2025 Grady-White 281 CE Sold Boat in Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 US
Built in 2025
281 CE
2 Engines (2x YAMAHA)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
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 2025 Grady-White 281 CE | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request | Price on request |
| Location | Fort Walton Beach | Naples | Saint Petersburg | Miami | Miami | Miami |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 30' | 21' | 24' | 22' | 28' |
| Engine Make | YAMAHA | - | MERCURY | - | - | - |
| Total Engine Power | 300 hp | - | 200 hp | - | - | - |
| Days on Market | 396 | 107 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Get in touch |
Other Grady-White 281 CE boats for sale in Florida, United States
Other Grady-White boats for sale in Florida, United States
Welcome to Luxury On Water with the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE!
Performance:
Unleash the power of the twin 350 HP engines of this beauty. Feel the adrenaline as you glide through the waves, commanding the seas with unmatched precision.
Craftsmanship:
Crafted with precision and care, the Grady-White 281 CE exemplifies excellence in design and construction. Every detail, from bow to stern, reflects a dedication to quality and luxury.
Luxurious Features:
Step aboard and indulge in the opulent comforts this vessel offers. Pamper yourself in the lavish cabin, entertain under the starlit sky, or bask in the sun on the spacious deck.
Location:
Available at your nearest MarineMax location, this masterpiece awaits your command. Purchase with confidence knowing you'll receive a full fuel tank and a Go Boating Gear kit for worry-free adventures.
Experience Endless Adventures:
With MarineMax, gain access to no-hassle financing, exceptional services, and expert guidance. Join boat shows, customer events, and Getaways!® trips for a lifestyle filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.
Videos from MarineMax Ft. Walton Beach on this 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
2025 Grady-White 281 CE Video Tours
Grady-White 281 CE: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Grady White 281 Coastal Explorer is a thoughtfully designed center console boat that prioritizes fishing functionality without sacrificing family-friendly features. With a length overall of 27 feet, 7 inches, a beam of 9 feet, 4 inches, and a draft of 19 inches, this vessel balances robust construction and clever design to deliver a versatile boating experience. It offers a range of engine options including a single 425 horsepower Yamaha or twin 300 horsepower outboards, supporting both performance and reliability.
Fishing Features and Exterior Design
Fishing is at the core of the 281 Coastal Explorer's design. The cockpit is equipped with a 38-gallon live well on the starboard side, a self-draining freshwater sink, and abundant storage including tackle drawers and under-seat compartments. Rod holders are strategically placed along the cap rails, trailing edge of the hardtop, and integrated with cup holders for convenience. The transom features a spacious 7-foot, 2-inch by 2-foot, 2-inch diamond non-skid casting platform, enhanced by the absence of an engine well due to Yamaha's integrated digital electric steering. The flip-out seat back with bolster support provides comfortable seating without compromising platform height. Center hatches reveal an 18-gallon insulated live well that doubles as a cooler, flanked by removable storage bins granting access to the bilge. The boat includes a 21-inch high bulwark for safety and is pre-rigged for aftermarket power poles and trolling motors.
Forward Deck and T-Top Design
Forward of the cockpit lies a large casting platform measuring approximately 6 feet, 10 inches wide by 8 feet, 10 inches long, accessible via two 9-inch steps that enhance safety and ease of movement. The deck features diamond non-skid surfaces and two insulated, self-draining 70-quart storage compartments. A 296-quart insulated coffin box with a removable divider extends the platform aft. The T-top is mounted to the console rather than the deck, preserving 22 inches of side deck clearance and providing a clean, unobstructed walkway. Its supports are inside the windshield frame and include integrated handrails for helm operation. The T-top is equipped with spreader lights fore and aft, pre-rigged for outriggers, and features underground rod storage for rods up to 10 feet.
Convertible Seating and Family Features
Beyond fishing, the 281 Coastal Explorer converts easily into a family-friendly boat. Cushions transform the forward area into two forward-facing lounges, complemented by electrically actuated side seatbacks that create additional lounges with adjustable positions. The seatbacks can be stopped at any angle, enhancing comfort and usability. A full-length grab rail and conveniently placed beverage holders add to the comfort. An easy-up bow shade supported by carbon fiber stanchions provides sun protection for up to five passengers. The forward seating also includes a side-facing lounger option, an electrically extendable shade from the hardtop’s trailing edge, and options for a ski tow arch or pylon depending on engine configuration. The sport deck at the stern is electrically actuated and standard, featuring a ladder and side doors for easy water access.
Head Compartment and Safety Features
The head compartment is designed with thoughtful engineering, featuring side access with an inward-opening door equipped with a handle and magnetic catch to hold it open. Inside, a grab handle and conveniently located light switch provide ease of use. The compartment offers 5 feet, 4 inches of overhead clearance and 4 feet of sitting headroom, with cherry storage racks and a solar-powered vent overhead. The bow rail extends fully back for secure handholds when entering or exiting the head. Safety is emphasized throughout the boat, with 21-inch high bulwarks, multiple grab rails along the side decks and under the T-top, foam flotation beyond regulatory requirements, and comprehensive overboard drainage for all compartments and drink holders.
Helm and Operational Features
The helm console is designed for operational efficiency and comfort. It accommodates dual 16-inch flat panel displays supplied by dealers, with switches positioned low on the console to keep the line of sight clear. A centrally located Yamaha engine display sits just ahead of digital engine controls. The steering wheel is a three-spoke gray stainless steel design with non-skid surfaces and a steering knob, mounted on a tilt base. The compass is mounted centrally on the console, although slightly offset from the steering wheel. Storage includes a large forward compartment and an overhead electronics box housing a dealer-installed VHF radio. The wraparound acrylic windshield extends outside the T-top supports with minimal distortion and includes a standard windshield wiper. Additional features include a Fusion stereo system with connectivity, zippered overhead storage, LED lighting capable of cycling through red, white, and blue, and an elite leaning post with flip armrests, flip bolsters, and fore-aft adjustment. Fire extinguisher storage is integrated into the portside bulwark.
Ground Tackle and Deck Hardware
The ground tackle is conveniently located on an elevated platform at the bow, eliminating the need to bend or stoop. The anchor locker hatch is supported by a gas assist strut and houses a standard windlass with controls both at the bow and helm. The bow features a pop-up navigation light and three 8-inch pull-up cleats on each side, facilitating secure mooring.
Performance and Handling
During testing with twin 300 horsepower Yamaha outboards equipped with 15 1/4 by 19 props, the 281 Coastal Explorer achieved a top speed of 55 miles per hour at 6,000 RPM. The optimal cruising speed was found at 3,400 RPM, delivering 32.1 miles per hour with a fuel burn of 14.7 gallons per hour, equating to 2.2 miles per gallon and a range of 316 statute miles while maintaining a 10% fuel reserve from the 160-gallon capacity. Acceleration to plane occurred in approximately three seconds, reaching 20 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds, 30 miles per hour in 7.5 seconds, and surpassing 40 miles per hour in 9.6 seconds. The boat exhibits strong, sturdy construction with excellent handling characteristics, including a smooth, dry ride through waves and wakes, gentle leaning into turns without excessive centrifugal force, and minimal speed loss during maneuvers. Trim adjustments are straightforward, with the boat favoring a trim gauge setting that leaves about three notches visible for optimal cruising attitude. Trim tabs are primarily used for correcting uneven weight distribution rather than performance enhancement.
Conclusion
The Grady White 281 Coastal Explorer stands out for its meticulous attention to detail, robust build quality, and thoughtful integration of fishing and family features. Its clever use of space, extensive storage solutions, and comfortable seating arrangements make it a versatile vessel suitable for serious anglers and recreational boaters alike. Performance testing confirms its capability to deliver a smooth, stable, and efficient ride, while safety features and operational conveniences reinforce its reputation as a well-engineered boat designed to last a lifetime.
Overview from around the web 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Customers are praising the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE for its exceptional balance of performance, comfort, and versatility
Many appreciate the spacious layout, which allows for ample seating and storage, making it ideal for day trips with friends and family. The boat’s innovative design features, such as the high-quality materials and attention to detail in craftsmanship, have also garnered positive feedback. Users commend the smooth ride and stability, even in rough waters, thanks to the advanced hull design. The powerful engine options provide impressive acceleration and speed, making it a thrill for avid boaters. Additionally, the integrated technology and user-friendly control systems enhance the overall boating experience, allowing for an effortless navigation process. Clients also highlight the amenities offered, such as the well-designed galley and ample cabin space, which make overnight trips comfortable. The spacious cockpit with fishing capabilities has received high marks from anglers, who enjoy the thoughtful features that cater to fishing needs. Overall, the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is resonating well with customers who value quality, performance, and a family-friendly design.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons of the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Pros
Versatile Design: The 281 CE boasts a multi-functional layout that caters to both fishing enthusiasts and family outings, offering ample space for various activities.
Superior Build Quality: Known for its durable construction, Grady-White ensures that the 281 CE features high-quality materials and craftsmanship designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments.
Performance: Powered by reliable engines, this model delivers impressive performance on the water, with excellent speed and handling, making it suitable for both leisurely cruises and sport fishing.
Comfortable Amenities: The boat includes numerous comfort features, such as spacious seating, a well-equipped helm, and an inviting cabin, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all onboard.
Advanced Technology: The 281 CE is equipped with cutting-edge navigation and fish-finding technology, enhancing the fishing experience and improving safety on the water.
Exceptional Stability: With a deep V-hull design, this model provides superior stability and a smooth ride even in choppy waters, contributing to overall safety and comfort.
Cons
Price Point: As a premium brand, the Grady-White 281 CE may come with a higher price tag compared to other boats in its class, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Maintenance Costs: The advanced technology and high-quality materials can lead to increased maintenance and repair costs, which may require a financial commitment from owners.
Size Limitations: While the 281 CE offers ample space, those looking for an even larger vessel may find it falls short of their needs, especially for more extensive family gatherings or longer trips.
Fuel Efficiency: Like many powerboats, fuel consumption can be a concern, particularly during extended outings. Owners should consider fuel costs when planning their adventures.
Limited Freshwater Options: While primarily designed for saltwater use, freshwater applications may not always be ideal, limiting use in certain environments and conditions.
Made For
The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is designed for avid boaters who seek a harmonious blend of luxury, performance, and versatility on the water. This model caters to families and recreational enthusiasts who enjoy both fishing and leisure activities. With its spacious layout and comfortable seating, the 281 CE is ideal for day trips, entertaining friends, and creating lasting memories. It appeals to those who appreciate high-quality craftsmanship and innovative features, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride in various waters. Safety features and reliable performance make this boat a perfect choice for both seasoned mariners and newcomers alike. Whether you're exploring coastal waters, embarking on a fishing expedition, or simply enjoying a sunset cruise, the Grady-White 281 CE promises an exceptional experience on the open sea.
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Boat Location
Contact MarineMax Ft. Walton Beach about 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Fort Walton Beach, FL, 32548
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