2025 Grady-White 281 CE Sold Boat in Panama City, FL 32408 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 | Panama City | 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 | 372 | 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
The Grady-White 281 CE Coastal Explorer is the ultimate fusion of inshore fishing capability and offshore comfort, built on Grady-White's legendary SeaV²® hull for a smooth, dry, and stable ride. This center console is engineered to handle shallow water fishing one moment and thrilling offshore adventures the next.
- Engine: Powered by twin, reliable White Yamaha F300 four-stroke outboards with Full Maneuverability (FM).
- Steering: Equipped with Helm Master® EX with Integrated Digital Electric Steering for unmatched control, effortless docking, and smooth handling.
- Top Speed: Capable of achieving impressive top speeds on the water.
- Hull Design: SeaV²® hull with a continuously variable deadrise that provides a fantastic feel and performance in all conditions.
- Aft Deck: The newly designed aft bench seat is highly versatile, converting from comfortable forward-facing seating to a large, clear casting platform with the backrests removed.
- Innovative Sport Deck: Features a standard, portside, electrically-actuated folding platform and a stowable ladder, making reboarding from swimming or snorkeling exceptionally easy.
- Bow Lounge: The spacious bow seating area includes electro-mechanically adjustable backrests, quickly transforming the space from a forward lounge to a sun pad or a dedicated casting deck.
- T-Top: Includes a fiberglass T-Top with LED lights, a storage net, and rod holders.
- Deluxe Leaning Bar: A central rigging station with a sink, tackle storage drawers, a bait locker, and rod holders.
- Livewells: Features a massive insulated raw water livewell within the lean bar, plus an additional aft insulated livewell.
- Storage: Two insulated fish boxes are located in the bow, both draining overboard.
- Cooler: A massive cooler is located under the forward console lounge seat.
- Head Compartment: A lockable console provides an enclosed head area with a marine head, electric flush, and bulk storage.
- Stereo System: Standard stereo system with a waterproof touchscreen display, AM/FM tuner, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth® connectivity.
- Water Capacity: Freshwater tank for the recessed shower and head.
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.
Discover the ultimate inshore/offshore experience with the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE at MarineMax Panama City Beach.
Videos from MarineMax Panama City 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 build quality and seaworthiness
Many highlight the spacious and comfortable cockpit layout, making it ideal for both fishing and family outings. The boat’s smooth ride and reliable performance in various sea conditions receive frequent commendations. Additionally, users appreciate the thoughtful storage solutions and advanced fishing features, which enhance overall convenience and functionality. Overall, the 281 CE is celebrated for combining rugged durability with versatile, user-friendly design.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE offers a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, making it a popular choice for anglers and family boaters alike. Here are some key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious and Versatile Layout: The 281 CE features a roomy cockpit and comfortable seating arrangements, ideal for fishing, cruising, and entertaining.
Superior Build Quality: Known for Grady-White’s durable construction and attention to detail, this model offers reliability and longevity.
Advanced Fishing Features: Equipped with rod holders, tackle storage, and a fish box, it caters well to serious anglers.
Smooth Ride: The deep-V hull design provides excellent handling and a comfortable ride even in choppy waters.
Modern Electronics and Amenities: Comes with updated navigation systems, fish finders, and convenience features like ample storage and a well-equipped cabin.
Cons
Price Point: The premium quality and features come with a higher price tag compared to some competitors in the same class.
Weight and Size: At nearly 28 feet, it may be less convenient for trailering and require a larger towing vehicle.
Fuel Consumption: The powerful engine options can lead to higher fuel usage, which may impact operating costs over time.
Limited Cabin Space: While comfortable for day trips, the cabin might feel compact for longer overnight stays or larger groups.
Made For
The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is designed for anglers and boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile, high-performance center-console boat that combines offshore fishing capabilities with comfortable family-friendly features. Ideal for those who want a reliable, seaworthy vessel capable of handling a variety of water conditions while providing ample space for fishing, cruising, and entertaining. Whether you’re an experienced angler or enjoy weekend adventures on the water, the 281 CE offers a perfect blend of functionality, comfort, and advanced technology to enhance your boating experience.
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Boat Location
Contact MarineMax Panama City Beach about 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Panama City, FL, 32408
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