We Compare 4 28’-31’ Center Consoles | Neptunus 650 Express | Formula 430 All Sport Crossover
The Neptunus 650 Express is one of the largest express cruisers ever tested by BoatTEST. Neptunus says she’s CE-A rated for open ocean operation, but we noticed she includes captain’s quarters aft, even though she can readily be handled by an experienced owner/operator. A handheld remote allows full docking control from anywhere aboard thanks to standard bow and optional stern thrusters.
The bow of the Sea Ray SLX 280 includes wraparound seating with a pair of forward-facing lounges. She’s a roomy, luxurious bowrider that should appeal to families seeking the space of a deckboat or pontoon boat but the ride and performance that comes with a 21-degree deadrise at the transom. Construction includes the company’s Quiet Ride technology.
The Formula 430 All Sport Crossover delivers the speed of a sportboat, topping out at 59 mph in company tests pushed by quad 400-hp Mercury Racing outboards. But she’s also set up as a weekend cruiser with full galley and accommodations for four below. She’s also ready for offshore fishing, with a bait-prep station, tackle stowage, and a 52-gallon (212 L) livewell.
The Ranger Boats Z520C, powered with a 250-hp Evinrude E-TEC G2 2-stroke turning a 26” Raker HO prop, had a hole-shot time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 71.7 mph in our tests. The company’s “Pulltruded” fiberglass transom is rigid and durable, and includes a built-in setback for improved high-speed performance.
The World Cat 230SD has a draft of just 11 inches, and that combined with her bow ladder makes her ideal for visiting remote beaches for a swim or a picnic. The cat design allows carrying her 8’6” (2.59 m) beam nearly all the way to the bow, and the sharp sponsons provide a smooth ride in choppy water. She’s equipped for fishing, but the optional bow cushion package lets her do double-duty as a comfortable bowrider.
All anglers know what features they want in their next boat, just ask them! Looking at center consoles rigged for fishing in the 28’ to 31’ range, we found many versatile design features coupled to seaworthy, soft-riding hulls with excellent performance. Anglers need to choose for themselves, but there’s a lot to recommend each of these boats.
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