equipment
- Bolsters: Padded, on the sides
- Toe Rails: For reeling and gaffing
- Rod Holders: On the gunwale, plus rod storage below
- Livewell: Lighted and insulated
- Stern Seat: Flips down for lounge mode
Bow Arrangement
- Seating: Removable forward-facing backrests, plus a forward-facing console seat
- Latches: Paddle latches, so you don’t fiddle under cushions or wear out snaps
- Fish Box: Large, with a Yeti-style screw-in drain
- Hardware: Full stainless struts and tension hinges
- Amenities: Sturdy grab rails, cushioned backrests, JL Audio speakers and cup holders
- Deep Storage Locker: Ideal for trolling motor batteries
Interior Spaces
Console:
- Entry: Forward, with more space than a side door
- Head: Optional
- Port Light: Stainless steel
- Lighting: Overhead light
Buyer’s Options
- Build And Price: Available on Robalo’s website
- Battery Charger: Recommended by The Captain as cheap insurance
- Simrad Displays: 9-inch or 12-inch, otherwise pretty much the same
- Anchor Gear: Chain and line suited to the boating area; two anchors for those who beach
- Family Options: Rigging for family use, cruising, entertaining and sunning at a fairly low upcharge
- Trailer: Tandem-axle trailer standard, with an optional spare tire
Advantages And Disadvantages
Advantages
- Comfortable for offshore fishing or family days
- Premium hardware throughout
- Mold-resistant silicone upholstery
- Tempered glass windshield that won’t fade
- Oversized T-top with a glare-reducing dark underside
- Excellent maintenance access, with a bilge sump and high-water alarm
- Lighted, insulated livewell and large bow fish box
- Wide forward console entry
- Latched cooler that stays in place
- Recessed security door for kids and pets
- Standard tandem-axle trailer
Disadvantages
- No centerline anchor cleat forward of the hatch; The Captain suggests a dealer-installed one
- 1.4 mpg at best cruise
- Head, battery charger and spare tire are optional
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