2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage Boat in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 US

$229,900

$235,000

Used
builtBuilt in 2021
Year the boat was built
model

280 Vantage

Boat model
engine

2 Engines (2x Mercury)

Engine type and count
length

28 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Gas

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
27.75ft
Beam
9.5ft
Max Bridge Clearance
9.08ft
Drive Up Draft
1.75ft
Deadrise At Transom
21deg
Dry Weight
6700lb
Heads
1
Max Passengers
12
Max Capacity
3911
Fresh Water Tanks
20gal
Fuel Tanks
185gal
Holding Tanks
6gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
modified-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
V8
Total Power
300hp
Engine Hours
300
Engine Type
outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
V8
Total Power
300hp
Engine Hours
300
Engine Type
outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Standard Equipment
  • All hardware 316-L stainless steel
  • All rails welded 316-L stainless steel
Deck/Cockpit
  • 28” cockpit depth
  • 8” stainless steel cleats – bow (2), pop-up stern (2), pop-up spring line (2)
  • Anchor windlass with 200’ of rode, chain and anchor
  • Bow and stern eyes
  • Cockpit coaming bolsters
  • Cockpit courtesy lights – dual color blue/white
  • Covered telescoping swim ladder with stainless steel grab rail
  • Drink holders (12)
  • Heavy-duty rub rail
  • Insulated in-floor fishboxes with pump-out (2) (located aft) (25 gallons)
  • Livewell with light (19 gallons)
  • Molded fiberglass port side dive/boarding door with removable stainless-steel dive ladder and deployable grab rail
  • Motorwell drains
  • Rod holders (gunnel-mounted, stainless steel) (3)
  • Self-bailing cockpit sole
  • Stainless steel grab rails
  • Transom door with stainless steel latch
Cockpit Utility Center
  • Coaming pocket with courtesy light and drink holders (2)
  • Sink with freshwater faucet
  • Starboard aft facing seat with integrated cooler (11 gallons)
  • Stainless steel grab rail
  • Integrated storage (deleted with refrigerator)
Bow Area
  • Bow bolster
  • Bow cushions with backrests
  • Bow walkthrough block off panel
  • Drink holders (4)
  • Fiberglass lids with latches (3)
  • Integrated centerline bow cooler (12 gallons)
  • Recessed storage / cup holder compartment
  • Welded stainless steel forward side rails
  • USB charging receptacle (dual)
Console
  • 12V receptacle
  • Access panel to electronics
  • Cast stainless steel steering wheel with urethane grip
  • Compass
  • Courtesy light
  • Dash visor
  • Drink holders (2)
  • Electronics mounting surface
  • Helm and companion footrests
  • Electrical switch panel with circuit breaker protection
  • Storage bucket
  • Tempered bonded glass windshield
  • Trash door
  • Windshield wiper (starboard)
Head
  • Dash visor
  • Decorative floor inlay
  • Interior light
  • Gasketed lockable entry door with dual gaskets and draw down latch
  • Molded fiberglass console liner
  • Portable head with pump-out
  • Sink with faucet and Corian countertop
  • Stainless steel grab rail
  • Stainless steel storage hooks (2)
  • Storage locker
  • Storage inboard with material keeper
Seating
  • Aft facing seating at starboard prep station
  • Bow seating area with lounge backrests and armrests (port and starboard)
  • Convertible port lounge seat with gasketed storage
  • Deluxe custom Boston Whaler helm seat with high/low pedestal
  • Fold-out stern seat with backrest
Storage
  • Bow anchor locker with drain and windlass
  • Captain’s pocket storage with USB outlet below the dash
  • Cockpit storage center
  • Console storage with stainless steel latch
  • Head storage compartment
  • Insulated bow storage lockers (port and starboard with overboard drains)
  • Centerline insulated cooler with overboard drain
Mechanical
  • 250 V8 Black Dual Mercury Verado engines with hydraulic power steering
  • Automatic bilge pump
  • Battery trays (4)
  • Electric horn
  • Freshwater system (20 gallons) with bow and stern sprayers
  • Fuel tank (185 gallons)
  • LED navigation lights
  • Livewell (19 gallons) (located transom, port side)
  • Recessed electric trim tabs with indicators
  • SmartCraft deluxe gauge package
  • Stainless steel propellers
  • Tilt steering
  • Transducer mount area
Fiberglass Hardtop
  • Grab rails (located on centerline, stainless steel) (2)
  • Lighting – LED navigation lights
  • Lighting – LED overhead courtesy lighting (blue) (4)
  • Lighting – LED courtesy map light (red/white) (1)
  • Rod holders (4)
  • Tow bit
  • Welded aluminum integrated frame with tempered glass windshield
DEALERSHIP DETAILS

World Cat of South Florida with locations in Fort Lauderdale, Naples and Stuart: The Nation's leading dealership for World Cat sales and service for almost 20 years. Your Award Winning Sales and Service Dealer of the Year, Customer Service Award Winner.   

Our 5-star team is here to serve you with World Cat new and used boat sales, custom options, premium outboard service and quality products to Martin, Palm Beach, Broward, Dade and Collier Counties. 

Top exporter of World Cats to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. That's right - We Export! 

Contact us before you decide to buy another boat.  The proof is in the ride and if you have never ridden a World Cat, our no pressure sales team will sign you up for your Ultimate Sea Trial.


Headquarters/Business Office - Fort Lauderdale Location #954 #765 #6256 located 2541 W State Road 84 (Marina Mile Blvd) just west of I-95 on the North side and you are welcome to stop by anytime.
Monday through Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm, Appointments Available for All Times.


Naples/Marco Location#239 #580 #8384 come see our indoor showroom at 2825 Davis Blvd in Naples 34104.
Monday through Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday and Sunday by Appointment


Stuart Indoor Showroom#772 #285 #7979 come see our inventory at 4001 SE Commerce Ave in Stuart 34997.
Monday through Friday 8am - 4pm, Saturday and Sunday by Appointment


QUALITY TRADES CONSIDERED! 

IN-HOUSE FINANCE ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

SE HABLA ESPANOL

Price History

DateEventPrice
10/19/26Price decreased$229,900(-2.2%)
10/1/26Initial price$235,000

Contact World Cat of South Florida

2541 West State Road 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33312

Boston Whaler 280 Vantage: BoatTEST Review

Reviewed by Jeff Hammond

Overview

The Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is a thoughtfully designed crossover boat that successfully balances spaciousness, functionality, and seaworthiness. It offers a versatile layout with ample seating and storage options, combined with a solid performance profile. This model addresses customer feedback by raising the bow for improved seaworthiness and incorporates features that enhance both comfort and utility.

Exterior Design and Deck Layout

The 280 Vantage features an open cockpit with generous dimensions—four feet fore and aft and seven feet, eight inches side to side—protected by 28-inch high bulwarks. Seating is abundant and adaptable, including a transom bench, a seat behind the refreshment center, and a versatile forward-facing seat that converts into an aft-facing chaise or sun pad. Storage is integrated beneath seating areas, with dedicated compartments for items such as a five-gallon bucket, bow table, and pedestal. The boat includes multiple reboarding options: a port-side dive door with an inward-opening ladder and swing-out handle, a concealed ladder on the starboard swim platform, and a bow ladder adjacent to a Lumar windlass and polished anchor setup. The bow seating wraps fully around with storage underneath, including a built-in cooler. Additional features include a freshwater shower near the ladder, stereo speakers integrated into the bulwarks, and a hardtop providing six feet, eight inches of clearance with grab rails, lighting, and enclosure capability.

Refreshment Center and Fishing Amenities

On the starboard side, the refreshment center is equipped with a Corian countertop, storage compartments, a removable section, and a sink that can be replaced with an electric grill. An electric refrigerator is located below the counter. Fishing features are well represented with a standard 19-gallon live well, two 25-gallon macerated fish boxes, and 12 rod holders around the boat, with options to add five more and rod storage beneath the starboard bow seating.

Helm and Operational Features

The helm is ergonomically designed with a soft-touch dash housing a compass and a 12-inch multifunction display integrated with twin Mercury outboards. Additional instrumentation includes a separate outboard display, Fusion stereo controls, rocker switches, VHF Raymarine radio, trim tab controls, and ignition switches. The helm seat is high-end, ventilated, with flip armrests and bolster, and offers swivel and slide adjustments. Storage cubbies with connectivity are conveniently placed, though padding for sensitive items would be beneficial. The mechanical room hatch in the cockpit provides access to power steering pumps, live well pumps, bilge pumps, batteries, and other essential systems, emphasizing ease of maintenance.

Private Accommodations and Head

The boat includes a head compartment with four feet, six inches of headroom and three feet of sitting headroom. It features a Corian countertop, laminated wood cabinetry, and a sink. The head door is secured with a magnetic catch and opens to provide convenient access.

Power and Performance

The 280 Vantage offers engine options ranging from twin 250 to twin 400 horsepower outboards. The test model was equipped with twin 300-horsepower Mercury Verado engines paired with advanced mid-sections and 16 by 20 echo-inertia props. The boat achieved a top speed of 56.7 miles per hour at 5,900 RPM. Optimal cruising speed was 32.9 miles per hour at 3,500 RPM, with a fuel consumption of 15.9 gallons per hour, resulting in a range of approximately 345 statute miles while maintaining a 10% fuel reserve from the 185-gallon capacity. Acceleration was brisk, with planing in 3.5 seconds, reaching 20 miles per hour in 5.8 seconds, and 30 miles per hour in 7.7 seconds. Handling characteristics were predictable and responsive, with no chine walk or sliding during turns, providing a stable and comfortable ride even through wakes.

Conclusion

The Boston Whaler 280 Vantage impresses with its combination of spacious and flexible design, thoughtful amenities, and strong performance. Its multiple seating configurations, ample storage, and fishing features make it a versatile platform for both leisure and sport. The ergonomic helm and well-considered mechanical access enhance usability and maintenance. Overall, the 280 Vantage delivers a well-rounded boating experience that meets the demands of diverse users without compromising on comfort or seaworthiness.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Overview from around the web 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

The 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is receiving rave reviews from customers for its perfect blend of style, performance, and versatility

Owners praise its spacious layout and dual-console design, which makes it ideal for both leisurely cruising and serious fishing. The comfortable seating arrangements, including premium quality upholstery and ample storage, provide a welcoming environment for family outings or entertaining friends. Many customers highlight the boat's robust performance, with twin engines delivering impressive power and fuel efficiency. The handling is noted to be smooth and responsive, allowing for confident navigation, whether in tight spaces or open waters. The cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features, such as the integrated Multi-Function Display, are frequently mentioned as enhancing the overall boating experience, offering easy access to navigation and entertainment options. Safety is another key aspect that resonates with owners, as they appreciate the boat's sturdy construction and thoughtful design elements like high gunnels and deep cockpits. Overall, the 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is celebrated as a reliable choice for both seasoned boaters and newcomers alike, providing an enjoyable and safe adventure on the water.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

Pros

Versatile Design: The 280 Vantage features a dual-console layout that offers flexibility for both cruising and fishing. Its spacious cockpit and comfortable seating make it ideal for social gatherings as well as serious fishing trips.

Sturdy Construction: Known for its Unsinkable™ engineering, the Boston Whaler maintains a high standard of durability and stability, making it a reliable choice for various water conditions.

Powerful Performance: Equipped with powerful engines, the 280 Vantage delivers impressive speed and acceleration, allowing for smooth navigation and enjoyable outings.

Comfortable Amenities: The boat is designed with comfort in mind, featuring well-appointed seating, a fully enclosed head, and a functional galley area, ensuring a pleasant experience for all passengers.

Advanced Technology: The 280 Vantage comes with modern electronics and navigation systems, offering enhanced control and ease of use for both novice and experienced boaters.

Ample Storage: With plenty of storage compartments throughout the boat, including dedicated fishing rod storage, the 280 Vantage allows you to keep gear organized and accessible.

Cons

Price Point: Compared to other boats in its class, the 280 Vantage can be on the higher end of the price spectrum, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Fuel Efficiency: While the performance is commendable, some users may find that the fuel consumption can be higher than expected, particularly with larger engine options.

Limited Walkaround Space: The dual-console design, while offering certain advantages, may slightly limit walkaround space compared to a traditional center console layout, making it less ideal for certain fishing scenarios.

Maintenance Costs: As with many well-equipped boats, maintenance and repairs can be more costly over time, particularly if you opt for premium upgrades.

Draft: The 280 Vantage has a deeper draft, which may restrict access to shallower waters and some docking locations, limiting where you can explore.

Made For

The 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is designed for the adventurous boater who seeks versatility and quality craftsmanship. This dual-console boat is perfect for families, fishing enthusiasts, and day-trippers who appreciate comfort and performance on the water. For families, the 280 Vantage offers ample seating, a spacious layout, and safety features that make it ideal for day outings and creating lasting memories. The thoughtful design includes a well-appointed cabin for brief escapes, complete with a head and versatile space for stowing gear. Fishing aficionados will find that the 280 Vantage is equipped for their needs, featuring plenty of rod storage, a livewell, and a dedicated fishing area, allowing for seamless transitions between relaxing and angling adventures. Whether you’re looking to explore coastal waters, enjoy a sunset cruise, or cast a line, the 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage combines style, functionality, and reliability to cater to your boating lifestyle. Embrace the freedom of the water in a vessel built for memorable outings, making it the perfect choice for anyone who values quality, versatility, and performance.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Dual Console cost in today's market, or how much does a Boston Whaler cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$195,415
Total Payment$349,394.76
Monthly payment
$1,455.81/mo

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Dual Console cost in today's market, or how much does a Boston Whaler cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
$
$
510152025
%
Principal Loan Amount$195,415
Total Payment$349,394.76
Monthly payment
$1,455.81/mo

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The Image of Boston Whaler 280 Vantage 2021 - 02021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage
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Nominal Length28'28'32'32'28'32'
Engine MakeMercuryMercuryMercuryMercuryMercuryMercury
Total Engine Power300 hp400 hp-300 hp300 hp350 hp
Days on Market212063913411141
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Address

2541 West State Road 84
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

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