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2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage Sold Boat in Excelsior, MN 55331 US

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builtBuilt in 2025
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

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The Image of Boston Whaler 280 Vantage 2025 - 02025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage
PricePrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on requestPrice on request
LocationExcelsiorRogersExcelsiorCrosslakeCrosslakeNisswa
Nominal Length28'28'27'28'25'21'
Engine MakeMERCURYMERCURYMERCRUISEROTHERMERCRUISERMERCRUISER
Total Engine Power300 hp300 hp350 hp430 hp380 hp200 hp
Days on Market39615374455181
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Other Boston Whaler 280 Vantage boats for sale in Minnesota, United States

Nominal Length
28ft
Length Overall
27ft
Beam
9.5ft
Dry Weight
6940lb
Fuel Tanks
180gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
other
Engine 1
Engine Make
MERCURY
Engine Model
300 JPO V8 AMS
Total Power
300hp
Fuel Type
gasoline
Engine 2
Engine Make
MERCURY
Engine Model
300 JPO V8 AMS
Total Power
300hp
Fuel Type
gasoline

Videos from MarineMax Excelsior on this 2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

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Excelsior, MN, 55331

Boston Whaler 280 Vantage: BoatTEST Review

Reviewed by Jeff Hammond

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.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Overview from around the web 2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage

The Boston Whaler 280 Vantage has garnered positive feedback from customers who appreciate its versatility, performance, and design

Users often highlight the boat’s spacious layout, which seamlessly blends comfort and functionality, making it ideal for both relaxing outings and fishing trips. Customers rave about the dual-console design, which offers plenty of seating and a well-thought-out helm area. Many appreciate the ample storage space, allowing for easy organization of gear and supplies. The high-quality finish and durable construction are frequently mentioned, reinforcing Boston Whaler’s reputation for reliability. Performance-wise, users commend the 280 Vantage's impressive handling and stability in various water conditions. The boat’s power and fuel efficiency are also common points of praise, making it an excellent choice for extended cruises. Overall, owners of the 2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage express satisfaction with their investment, often reflecting on the boat's ability to create memorable experiences on the water with family and friends.

Made For

The 2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is designed for the discerning boater who values versatility, comfort, and performance. Whether you're a family looking for a fun day on the water, an angler seeking the best catch, or a socialite wanting to entertain friends, this model caters to diverse lifestyles. With its spacious dual-console layout, the 280 Vantage provides ample seating and storage, making it ideal for family outings, picnics, or leisurely cruising. The onboard amenities, including a fully-equipped galley and ample headroom, ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers. For the fishing enthusiast, the 280 Vantage features dedicated fishing capabilities alongside leisure options, such as rod holders, livewells, and fish boxes, so you can transition seamlessly from cruising to casting. More than just a boat, the 2025 Boston Whaler 280 Vantage is a versatile platform for adventure, relaxation, and family bonding, making it suitable for anyone looking to enjoy the freedom and joy that comes with life on the water.

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Excelsior, MN 55331

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