The Many Advantages of Center Console Boats

Center console boats don’t really look like other types of boats, and that’s part of their appeal. These smaller crafts are extremely versatile, which means many different types of boaters can benefit from owning one. Whether you’re into fishing, cruising, entertaining or watersports, you’ll find that a center console boat fits the bill!

Curious to learn more? L&M Marine in Stapleton is your Alabama center console boat dealer. Here are just a few of the many advantages that center console boats have to offer.

Definition

Let’s begin by more accurately outlining what exactly a center console boat is. The primary defining feature of a center console boat is that its control panel (“console”) is not located at the bow of the boat, but rather in the center, with space around it on all sides to allow people to move freely from bow to stern. So the helm, with all its controls and devices, is right smack in the middle of the boat, which gives them an unusual look. Center console boats are generally open to the air, but may sometimes have a small enclosed cabin at the center. These boats may be anywhere from 13’ to over 50’ long, depending on brand and model. 

Benefits

So why is it a good thing to have the controls for your boat in the middle? Well, accessibility for one thing! When you’re trying to maneuver around the boat, you’ll have more freedom because there won’t be as much stuff in your way, like storage compartments, which are generally also placed at the center. 

Many people who fish love center console boats because they have the freedom to cast their line over any side of the boat, including the bow! You have lots of options for where you can fish from, and you’ll be able to get closer to your catch as you reel it in. No more leaning over the side of the boat awkwardly or worse, trying to reach over the control panel.

Another great advantage of center console boats is how much space they provide for passengers, in addition to being more balanced. The weight distribution of your boat will be more even, because not everyone has to crowd at the stern; people can stand at the bow instead. This helps to make your boat more balanced, which is especially handy in rougher waters or if you’re trying to tow watersports participants, since your passengers can also serve as temporary ballast.

Shopping Considerations

There are several things you’ll want to take into consideration when shopping for the perfect center console boat. First off, what size do you need? You’ll find very small center console boats for only a few passengers at a time, and much bigger center consoles that can hold passenger numbers in the double-digits. Consider how many people you may want to bring along with you at any one time so that you can get a boat that has enough deck space and seating room for everyone to be comfortable.

Next, you’ll want to think about where you plan to boat. If you’re sticking to calmer inland waterways, a smaller boat will be just fine, but you’re going to want a much larger center console boat if you want to head out into the Gulf of Mexico or onto the Atlantic Ocean.

Finally, think about what types of amenities you may need from your boat depending on how you’ll use it. Fishers will want features like livewells, swivel seats, coolers and rod holders. Watersports towers will need a towing eye and ballast, along with cruise-control and other useful features. If you plan to go on longer excursions, you’ll probably want a cabin with a head (bathroom) and maybe even some sleeping berths.

Ready to see some models for yourself? Browse our website to check out the wide variety of new and used center console boats for sale at our location in Stapleton, AL. L&M Marine proudly serves the cities of Mobile, AL, and Pensacola, FL.