2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage
$274,000
Boat in Morehead City, NC 28557 US
Built in 2021
280 Vantage
2 Engines (2x Mercury)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
If you are looking for a boat that can truly do it all this 280 Vantage is rigged and ready for family fun as well trips offshore. Options Include:
Twin Mercury v8 300 Joystick 226hrs Port, 233hrs Stbd
Painted Hull
Beach Boarding Ladder
Side Door
Summer Kitchen (Grill and Refrigerator)
Cockpit Table
Hardtop Rod Holders
TACO GS390 Outriggers
Raw Water
Air Compressor
Weather Curtains
Premium Audio Package
Vaccuflush Head
Garmin 8616XSV
Garmin 424XHD Open Array Radar
1kw Thru-Hull Transducer
Carbon Fiber Outriggers
Engine Downloads Available
The 280 Vantage builds on the legacy of the award-winning Vantage series, delivering exceptional stability, comfort and ease of operation. With its family-friendly dual-console layout and smart, convertible seating, the 280 provides plenty of space for everyone to stretch out and relax. Try a new activity, or try a whole range of them: The 280 Vantage is an all-access pass to everything your family wants to do on the water, from discovering remote beaches to finding thrills at the end of a towrope or fishing line.
- Sleek, redesigned bow available with both windlass and boarding ladder
- Convertible portside lounge seating adjusts to an array of configurations
- Easy access from the dock or the water via the standard portside dive door
- Integrated hardtop and windshield provide great weather protection and clear visibility
- Hardtop can be equipped with an electrically actuated cockpit Sureshade
- Dedicated fishing features include cockpit fishboxes, transom livewell and strategically-placed rod holders
- Cockpit grill station makes for easy entertaining and stows away when not in use
- All hardware 316-L stainless steel
- All rails welded 316-L stainless steel
- 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
- 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 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)
- 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)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 6/28/25 | Initial price | $274,000 |
2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
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.
Overview from around the web 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage
Customers praise the 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage for its exceptional versatility and reliable performance
Many highlight its smooth ride and stability, even in choppy waters, making it a favorite for both fishing and family outings. The spacious and well-thought-out deck layout receives positive remarks for providing ample seating and storage, enhancing comfort and convenience on board. Additionally, users appreciate the high-quality construction and attention to detail that Boston Whaler is known for, noting the boat’s durability and ease of maintenance. Overall, the 280 Vantage is celebrated for blending sportiness with practicality, appealing to a wide range of boating enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is a versatile and well-regarded dual-console boat that offers a range of features suitable for fishing, cruising, and watersports. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Versatile Design: The 280 Vantage is designed to function well both as a fishing boat and a family cruiser, with ample seating and fishing amenities.
Build Quality: Boston Whaler is known for its unsinkable hull construction, providing excellent safety and durability.
Spacious Layout: The boat offers comfortable seating for up to 10 passengers, with well-thought-out storage compartments and a roomy cockpit.
Performance: Equipped with twin outboard engines, the 280 Vantage delivers strong performance, smooth handling, and good fuel efficiency.
Fishing Features: Includes rod holders, livewells, and a bait prep station, making it a great choice for anglers.
Comfort: Features such as a head compartment, a convertible sun lounge, and optional T-top add to passenger comfort.
Technology: Comes with modern electronics and navigation systems for ease of use and safety.
Cons
Price: As a premium boat with advanced features and build quality, the 280 Vantage may be priced higher than some competitors.
Size: While spacious, the boat's size may limit maneuverability in tight marina spaces compared to smaller models.
Fuel Consumption: Twin engines provide power but can lead to higher fuel consumption, especially at top speeds.
Optional Add-Ons: Some desirable features, such as advanced electronics or additional comfort options, may come at an extra cost.
Storage Limitations: Despite good storage, longer trips with a lot of gear may require careful organization.
Made For
The 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile, high-performance vessel that combines comfort, functionality, and safety. Ideal for families and groups who enjoy fishing, cruising, and watersports, this boat offers ample seating, ample storage, and advanced features to accommodate both leisurely day trips and active adventures on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to the sport, the 280 Vantage provides a reliable and enjoyable experience for a wide range of recreational activities.
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Other Boston Whaler 280 Vantage boats for sale in North Carolina, United States
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Starling Marine about 2021 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage
4957 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC, 28557
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