2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer

The 281 Coastal Explorer is a 28-foot center console built on Grady-White's SeaV² hull, designed to handle both shallow inshore waters and deep offshore conditions. Twin Yamaha F300XSB4 engines power the boat, paired with a Helmaster Joystick for intuitive maneuvering. The hull is hand-laid fiberglass with a composite stringer system and water-impervious transom, finished in Celestial Blue with a matching hardtop underside.

The boat combines fishing capability with family comfort. A portside electric fold-down platform with stowable ladder and a reconfigurable aft bench seat anchor the cockpit layout. The bow features cushioned seating with adjustable backrests. Below, a console head includes a marine toilet with electric flush, a 10-gallon holding tank with macerator, and lockable storage. A large 296-quart cooler sits under the forward console seat.

Fishing features are extensive: a 38-gallon livewell with 1100 GPH pump and a second 18-gallon aft livewell, dual 70-quart forward fish boxes, eight rod holders aft and amidships, two horizontal rod storage racks, and a rigging station with freshwater shower, cutting board, and bait locker. Hydraulic trim tabs, an anchor windlass with remote controls, and dual 2600 GPH automatic bilge pumps provide operational capability. Navigation electronics include dual Garmin 1643XSV displays and a Garmin 115 VHF radio. Additional equipment includes underwater lights and a custom-fit Magic Tilt trailer.