Robalo R230 (2024-)

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

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"

Captain's Report

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!