2025 Grady-White 281 CE Sold Boat in Gulf Shores, AL 36542 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 | Gulf Shores | Gulf Shores | Gulf Shores | Gulf Shores | Gulf Shores | Gulf Shores |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 17' | 21' | 19' | 13' | 25' |
| Engine Make | YAMAHA | MERCURY | MERCURY | MERCURY | MERCURY | MERCURY |
| Total Engine Power | 300 hp | 115 hp | 300 hp | 150 hp | 40 hp | 300 hp |
| Days on Market | 397 | 8 | 8 | 18 | 28 | 30 |
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Other Grady-White 281 CE boats for sale in Alabama, United States
Other Grady-White boats for sale in Alabama, United States
MarineMax Gulf Shores is proud to present the new 2025 Grady-White 281 CE (Stock #199243), a versatile center console that seamlessly blends the capabilities of a serious inshore fishing boat with the comfort and style of a family cruiser. This vessel is designed to handle a variety of on-water activities, from fishing in shallow waters to cruising with friends and family.
Built on Grady-White's renowned SeaV²® hull, the 281 Coastal Explorer delivers a smooth, dry, and stable ride, inspiring confidence for all your coastal adventures.
- Powerful Twin Yamaha Outboards: This 281 CE is propelled by a robust pair of Twin White Yamaha F300 FM outboard engines, delivering a combined 600 horsepower. These engines provide a top speed of over 57 mph and a range of efficiency features.
- Luxurious & Refined Interior: This boat is built for all-day enjoyment, with a spacious and convertible bow seating area, a large insulated fish box, and an enclosed head compartment in the console for convenience.
- Advanced Helm: The intuitive helm comes equipped with Helm Master® EX with Integrated Digital Electric Steering, providing precise control and a clean bilge area.
- Striking Gel Coat: This particular model features a standout Ocean Mist Blue gel coat, setting it apart on the water.
- Comfort and Convenience: The boat is equipped with a Sure Shade Top, an Ivory Bow Shade, and Underwater Lights for extended enjoyment from day to night.
- Fishing-Ready Features: This boat is a true angler's dream, featuring two 70-quart forward fish boxes, a 296-quart cooler under the console seat, and a 38-gallon recirculating livewell.
This 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is an exceptional vessel for creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. Its combination of performance, practical design, and renowned build quality makes it a perfect choice for those who seek a perfect day out on the water.
At MarineMax, we are dedicated to making boating easy and enjoyable. When you purchase a boat from us, you'll benefit from our comprehensive support, including:
- A full fuel tank upon purchase.
- A Go Boating Gear kit filled with essentials for safety on the water
- Hassle-free financing and insurance options.
- Exceptional service with convenient online scheduling.
- Expert guidance through various boating classes and seminars.
- Access to our exclusive Getaways!® trips and customer events, connecting you with a vibrant community of fellow boaters.
Trades considered.
Videos from MarineMax Gulf Shores 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
The Grady-White 281 CE 2025 has garnered enthusiastic reviews from customers who appreciate its blend of performance, comfort, and innovative features
Boaters have praised its spacious layout, ideal for both day cruising and weekend getaways. The well-designed cockpit seating allows for ample socializing while underway, while the enclosed helm provides protection from the elements without sacrificing visibility. Many users highlight the boat's smooth ride and stability, even in choppy waters, thanks to the brand’s signature SeaV2 hull design. The powerful engine options receive accolades for their efficiency and reliability, making it a breeze to navigate both nearshore and offshore conditions. In terms of amenities, customers love the thoughtfulness of the onboard features, including ample storage, a well-equipped galley, and comfortable sleeping quarters. The attention to detail in craftsmanship and high-quality materials further solidify its reputation as a premium choice in the boating community. Overall, the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is celebrated for its versatility, making it an excellent option for families and fishing enthusiasts alike. Whether cruising with friends or pursuing the catch of the day, this boat aims to deliver satisfaction on every journey.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
2025 Grady-White 281 CE: Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile Design: The 281 CE is designed for both serious fishing and family cruising, offering a perfect blend of functionality and comfort.
Spacious Deck: With a generously sized cockpit and ample seating, the boat provides plenty of room for both anglers and families, ensuring a comfortable experience on the water.
Powerful Performance: Equipped with twin-engine options, the Grady-White 281 CE delivers impressive performance and reliability, allowing for swift travel and easy maneuverability.
Quality Construction: Grady-White boats are known for their durability and exceptional build quality, utilizing high-grade materials that ensure longevity and resilience against harsh marine conditions.
Safety Features: The 281 CE comes with a range of safety features including high freeboard, secure handrails, and reliable marine electronics, enhancing peace of mind for all onboard.
Innovative Fishing Features: Designed with the avid angler in mind, this boat includes multiple rod holders, livewell options, and a spacious fish box, making it an excellent choice for fishing enthusiasts.
Advanced Technology: The boat is equipped with modern navigation and connectivity systems, providing essential tools for a smoother, more enjoyable boating experience.
Cons
Price Point: As a premium boat, the Grady-White 281 CE comes with a higher price tag, which may be a barrier for some buyers.
Maintenance Costs: With advanced technology and high-performance engines, upkeep and servicing may be more costly compared to entry-level boats.
Fuel Consumption: While performance is a strong suit, the twin-engine setup may lead to higher fuel consumption, especially when used at full throttle.
Weight: The boat's robust construction adds weight, which can affect fuel efficiency and may limit some clients’ preferences regarding trailering.
Limited Cabin Space: While it offers comfort and a small cabin area for storage or resting, it may not be ideal for extended overnight trips compared to larger models. The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE stands as an excellent option for those who value quality, performance, and versatility on the water, albeit with considerations regarding cost and maintenance.
Made For
The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is designed for passionate boaters who seek the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility on the water. Ideal for families and fishing enthusiasts alike, this model caters to those looking for a spacious and functional vessel that can accommodate both leisure cruising and serious fishing excursions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler searching for the perfect catch or just want to enjoy a day of relaxation with loved ones, the 281 CE delivers with its thoughtful design and high-quality craftsmanship. Equipped with plenty of storage, robust livewells, and a user-friendly layout, this boat ensures that every outing is enjoyable and hassle-free. The spacious cockpit area is perfect for entertaining or prepping for the next fishing adventure, while its comfortable seating and sheltered helm provide a welcoming environment to relax on the water. With its impressive performance and stability, the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is the ideal choice for those who demand excellence, whether they’re navigating coastal waters or cruising the open sea.
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Contact MarineMax Gulf Shores about 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Gulf Shores, AL, 36542
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