2023 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

$239,990

Used

Boat in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 US

builtBuilt in 2023
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
29.08ft
Beam
9.5ft
Max Bridge Clearance
8.42ft
Drive Up Draft
1.75ft
Deadrise At Transom
21deg
Dry Weight
6940lb
Max Passengers
12
Max Capacity
3911
Fresh Water Tanks
20gal
Fuel Tanks
180gal
Holding Tanks
6gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
modified-vee
Engine 1
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
V8
Total Power
300hp
Engine Hours
180
Engine Type
outboard
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine 2
Engine Make
Mercury
Engine Model
V8
Total Power
300hp
Engine Hours
180
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) (white or black depending on frame color selection)
  • Tow bit (white or black depending on frame color selection)
  • Welded aluminum integrated frame with tempered glass windshield (white or black depending on frame color selection)
Vessel View Mobile
  • Display key engine data on your smartphone (Android or Apple iPhone)
  • Bluetooth connection via Vessel View Mobile app (compatible while connected to stereo)
  • Troubleshooting assistance with dealer notification
Engine Notes

Additional Mercury options available.

Disclaimer

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

DateEventPrice
9/6/25Initial price$239,990

Contact Rick Obey Yacht Sales

3621 W State Road 84, Davie, FL, 33312

Boattest.com Review

Boat Test Review on BoatTest.com

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 2023 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

Customers are praising the 2023 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage for its exceptional versatility and performance

Many highlight its smooth and stable ride, even in choppy waters, making it ideal for both family outings and fishing adventures. The spacious layout and thoughtful design features, such as ample seating and storage, receive frequent compliments for enhancing comfort and convenience on board. Additionally, users appreciate the boat’s high-quality construction and reliable handling, which contribute to an overall sense of safety and confidence while cruising. The 280 Vantage’s blend of power, style, and functionality continues to make it a favorite among boating enthusiasts.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 2023 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage offers a compelling blend of performance, versatility, and comfort, making it a popular choice among boating enthusiasts. Here are some of the key pros and cons:

Pros

Exceptional Build Quality: As with all Boston Whalers, the 280 Vantage boasts a robust, unsinkable hull design that ensures safety and durability.

Versatile Layout: The boat’s design accommodates a variety of activities, from fishing and watersports to family cruising, with ample seating and thoughtful storage options.

Powerful Performance: Equipped with twin outboard engines, it delivers impressive speed and handling, making it suitable for both calm waters and choppier conditions.

Comfort Features: The 280 Vantage includes amenities such as a spacious cabin with sleeping quarters, a well-appointed helm, and a convertible sun lounge, enhancing overall onboard comfort.

Advanced Electronics: Modern navigation and control systems provide ease of operation and increased safety.

Ample Storage: Plenty of compartments and fish boxes keep gear organized and accessible.

Cons

Price Point: The 280 Vantage is positioned in the premium segment, which may be a significant investment compared to some competitors.

Fuel Consumption: The twin-engine setup, while powerful, can result in higher fuel usage during extended trips or high-speed runs.

Cabin Space: While comfortable for day trips and short overnight stays, the cabin may feel compact for longer-term cruising or larger groups.

Limited Customization: Some users may find the factory options somewhat limited if they seek highly specialized configurations.

Made For

The 2023 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is designed for boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and reliable vessel that excels in both fishing and cruising. Ideal for families and groups looking for comfort, performance, and safety on the water, this boat caters to those who enjoy a day of offshore fishing, watersports, or leisurely coastal adventures. Its blend of innovative features and classic Boston Whaler durability makes it perfect for anyone wanting a high-quality, all-purpose boat that delivers exceptional handling and ample space for passengers and gear.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2023 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.
Monthly payment
$1,519.70/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 203,991
Total Payment$364,728.33

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 2023 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.
Monthly payment
$1,519.70/mo
$
$
%
Principal Loan Amount$ 203,991
Total Payment$364,728.33

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Meet the Broker

Address

3621 W State Road 84
Davie, FL 33312

Boat Location

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