2016 Boston Whaler 285 Conquest Boat in Bellmore, NY US

2016 SPECIFICATIONS
> L.O.A.: 27’ 10” (8.51 m)
> Beam: 9’ 6” (2.90 m)
> Draft (hull only): 20” (0.50 m)
> Weight (dry, no engine): 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg)
> Maximum Weight Capacity: 3,968 lbs (1,800 kg)
> Swamped Capacity: 2,100 lbs (952 kg)
> Persons Capacity: 12
> Maximum Horsepower: 500 hp (372 kW)
> Minimum Horsepower: 450 hp (336 kW)
> Deadrise at Transom: 20°
> Fuel Capacity: 200 gallons (757 L)
> Maximum Engine Weight: 1,400 lbs (635 kg)
> Transom Height: 25” (0.63 m)
> Water Capacity: 30 gallons (113.5 L)
> Waste Capacity: 6.5 gallons (24.6 L)
> Bridge Clearance with Hard-top: 8’ 10” (2.69 m)
> Bridge Clearance with Radar and Spotlight: 9’ 4” (2.84 m)
STANDARD EQUIPMENT
All hardware 316-L stainless steel
All rails welded 316-L stainless steel
DECK / COCKPIT
12-V receptacle
28” interior freeboard
8” stainless steel cleats – bow (2), spring line (2),
stern with hawse pipes (2), anchor (1)
Acrylic transom door
Bow and stern lifting eyes
Cockpit coaming bolsters
Cockpit prep center with sink and storage
Cockpit shower
Covered telescoping stainless steel swim ladder with
stainless steel grab rail
Drink holders (8)
Gunnel mounted stainless steel rod holders (4)
Heavy-duty rub rail
Raw water washdown with coil hose storage
Self-bailing cockpit
Stainless steel anchor roller assembly with safety
lanyard
Stainless steel cockpit toe rails
Stainless steel grab rails
Stern stainless steel hawse pipes with drink holders
Transom mounted stainless steel rod holders (3)
Welded stainless steel bow rail
Windshield and hard-top system includes:
Cockpit floodlight, dome light and rod holders (4)
Integrated windshield and hard-top
Speakers (2)
Stainless steel grab rails along sides
Tempered glass full front windshield with electric vent
Windshield wash system
Windshield wipers (port and starboard)
CONSOLE
12-V receptacle
Captain’s storage compartment
Compass
Dual level molded-in footrests
Instrumentation and electrical switch panels with
circuit breaker protection
Stainless steel steering wheel with knob
GALLEY
110-V outlet
12-V / 120-V refrigerator
Corian solid surface countertop
Galley sink with faucet and cutting board
Microwave
Skylight over galley
Trash receptacle (under c-way step)
Wood grain galley cabinetry
SEATING
Convertible port seat / lounge
Aft facing seat
Aft seating with reversible backrest
Cooler storage
Lounge filler
Foldaway stern bench seat
Helm seat with cushions and adjustable slider
STORAGE
Battery storage
Bow anchor locker with drain
Bow storage lockers under V-berth
Cabin interior rod racks (4)
Galley storage
In-deck fishboxes with drain and pump-out (2)
Port tackle / storage at port lounge seat (3 drawers
with pullout footrest)
Starboard storage at bait prep station (open storage –
filler cushion storage and 5-gallon bucket)
Under gunnel rod racks (4)
HEAD
500 GPH shower sump-pump
Hanging storage
Lighting
Mirror
Opening porthole with screen
Shelf with stainless steel retainer rail
Stainless steel sink with pressurized water system and
pullout shower
Storage area (aft bulkhead and under countertop)
VacuFlush™ head with holding tank (6.5 gallons),
dockside pump-out and overboard discharge CABIN INTERIOR
12-V receptacles (cabin and mid berth)
Cabin lights (5)
Carbon monoxide detector
Dinette table with gas-assist base
Drink holders (3) (forward berth)
Easy clean interior materials
Forward berth cushions with backrest
Lockable sliding acrylic cabin door
Mid double berth
Opening hatch with screen
Opening portholes with screens – galley (1), mid berth (1)
Stereo – Fusion® AM/FM, iPod controls, waterproof
speakers (2 in cabin, 2 in cockpit), remote control, and MP3
input (Fusion Bluetooth enabled)(Fusion integration into
Raymarine with navigation package)
V-berth filler cushions
MECHANICAL
225 CXL L6 DTS Dual Mercury® Verado FourStroke engines
with SmartCraft Deluxe Gauge Package and power steering
Anchor windlass (low profile with rode and anchor) (FR
1,000 W)
Automatic bilge pumps (1,100 GPH forward, 2,000 GPH
aft)
Battery trays with switches (3)
Cockpit lighting (blue/white LED)
Electric horn
Electric trim tabs with indicator
Engine fuel / water separators
Fuel tank (200 gallons)
High water bilge pump with alarm
Insulated livewell with light, raw water fill, blue interior and
flow control
Navigation lights
Pressurized freshwater system
Raw water washdown with coil hose storage
Shore power with battery charger and galvanic isolator
(ELCI system)
Stainless steel propellers
Stainless steel thru hulls
Tilt steering
Transducer mount area
NOTABLE OPTIONS /
ACCESSORIES
12-V DC receptacles at transom for electric reels / downriggers (2)
250 CXL L6 DTS Dual Mercury Verado FourStroke engines
with Joystick Piloting; outboard docking system with
joystick, electronic steering, Skyhook/autopilot keypad
and functionality (Raymarine or other standalone optional
autopilots not permitted with Joystick Piloting)(Vessel
View 4 display included)
250 CXL L6 DTS Dual Mercury Verado FourStroke engines
with power steering
Aft cockpit sunshade (black or blue)
Air conditioning (reverse cycle 7,000 BTU)
Anchor windlass chain (150’)
Bow sunshade
Bow thruster (12-V)
Cockpit foldout bench seat (port side) (deletes rod racks)
Cockpit foldout bench seat (starboard side) (deletes rod
racks)
Cockpit refrigerator with Corian countertop (not compatible with diesel heater system)
Cockpit table
Fold-down trolling seat (port side) (deletes rod racks)
Fold-down trolling seat (starboard side) (deletes rod racks)
Full side glass (integrated with aft legs and hard-top)
Heater system – diesel (not compatible with cockpit
refrigerator)
Helm deck table with Corian countertop
Privacy curtain (mid cabin) (included in cabin comfort
package)
Radial outriggers (hard-top mounted) (black)
Red, blue or black graphics, striping and logos
Satellite radio – Sirius® satellite receiver with antenna
Split bow rail (replaces standard bow rail)
Spotlight
Sun lounge
Underwater LED lighting
ENTERTAINMENT PACKAGE
19” flat screen HDTV (12-V)
DVD player
TV cable input
CABIN COMFORT PACKAGE
Forward berth includes:
Fitted sheet
Flat sheet
Pillow cases, standard size (2)
Mid berth includes:
Comforter
Fitted sheet
Flat sheet
Pillow cases, standard size (2)
Pillow shams, standard size (2)
Privacy curtain
PREMIUM PACKAGE
Storage baskets (2) in mid cabin
Vessel View 4” Display (network connection to Raymarine
with Navigation Package)
Interior lighting upgrade includes:
Reading light in forward berth
Reading light in mid berth
Premium audio package:
400 watt stereo amp
Cockpit speaker upgrade (2)
CRUISING PACKAGE
Dockside hook-up for water system
Electric single burner stove
Water heater
12” RAYMARINE® E127 ELECTRONICS / NAVIGATION
PACKAGE
600 watt thru hull transducer
Raymarine E127, 12.1” screen (GPS, chart plotter, fishfinder)
Raymarine Ray260 modular VHF system
Available Chart Cards:
Lighthouse Charting – US – Coastal
15” RAYMARINE® E165 ELECTRONICS / NAVIGATION
PACKAGE
1000 watt thru hull transducer
Raymarine E165, 15.4” screen (GPS, chart plotter, fishfinder)
Raymarine Ray260 modular VHF system
Available Chart Cards:
Lighthouse Charting – US – Coastal

With the Boston Whaler 285 Conquest, anything is possible, thanks to comfort-minded features and amenities geared for active day cruises, serious fishing runs and impromptu overnighting. Offshore trips are a pleasure thanks to design details that maximize helm visibility, seating comfort, storage space and more. The boat's welcoming cabin sleeps four with a plush forward V-berth/dinette and a mid-cabin double berth, as well as optional HDTV, a deluxe galley and a private head. When you're not entertaining a crowd in the generous cockpit, go out and find the big fish: the 285 Conquest is fully equipped for offshore runs. Choose from three hard-top options to suit your own horizons; any which way, the Conquest is the perfect new fishing boat to conquer the day.

By Captain Steve
Mission Statement
The mission of the 285 Conquest is to combine a well-built boat with an offshore pedigree with the features that can handle a gathering of friends for cocktails or two couples or a small family on overnights. This continues a long-standing trend towards using fishing boats for cruising due to their sea-keeping abilities, dry ride, and protection from the elements.

Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
Our test boat was powered by twin 225-hp Mercury Verado 4-strokes. Mercury 250-hp Verados are optional ($3,957). Note the Downeast-style side windows.
Distinguishing Features
Some of the key unusual features of the 285 Conquest include:

Choose the Layout. Our test 285 Conquest featured a cockpit sink with the availability of an optional cockpit refrigerator ($1,416) which when combined really bring the cruising capabilities of this boat to light. One can also add a cockpit table ($1,812) and port and starboard fold-out bench seats ($1,573 each) to add to the seating provided by the aft fold-out bench seat.
Choose the Cabin Style. The helm deck can be outfitted with sloping Downeast-style side windows as on our test boat, or have windows that go all the way to the hardtop ($3,054). A third option is to go with a fully-enclosed helm deck including an aft bulkhead with door.
Clever Passenger Seating. On the port side of the helm deck there are booth-style seats facing forward and aft. A filler cushion turns the seats into a lounger, as one typically sees on most express boats, and the aft seat back will slide forward to form an aft-facing seat with a pull-out foot rest.

The standard flip-up transom bench seat stows and deploys easily. Notice the beefy stainless steel hardware. Picture one of these to port and starboard as options for entertaining.
Fully Foam-Cored Hull and Deck Bond. Boston Whaler makes the hull and deck with an expandable foam that bonds the two components together not just at the hull-deck joint around the perimeter of the vessel, but all over its deck surface. It's an unusual process and one that the boater can see in our Boston Whaler factory tour video.
Level Flotation. The USCG only requires boats 20' and under to float level when swamped. Those over 20' don't have to float at all under such conditions. Boston Whaler doesn't agree. The 285 Conquest not only floats if swamped, but Boston Whaler assures us that she'll float level as well.
28" (71.1 cm) Cockpit Depth. ABYC standards call for 24" (60.9 cm) of protection above a weather deck. Boston Whaler takes it a little further and adds another 4" (10 cm) of security.
A Division of Brunswick. The Brunswick Corp. is the largest single company in the marine business and owns over a dozen boat brands and makes both outboard and sterndrive engines as well. Boston Whaler is a leading Brunswick brand and as such has an infrastructure, business practices, and engineering departments that are more sophisticated than what one finds with many builders.

Boston Whaler has packed a lot of boat into 27’10” (8.51 m) and with her standard hardtop she will be able to take owners virtually anywhere they want to go.
Performance and Handling
The Boston Whaler 285 Conquest has a length overall of 27'10" (8.51 m), a beam of 9'6" (2.9 m) and a hull draft of 20” (.50 m). With a hull weight of 7,300 lbs. (3,311 kgs.), half fuel, two people and test power we had a test weight of 9,590 lbs. (4,349 kg). With a pair of 225-hp Mercury Verado 4-strokes powering our 285 Conquest, we reached a top speed at 6000 rpm bringing us to 43.8 mph. At that speed, we had a fuel burn of 47.05 gph for a range of 167 miles.

Cruising Speed.
Best cruise came in at 4000 rpm and 25.7 mph. Her fuel burn was 17.15 gph, giving us a range of 270 statute miles. The 285 Conquest had an average time to plane of 3.8 seconds; we reached 20 mph in 5.3 seconds and accelerated through 30 mph in 8.8 seconds.

Maneuvering
Upon acceleration, the 285 Conquest exhibits a 16-degree bow rise, which keeps the horizon in clear view. In a hard over turn, there is only a 10-degree roll that both the operator and passengers will find comfortable. When taking power off, the 285 Conquest will settle back into the water stern first and then the bow will come down shortly after. Remember, because there is a hardtop on the 285 Conquest the turn to starboard will produce no loss of visibility, but turns to port will bring the hardtop down into one's line of sight so be sure to clear the area first.

One can see how the hard chines are carried far forward to form spray rails that work effectively at low-speed or when plowing through offshore waves.
Power Choices
I found the 285 Conquest to be responsive to the helm both at cruise speed and at minimal speeds. Her hard chines gave her good stability and since they are carried so far forward to the bow, spray was kept low and thrown wide providing a dry ride. I found she also had excellent response to the throttle with the 225-hp Verados, so unless the boater really needs to add more speed to their 285, I think they’ll be happy with these engines over the optional 250 Verados ($3,957).

In a hard over turn, there is only a 10-degree roll that both the captain and the passengers will find comfortable.
Features Walkthrough
Bow.
At the bow, our 285 Conquest was equipped with the standard electric windlass and there's an option for swapping out the anchor line for an all-chain rode ($775). To the sides, 8" (20.3 cm) cleats are mounted well outside the toe rails eliminating the need for chafing gear or chocks. Our test boat was equipped with the standard bow rail and a split bow rail ($207) is offered as an option.

The galvanized anchor, stainless steel bow pulpit and electric windlass are all standard on the 285 Conquest.

The top of the trunk cabin is all nonskid and our test boat was not equipped with the optional sun lounge pad ($1,773) that converts the entire area into a sunning space.
Professional Windshield Treatment
Not being a big fan of isinglass, I really appreciate the standard hardtop with windshields that run up fully to integrate with the hardtop, much as one would see on a sport coupe design. Visibility is outstanding with narrow window mullions and at the top forward center is an electrically actuated windshield vent that does a remarkable job of scooping air into the helm deck. Windshield wipers with integral washers are standard.

The dual windshields run all the way up to the hardtop. In the center of the hardtop is an electrically actuated vent.
Side Decks
Transitioning to the cockpit is safe thanks to the 15 ½“ (39.4 cm) space between the rails and the cabin sides as well as the grab handles running along the hardtop, the aft ladder supports, and a step leading to the cockpit. Water, however, will not have such an easy trip into the cockpit as the side deck is molded to channel water that comes over the bow right back over the side just ahead of the midship cleat.

The side decks are easy to transition thanks to the high side rails, handrail running along the hardtop and ladder supports at the aft end of the hardtop.

Water coming over the bow gets channeled down the side decks and then overboard before reaching the cockpit.
Fishing Cockpit
The wide-open cockpit measures 54 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) and can be configured for cruising or fishing. The fishing amenities start with the standard transom-mounted insulated livewell. The acrylic lid is gasketed all the way around. There were optional electrical connections under the gunwales for the downriggers ($652) and at the bottom of the rod storage racks are toe rails to give you a little more security when fighting fish.

Fishboxes/Storage.
There are two sizable insulated fishboxes to either side of the cockpit, both with hatches that are Divinycell cored for lightweight, gasketed all the way around and supported by gas-assist struts. To either side of the cockpit, there's the option of having fold-down trolling seats ($952 ea), and the hardtop is set up for mounting the optional radial outriggers ($2,718).

The cockpit is large enough to accommodate either fishing or cruising; optional seating makes it a great gathering area.
Cruising Cockpit
Safety is, of course, a concern for Boston Whaler and the bolsters surrounding the cockpit start out at 21 ½” (54.6 cm) and top out at 28” (71.1 cm). All the way aft is a standard flip-out bench seat that I found easy to deploy. There are options for adding two more of the same bench seats to both the port and starboard bulwarks ($1,573 ea), which will turn the entire cockpit into a comfortable gathering area. The owner can also add a cockpit table with Flexiteek top for cockpit dining ($1,812). Forward is a sink with pullout sprayer and Corian countertop. There’s a conveniently located grab handle and storage is underneath, which can be optioned out for a cockpit refrigerator ($1,416). If a little more shade in the cockpit is desired, then simply add the optional retractable cockpit sunshade ($4,976) that manually extends and retracts from the back of the hardtop.

In the center of the cockpit deck is a mechanical room housing the ship’s batteries, pumps for the bilge, livewell and washdowns as well as the optional 7 kW generator ($14,984).
Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
The storage compartment below the sink can be swapped out for a cockpit refrigerator ($1,416). Notice the convenient step leading to the side decks.
Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
The sunshade manually retracts and extends from the aft end of the hardtop.
Transom
The starboard side transom boarding gate is up 9” (22.9 cm) from the main deck and leads to a modest swim platform with a recessed three-step reboarding ladder and stainless grab handle. A standard transom shower is plumbed to a 30-gallon (113.6 L) freshwater tank.

The port quarter insulated livewell is standard and can be used as a cooler if the boater decides to not use the 285 Conquest for fishing.
Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
Just abaft the transom is a convenient platform to stand on while servicing the engines.

Here’s a gathering point for some optional features. The optional cruising package ($1,712) includes dockside hook-up to the water system. The optional entertainment package ($2,021) includes a 19” (48.3 cm) flatscreen in the cabin with this cable TV input. We also have 12V DC receptacles for the electric downrigger reels ($652).
Port Helm Deck Seating
Stepping up to the helm deck, to the port side is an improvement over the regular lounge seating that is usually seen on express cruisers. Here we have booth-style seating that can accommodate a filler cushion to convert into a lounge. Additionally, the aft seat has a seatback on a slide that allows it to convert to an aft-facing seat with a pull-out step just below. This not only makes a welcome addition to the cockpit seating but can also serve as a place to watch the lines, or for that matter, the wake shrinking in the distance. In the "clever innovation" category, Boston Whaler has also created an optional table ($1,751) that will deploy between the opposing seats and stows neatly out of the way in the port side bulwarks.

The aft-facing seat at the helm deck features a pull-out footrest. Notice the track to slide the seatback fore and aft.
With a filler cushion between the seats, it creates the usual lounge configuration seen on many express cruisers.
Helm
I think Boston Whaler designers really had their act together when they created this comfortable pedestal mounted helm seat. It's heavily padded, vented at the back, swivels and slides, has cast flip-up armrests and a flip-up bolster. The main battery switches and breaker panel are located just underneath.

Instrument Panel.
The helm is straightforward thanks to the complete lack of gauges due to the SmartCraft VesselView display. Our test boat was fitted with the optional autopilot ($7,463) and 14” widescreen display. The stainless steel wheel is mounted to a tilt base, which I found extraordinarily comfortable in the full up position, like on a large convertible. To the right, I was happy to see that Mercury's digital throttle and shift system (DTS) was mounted on the horizontal and it offers a wide range of options such as single lever control and troll mode. All switches are waterproof and lighted when activated and our test boat was also fitted with the optional bow thruster ($7,019).

Tabs and Enclosures.
Trim tabs are standard but I never found the need to use them. This helm deck is offered in three configurations: First is the standard configuration that includes the open side windows that are reminiscent of a more Downeast design; Second you can get full glass up to the hardtop on the sides ($2,491), and third is the pilothouse design with an aft bulkhead and door.

I was very happy with this helm layout and with the VesselView display to the left, there is no need for gauges. Notice the wheel in the full up position, which is much like on a convertible sportfish.
Cabin
As we move down below, immediately to port is a modest galley with the usual amenities of microwave, single burner stove, sink and refrigerator. The single burner stove is actually part of an optional cruising package that also includes a dockside hook-up to the water system and a water heater ($1,712). Natural light comes in through hullside port lights and an overhead skylight. The ship’s electrical panel is located right next to the microwave.

The single-burner stove is part of the optional cruising package ($1,712).
Mid-Berth
Just aft is a mid-berth measuring 4' x 6' (1.22 m x 1.8 m) with a variable geometry overhead running from 1'9" (.53 m) to 2'5" (.74 m) and topping out at 4’ (1.22 m) at the entry. There's a leather headboard with storage just behind. Our test boat was fitted with the optional cabin comfort package ($2,778) that includes a comforter, sheets, pillowcases and a privacy curtain.

Clever Settee
Forward is a U-shaped settee with rod storage overhead and the rod holders flip-out of the way when not in use, which conveniently protects one's noggin. In the center of the settee is a dinette table with an extended leaf. In the collapsed position the leaf support doubles as a stainless grab handle. This entire area converts to a berth quite easily by lowering the table, extending the table, and sliding the cushions towards the center. On the aft bulkhead are flip-down garment hooks.
By lowering the table and sliding the two cushions to either side towards the center, the forward dining area is quickly transformed into a V-berth.
To starboard is a wet head that, while modest, was roomy enough to serve its purpose. It’s completely fiberglass lined with plenty of storage and Boston Whaler went with a VacuFlush toilet as standard. On the aft bulkhead is a hatch leading to the backside of the helm console for service and installations.

Below the glass shelf is a sizable storage compartment and the hatch above is a service access point for the helm console.

Observations
Considering how well-built this boat is, her inherent safety factors and the outstanding sea-keeping ability of the 285 Conquest, we think this vessel deserves serious consideration by anyone looking for a cruising or fishing boat in this size range – if only to use as a benchmark. I cannot help but add that Boston Whalers are not only famous for their capacity to resist sinking but for their longevity as well. While some of this is undoubtedly due to the high-caliber maintenance of the owners, the brand’s build attributes must also be given some credit. As long as one doesn't find themselves entering the 2’ syndrome (where the boat the boater needs is 2’ bigger than the one they have) this may very well be the last boat they will ever own.

FISHING BATTLE WAGON
There are a number of US builders that produce outstanding blue water fishing boats that Kiwis are keen to own. Boston Whaler is one such brand. Barry Thompson checks out their latest 285 Conquest.

While they have been saying for years that the Boston Whaler is “the unsinkable legend” I wasn’t about to find out, but what I can say is that the 285 Conquest is one hell of a boat. It’s a boat that you would happily take out in a Force 8 gale and know you were going to survive.


We have all seen the images of a Boston Whaler cut in half and floating or the one where they drove a bulldozer over an upturned hull to demonstrate the toughness of the construction. Founder Richard Fisher was so confident in his fail-safe boat that he tested it publicly—by sawing it in half. LIFE magazine documented the whole thing, and the legend was born. Again we were not about to attempt either, but if everything the company says about their construction and toughness is right, then you’de be hard pressed to find a stronger and better-built boat.

Boston Whaler is built using a unique Unibond construction, which comprises a buoyant closed cell foam that is poured between the hull and deck to form a single unbreakable unit. This is what gives Boston Whaler its remarkable strength, unsinkability and buoyancy. These unique features allow Boston Whaler to offer a ten-year transferable warranty on every boat they build.

For 60 years now, Boston Whaler has engineered some of the most reliable and forward-thinking boats on the water. Every chapter of their history starts with a belief in pushing the limits of what’s possible.

Fishing, Fishing & Fishing
Back in 2013, we reviewed the ‘new’ Conquest 285 and while it hasn’t changed a lot, it has had some refinements, all of which just improved what was already an awesome fishing machine. And that’s what the Boston Whaler Conquest 285 is all about. Fishing! Yes, there all the necessary comforts for family boating and cruising, but a quick walk-through and you soon realise that this is one boat that cuts no corners when it comes to setting up the ultimate fishing platform.

The 5 sqm cockpit is essential one big working space with all the necessary equipment readily at hand. While there is plenty of seating provided, it is folded out of the way when you are fishing. The cockpit sole has two large underfloor wet lockers for your catch as well as an access hatch to the batteries and other ancillary equipment. Across the transom, you’ll find a deep insulated live bait tank, a trio of rod holders and gate access to the boarding platform with telescopic stainless steps.

You have the option of electrical connections under the gunwales for downriggers and electric reels. If you plan to run downriggers, then they can be safely mounted on the hardtop framing.

The broad flat coamings are fitted with all flush mounted hardware, so nothing gets in the way of your fishing. The side bolsters surrounding the cockpit are well position with deep toe space for stand-up fishing. Aft of the passenger seat are three tackle drawers and there is the obligatory rocker launcher off the rear of the hardtop.

The hardtop is supported by an alloy frame and comes with built-in steps for access above. A retractable sunshade that manually extends and retracts from the back of the hardtop offers extra sun protection. The new 285 Conquest now offers optional fold away seating, (across the transom and on either side) so after fishing, the cockpit can be transformed into a great space to relax and knock back a few cold ones. There is also an optional table available.

While the cockpit is dedicated to fishing, the area under the hardtop is all about comfort. To port is a multi-facetted seating design, which gives a variety of options, from aft facing and booth style to a full lounger. The aft seatback slides forward to form an aft-facing seat with a pull-out footrest. Well thought out and very functional.

The helm opposite speaks all about having enough space for big MFD screens. Our test boat had a single Raymarine 12”. But there is room for two or maybe one big 20”. The helm on the test boat also featured a Mercury SmartCraft Vessel View display, stainless steel wheel mounted to a tilt base, and Mercury’s digital throttle and shift system (DTS).

Boston Whaler was apparently thinking about the skipper’s comfort when they designed the helm seat. It’s heavily padded, vented at the back, swivels and slides, has cast flip-up armrests and a flip-up bolster. When I have had to drive a 285 Conquest in rough weather, I appreciated the comfort the seat offered.

Aft of the seat is a sink unit and refrigerator, plus the main battery switches and breaker panel are located underneath. Moulded steps either side of the cockpit lead to the wide side decks, with good handholds and high bow rails.

Weekender Cabin
A lockable sliding door divides the accommodation off from the rest of the boat and I was quite surprised just how much space there was. This is a two cabin one bathroom boat, although to be fair the rear cabin is mostly only a large queen size berth under the cockpit sole. American boats are well known for what they call a mid-cabin design and if you don’t have someone sleeping in there, it’s an excellent space for stowing gear.

Central accommodation is a large island berth forward, which doubles as a U-shape the lounge area with a table during the day and is quickly transformed into a bed at night. There’s also a vanity with sink unit, fridge, microwave and an option for an electric cooktop. A Magma BBQ on the transom would be my pick for this boat. Natural light comes in through portlights in the topsides and an overhead skylight.

To starboard is a completely fibreglass lined head/shower unit that is roomy enough to serve its purpose. On the aft bulkhead is a hatch leading to the back side of the helm console, for service and installations.

Performance and Handling
The Boston Whaler 285 Conquest is available with either a pair of Mercury Verado 225s or 250s and for my money, I would probably go straight to the smaller engine option. With a couple of 225s, top speed is 40.1 knots and with the twin 250s, all you gain is around another 2 knots.

The smaller engine package also means better fuel consumption and range for very similar speeds. At 4000rpm, the pair of 225s record a speed of 22.9 knots, with a fuel burn of 64.3 lph which gives a range of around 230nm. Conversely, the 250s at 4000 rpm run to 24.3 knots, with a fuel burn of 78.3 lph, for a range of 200nm.

At trolling speeds, both engine options will give you somewhere around 300nm range and at wide open throttle @ 6300/6400 rpm, expect 150nm from the 225s and 130nm from the 250s. The range is based on 90% of the total 760-litre fuel capacity.

Our test day was reasonably calm on the inner Auckland Harbour, but I can attest to the 285 Conquests rough water capability. A friend of mine has had one for three years and his regular fishing trips are out wide from Gulf Harbour. The Mokos, Little Barrier, Great Barrier, Horn Rock, all are well within a days boating and some of those trips I have been on have been in exceptionally nasty seas, especially in late afternoon. The ride is exceptional, although in a big following sea the bow does tend to push through rather than riding high. I reckon it makes the ride better and along with the overall weight of the boat attributes to the soft ride. Not an issue and the wipers soon disperse any spray on the screens.

The boat retains a moderate bow rise at speed, but you’ll have no trouble with the visibility and the horizon is always kept in sight. One thing I was impressed with was the turning ability of the 285 Conquest. The hard chines which carry well forward to the bow give the boat exceptional stability and apart from when I dived into a deeper than expected ferry wake, we took no water on the screen.

Talking about the screens, these are extra large. While in previous models the side screens were a combination of Downeast-style side glass windows and clears, the latest 285 Conquest is all safety glass three sides. Another option is to go with a fully-enclosed helm deck which includes an aft bulkhead with a door. This turns the 285 Conquest into a pilothouse version.

Visibility is outstanding, with narrow window mullions and at the top forward centre is an electrically actuated windshield vent that does a remarkable job of scooping air into the helm deck. Windshield wipers with integral washers are standard.

The 8.51m 285 Conquest carries a 2.9m beam and a running weight loaded with fuel, bait, fishing and dive gear and everything else you need for a days fishing, of over 4500 kg. It’s this weight and the solid construction of the hull that helps give the 285 Conquest it’s seriously good ride.

Outstanding
The Boston Whaler 285 Conquest is quite simply an exceptional vessel in its class. That class is a bluewater fishing machine that is overbuilt in every aspect, from the construction to the fitout. If you like doing your fishing well off the coast and want plenty of comfort for overnighting, then the 285 Conquest is ideal. This is a boat that will not appeal to everyone, but if you have a spare $300,000 plus, to spend on what is essentially a very large trailer boat (trailerable with a special permit), then I suggest you should add it to your bucket list.

I know I would!

SPECIFICATIONS & PERFORMANCE
Model: Boston Whaler 285 Conquest
Base Price: $NZ318,500
Price as tested: $NZ349,850
Year Launched: 2017
Type: Hardtop
Construction: GRP/composites
LOA: 8.51m
Beam: 2.90m
Deadrise: 20 degrees
Power: 2 x Mercury Verado 250
Horsepower: 250hp @ 6000 rpm
Power Options: Twin 225hp or 250hp Verado
Fuel Capacity: 760 litres

Boston Whaler 285 Conquest Review
Whaler’s unsinkable legend and reputation for versatility, comfort, and durability live large in the 285 Conquest
By Randy Vance
Updated: May 25, 2012

When I ran the 285 Conquest, my aim was to weigh this new express model’s merits against Whaler’s marketing. Whaler says boaters have high expectations for their investment that are met only when the offering is durable, versatile and comfortable. Moreover, all that must be packaged with the prestige of this storied brand. To test that perspective, I put the 285 through its paces off Florida’s central east coast.

Performance
The boat I ran in February carried twin Mercury Verado 250 power plants, an upgrade from the standard 225s (pictured). Electronic throttle and shift and power steering are some of the beauties of the Verado platform. The short throw of the dual throttles gives satisfying acceleration in return. The sync option is sweet, transferring both engines to the left throttle lever, easing control in choppy seas.

I throttled up to 35 mph and then swung the power helm hard to port, feeding in throttle to sharpen the turn. The keel’s sharp deadrise dug in perfectly, bringing the vessel around 180 degrees inside the narrow channel. The 285 proved just as mannerly turning to starboard.

At 35 mph, I found our most efficient fuel burn, using 1.5 miles per gallon with a range of 273 miles. Top speed measured a little less than 49 mph.

Whaler’s Unibond hull system is heavy by most standards, but that’s always been part of the attraction — it provides the backbone to crush heavy seas without transferring the impact to my bones.

Fishing
The 285’s profile is all hard-core fish. The hardtop can accept an aftermarket cobia tower with controls, and the test boat came with factory-installed outriggers. It also came with a standard, 26-gallon livewell and four standard gunwale rod holders, plus three shotgun holders on the transom.

Dual fish boxes in the sole to port and starboard come fitted with pumps and drains. They also provide tons of cold-drink storage if you’re not of a mind to keep your catch.
The 285’s wide beam and proud chines give it a confident stance while trolling or bottom fishing at anchor — something casual fishermen will appreciate. To port, Whaler added a three-drawer storage center that’s ideal for tackle. A freshwater sink with a cutting surface to starboard can double as a bait station.

The helm can be equipped from the factory with a Raymarine E- or C-series chart plotter, sonar, autopilot and radar. My favorite Whaler trick is the molded, radar-mounting wedge on the hardtop, making a perfectly aligned installation unavoidably easy.

Design and Construction
Whaler’s Unibond Construction system — a process that bonds hull and deck together with closed-cell structural foam — became famous early in the brand’s history after Whaler sawed a Montauk in half and then cruised around with the pieces. Today’s refined system is equally reliable and integral to the prestige.

Beyond that, Whaler has employed durable hardware. The aft seat-back lounge slides on a patented system, morphing from a full-length lounge to an aft-facing mezzanine seat over the cockpit. A rubber-treaded footrest slides out of the storage compartment.

In Whaler’s view, fishability without comfort and fun is a “fail.” That’s why the company designs convertible seating wherever it can fit. Take the transom: A deeply cushioned and sturdy-as-a-rock lounge flips out of the transom. The test boat had an optional lounge under the port gunwale. Enjoy them while trolling lines, and then with a flick of the forearm, stow them, making the cockpit ready for battle.

Belowdecks, a full galley features a microwave, refrigerator and optional single-burner stove. The stainless-steel sink and appliances are housed in a laminated cabinet with a Corian top.

An aft berth complements the forward V-berth. Both sleep two. The forward berth takes only seconds to convert from seating to sleeping mode, thanks to the unique use of the lounge seat backs as part of the sleeping berth.

The test boat came with a gas genset, making air conditioning possible in port or at sea. Piping cool air to the helm deck makes a humid day pleasant.

Even though any day on the water is better than a day in the office, a comfortable day boating is best of all. The Conquest is well put together to provide just what the Whaler marketing gurus told me to expect.

Boston Whaler 285 Conquest review: from the archive
Nick Burnham, April 20, 2021
Boston-Whaler-285-Conquest-review-rear-view-credit-Boston-Whaler
Boston Whaler 285 Conquest. Credit: Boston Whaler
Nick Burnham drives the Boston Whaler 285 Conquest, a serious sportsfisher with family credentials.

I’ve never been on a boat test that starts off with someone saying, “If anyone would rather not do this, we’re more than happy to arrange for you to catch the ferry across.”

Nicolas Bonnin, from Boston Whaler, pauses and surveys the cockpit. I look at the other two journalists to see who will blink first. Silence.

Self-preservation battles ego and I decide to say nothing. “Good,” says Nicolas, “if nothing else then, this will definitely confirm to you all how good the Boston Whaler is in extreme conditions”.

With that the warps are slipped and it’s too late to back out as twin six cylinder Mercury Verado 225hp outboards are nudged into gear.

We’re in the South of France for a press event trying out the latest models from the Brunswick trio – Boston Whaler, Sea Ray and Bayliner.

The event is being held on the beautiful island of Porquerolles.

And the only thing standing between us and it are five miles of open water and the small matter of a Force 8 gale bang on the nose.

Five minutes later we get the first taste of what we’ve let ourselves in for as we clear the harbour and the first wave lifts the Conquest high before its hull burrows down into the following trough.

I can see Porquerolles Island in the distance, a low grey land mass separated from us by an angry, foaming, white capped sea.

Planing is out of the question and the skipper sets the throttles to little more than a fast tick-over as we huddle around the helm.

Boston-Whaler-285-Conquest-review-side-view-credit-Boston-Whaler
Out on the water, and in rather calmer conditions, those twin 225hp Verados provide seamless urge all the way up to 40 knots.

Even so, such is the steepness of the swell passing beneath us that the engines are cavitating as we pivot over the top of them, the propellers lifting so close to the surface. This is NOT fun.

My only hope, that the waves will diminish as we approach the lee of the land, is quickly dashed.

Instead they get higher, steeper and harder.

As we barrel down them the bow buries itself hard into the next wave, the boat completely engulfed as the sea breaks over and around us.

Half an hour into a run that should have taken less than 15 minutes and we’re half a mile off the island motoring towards a headland, surely we’re not going round it?

The skipper has a conflab with his first mate who is convinced we’re way off course and the harbour we want is directly off our starboard beam. Our skipper thinks not.

I question the first mate but it turns out he’s only been to the island once before.

Seeking reassurance, I turn back to the skipper. He’s never been at all…

In the distance I can just make out a port 90° off our starboard bow.

I’m past caring if it’s the right one, I’ll get off wherever is nearest and figure it out from there.

The skipper agrees and we turn to starboard.

Breaking seas on the beam is perhaps the most challenging of sea conditions.

Someone jokes that at least Boston Whalers are unsinkable.

Inwardly, I reflect that it’s not much use if we are upside down.

But my fears are unfounded, the Boston Whaler Boston Whaler 285 Conquest is incredibly stable and soon I feel almost confident of survival.

Conquest-review-berth-credit-Boston-Whaler
There’s a comfortable double berth under the cockpit.

Within a couple of minutes we’re planing at a cautious 20 knots and are soon safely into what turns out to be the right harbour.

Something of a baptism of fire it might have been, but I’m absolutely convinced Boston Whaler’s reputation for serious seakeeping is more than just marketing puff.

The rest of the guests are brought over by ferry.

Two days later and Porquerolles has turned back into an idyllic Mediterranean haven as I reacquaint myself with the Boston Whaler 285 Conquest.

Boston Whaler has still retained its traditional fisher priorities, with an ample live-bait well, rod holders and a safe, open, aft deck, but the point of this boat is to broaden its appeal beyond the fishing fraternity.

285-Conquest-review-helm-credit-Boston-Whaler
Plenty of space for nav gear at the helm.

To that end, the high screened wheelshelter can be replaced by an open helm, the bench seat next to the helm breaks into two facing seats with a slot-in table and further seats pop out from around the cockpit coamings.

Down below a basic but nicely finished cabin with standing headroom, a dinette forward, a practical galley with a microwave and hob, a good-sized toilet compartment and a double berth make this boat a credible family friendly weekender.

Out on the water, and in rather calmer conditions, those twin 225hp Verados provide seamless urge all the way up to 40 knots, with a fast cruising speed in the mid 30s.

dinette-credit-Boston-Whaler
The dinette converts to a double berth while rod holders in the ceiling acknowledge the boat’s sportsfisher credentials.

A comfortable ‘captain’s chair’, a well laid out helm with clear instrumentation, room for nav kit, and a large stainless steel steering wheel ensure the skipper will be in their element, and the boat feels absolutely solid.

Mercury claim that no matter how many Verados are hung on the transom of a boat (Americans like as many as they can fit), a combination of clever mounting and adaptable power steering means that steering effort remains the same.

On the Boston Whaler 285 Conquest, winding the boat into a turn is remarkably effortless bearing in mind the weight and forces involved, and a ball on the wheel allows the boat to be wound swiftly from lock to lock with one hand in a most entertaining manner.

This is still a practical and capable Boston Whaler sportsfisher but now it has more creature comforts to attract the family market.

Whether you actually put this boat’s epic seakeeping to the test in quite the way we did is your choice, but at least you can be safe in the knowledge that it’s there if you need it.

First published in the May 2013 issue of Motor Boats Monthly.

Score
80%
Pros
Build quality, superb ride
Cons
More fisher than cruiser, expensive
Verdict
Rock solid seaboat, worth every penny in Force 8 conditions

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.

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