1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless Boat in Bayfield, WI 54814 US
Built in 1996
170 Dauntless
1 Engine (Honda)
17 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The Dauntless 17 is a side console open powerboat perfect for day-cruising, water skiing and fishing. Built of unsinkable and a stout fiberglass construction process, she has a Deep Vee hull and can handle a variety of conditions with comfort. Her helm is side mount to starboard with a swivel seat and across is another like it. You can walk through to the bow by opening the center window on the wrap-around windshield. There are two forward facing seats on the bow right in front of the windshield and a wide cushioned seat spread across the bow facing aft. She can easily seat 7 people. This boat is well equipped and ready to go. Boating Magazine 1996 Boat of the Year. The outboard has just been updated to a Honda 130 HP 4-stroke (BF130). Very recent compression test reveals that it tested 180-190. Anything between 170 and 228 PSI is considered normal. This is a strong outboard.
130 HP Honda 4-stroke w/39 gallons fuel
1996 EZ Loader Galvanized Trailer
Compass
Speed & Depth
VHF Radio
Chart Plotter
Fishing Station
12v Electrical System w/Nav Lights
Bow Rail
Bow Cushions
Cockpit Table
Ski Pylon
Ski Rack
Swim Platform w/foldable stairs & rail
Kicker Motor Mount
Red Tonneau Cover
Red Bimini Sun Top
Red Aft Cockpit Cover
Bilge Pump
2 Life Jackets
Horn
Type IV Throwable PFD
Fire Extinguisher
Bow & Stern Dock Lines
2 Boat Fenders
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/18/26 | Initial price | $16,900 |
1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless Video Tours
Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless is designed to seamlessly transition between fishing and water sports, offering versatility and performance in a compact package. Its hull design and operational features cater to both recreational and practical boating needs.
Exterior Design and Deck Features
The 170 Dauntless features a hull with a 14-degree dead rise at the stern combined with a flat keel, resulting in a shallow draft of just 11 inches. This shallow draft facilitates beaching and accessing remote fishing spots. The bow presents a deep V with chines extending fully forward to form spray rails, effectively keeping the ride dry by deflecting spray away from the crew. Operational details include 8-inch cleats mounted at an angle around the boat to eliminate the need for chafing gear, large deck drains for rapid cockpit dewatering, and a forward anchor locker with an additional cleat for securing ground tackle.
Helm and Console Layout
The helm seat on the 170 Dauntless is notably comfortable and versatile, allowing multiple seating positions including fully aft, partially forward for upright driving, forward with the seat back serving as a leaning post, and a reversible position facing aft for line watching. The center console is straightforward and functional, with the helm positioned to port and an instrument panel aligned with the helm. The panel includes three analog gauges, rocker switches, and circuit breakers. Optional equipment on the test boat included hydraulic steering, a stereo system, and a VHF radio. The console also offers ample space for GPS/Fishfinder units, either 5.5-inch or 7-inch models. A grab handle encircles the console and windshield, providing secure handholds for operation and movement around the boat.
Power and Performance
Powered by a 90-horsepower Mercury 4-stroke engine, the 170 Dauntless has an empty weight of 1,750 pounds. With full fuel, engine, and two people aboard in test gear, the test weight was 2,780 pounds. The boat achieved a top speed of 42.2 mph at 6,000 RPM, consuming 10 gallons per hour and delivering 4.2 miles per gallon for a range of approximately 133 miles. The most efficient cruising speed was 21 mph at 3,500 RPM, burning 3.2 gallons per hour and yielding 6.6 miles per gallon, extending the range to 207 miles. Acceleration was brisk, reaching planing speed in 2.8 seconds and 30 mph in 11 seconds. Handling was responsive and comfortable, with slight banking during turns that did not cause discomfort or instability. The absence of a deep keel contributes to the boat's docile and manageable handling characteristics.
Ride Comfort and Stability
The 170 Dauntless offers exceptional stability and a dry ride, largely due to the forward-reaching chines that form effective spray rails. During testing, no spray was observed coming over the rails regardless of speed or angle through wakes. The boat's solid stability and comfortable handling make it a pleasure to operate in various conditions.
Conclusion
The Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless impresses as a versatile, well-designed boat that balances fishing functionality with recreational water sports capability. Its shallow draft, responsive handling, comfortable helm seating, and dry ride characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of boating activities. Overall, it delivers a stable, enjoyable experience on the water.
Overview from around the web 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless
Customers rave about the 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless for its impressive versatility and sturdy build
Many users appreciate the boat's well-known unsinkable design, providing peace of mind when out on the water. The 170 Dauntless is often praised for its stable ride and ability to handle a variety of conditions, making it a great choice for both experienced boaters and newcomers alike. Owners highlight the spacious layout, which comfortably accommodates friends and family, whether for fishing trips, cruising, or watersports. With ample storage options, many find it easy to keep their gear organized and accessible. The boat's powerful motor options and responsive handling further enhance the overall experience, allowing for enjoyable days on lakes, rivers, or coastal waters. Overall, the 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless earns high marks for its combination of reliability, comfort, and functionality, solidifying its reputation as a favorite among boating enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Unsinkable Construction: The 170 Dauntless features Boston Whaler's renowned unsinkable hull design, providing peace of mind on the water.
Versatile Performance: This model delivers impressive performance in a variety of conditions, making it suitable for fishing, watersports, and leisurely cruising.
Spacious Layout: With ample deck space and versatile seating arrangements, the 170 Dauntless can accommodate family and friends comfortably.
Quality and Durability: Constructed with high-quality materials, the boat is built to withstand the rigors of marine environments, ensuring longevity.
Efficient Fuel Economy: The boat’s hull design and size offer efficient fuel consumption, making it economical for longer outings.
Trailerability: The compact size of the 170 Dauntless allows for easy trailering, giving owners the flexibility to explore different waterways.
Cons
Limited Storage: While the layout is spacious, storage options can be somewhat limited compared to larger models, which may affect longer trips.
Age-Related Wear: Being a 1996 model, it may require more maintenance and potential updates to keep it in optimal condition, depending on previous ownership.
Basic Features: Some modern amenities and technologies may be lacking, which may not meet the expectations of those looking for advanced features.
Smaller Size: While the compact design aids in maneuverability, it may feel cramped for larger groups or during extended outings.
Seating Capacity: The boat may have limits on seating capacity compared to larger vessels, which could impact larger family outings or social gatherings.
Made For
The 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless is an ideal choice for a diverse range of boating enthusiasts. This versatile boat is perfect for families looking to enjoy leisurely outings on the water, whether it's fishing, cruising, or exploring marine environments. Its spacious layout accommodates several passengers comfortably, making it great for family adventures or outings with friends. Anglers will appreciate the 170 Dauntless for its functionality and storage options, including live wells and rod holders, making fishing trips both convenient and enjoyable. For those interested in water sports, the boat’s stable design and powerful engine options ensure a thrilling experience for wakeboarding, tubing, or simply enjoying some fun in the sun. Additionally, the 170 Dauntless appeals to both novice and experienced boaters, thanks to its user-friendly features and reputation for safety. Its unsinkable hull design, a hallmark of Boston Whaler, offers peace of mind on the water, making it a great choice for coastal exploration and calm lake excursions alike. In summary, the 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless is well-suited for families, recreational boaters, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone keen to enjoy a reliable and versatile watercraft that stands the test of time.
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 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $16,900 | $16,500 | $22,595 | $8,400 | $28,060 | $29,990 |
| Location | Bayfield | Fontana | Kenosha | Racine | Nekoosa | Sullivan |
| Nominal Length | 17' | 19' | 23' | 13' | 16' | 18' |
| Engine Make | Honda | Mercury | MERCURY | Mercury | Mercury | Evinrude |
| Total Engine Power | 130 hp | 125 hp | 320 hp | 40 hp | - | 150 hp |
| Days on Market | 23 | 19 | 148 | 47 | 18 | 34 |
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Contact Hooper's Yachts about 1996 Boston Whaler 170 Dauntless
871 Tamarack Lane, Hudson, WI, 54016
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