2025 Grady-White 281 CE Sold Boat in Seabrook, TX 77586 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 | $989,000 |
| Location | Seabrook | Pottsboro |
| Nominal Length | 28' | 42' |
| Draft | 1' | - |
| Engine Make | YAMAHA | MERCURY |
| Total Engine Power | 300 hp | 600 hp |
| Days on Market | 395 | 112 |
| Get in touch |
Other Grady-White boats for sale in Texas, United States
MarineMax Houston is proud to present the new 2025 Grady-White 281 CE (Stock #203441), a versatile and highly capable Coastal Explorer designed for both serious inshore and nearshore fishing, as well as comfortable family cruising and watersports. This 28-foot center console boat combines Grady-White's legendary SeaV2® hull performance with an innovative deck layout, making it an ideal choice for boaters in the Houston area who desire a do-it-all vessel for exploring bays, coastal waters, and even venturing offshore on favorable days.
The 281 CE (Coastal Explorer) is engineered to provide a smooth, dry ride even in choppy conditions, while its shallow draft allows access to skinny waters. Its thoughtful design maximizes usable space, offering ample seating, abundant storage, and all the fishing amenities you'd expect from a Grady-White.
- Powerful Twin White Yamaha 300 HP FourStroke Outboards with Helm Master: This 281 CE is propelled by a robust pair of Twin White Yamaha F300 (300 HP) FourStroke outboard engines, delivering a combined 600 horsepower. These highly regarded Yamaha outboards provide strong acceleration, impressive top speeds, and excellent fuel efficiency. Equipped with Yamaha's Helm Master® EX system, this boat offers unparalleled control, including joystick maneuverability for effortless docking, Set Point® features for precise boat positioning (e.g., FishPoint® for holding position over a fishing spot), and integrated digital steering, making your time on the water more enjoyable and less stressful.
- Legendary SeaV2® Hull Performance: Experience the difference of Grady-White's exclusive SeaV2® hull, known for its continuously variable deadrise that provides a smooth, soft, and dry ride in a wide range of sea conditions, enhancing comfort and safety on long runs.
- Versatile Deck Layout: The 281 CE features an intelligent deck design with a spacious bow area that can be configured for fishing with a casting platform or for lounging with comfortable cushions. The stern offers a large cockpit for fishing or socializing, with a foldaway aft bench seat.
- Fishing Ready Amenities: Anglers will appreciate the integrated tackle storage, numerous rod holders, a large insulated fish box, and a spacious livewell, making it well-equipped for a productive day on the water.
- Comfortable Seating & Social Zones: Beyond fishing, the boat offers comfortable seating options, including a leaning post at the helm, and often features a forward console seat with a cooler underneath, creating inviting spaces for passengers.
- Integrated Head Compartment: A private, enclosed head compartment within the console provides convenience and comfort for extended outings.
- Stylish Design & Superior Craftsmanship: The 281 CE boasts a sleek, modern aesthetic with high-quality finishes and attention to detail throughout, reflecting Grady-White's commitment to luxury and durability.
- Easy Access & Functionality: Wide gunwales, strategically placed grab rails, and thoughtful access points ensure safety and ease of movement around the boat.
This 2025 Grady-White 281 CE (Stock #203441) offers a unique opportunity to own a brand-new, highly capable and versatile center console from MarineMax Houston, ready to tackle any adventure from shallow bay fishing to offshore cruising with advanced control.
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 Houston 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 2025 Grady-White 281 CE has received commendations from customers for its impressive blend of performance, comfort, and style
Here’s a summary of the feedback: 1. Exceptional Handling: Owners appreciate the boat's outstanding stability and responsiveness on the water, making it ideal for both leisure cruising and more adventurous outings. 2. Spacious Layout: The generous cockpit and well-designed seating arrangements receive high marks. Customers love the ample room for family and friends, along with dedicated areas for fishing, lounging, and dining. 3. Comfort Features: Many users highlight the luxurious amenities, such as the comfortable helm seating and the well-appointed cabin, providing a perfect retreat after a day on the water. The attention to detail in the interior design is particularly praised. 4. Versatile Fishing Capabilities: Fishing enthusiasts rave about the boat's features geared towards angling, including plenty of rod holders, a livewell, and a large fishbox. The boat’s performance in various fishing conditions has impressed many. 5. Quality Construction: Grady-White's reputation for building durable and reliable boats shines through, with customers noting the high-quality materials and craftsmanship that stand the test of time. 6. Upgraded Technology: The integrated technology, including advanced navigation systems and excellent sound systems, has been well-received, enhancing the overall boating experience. Overall, the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is celebrated for delivering a perfect combination of adventure, comfort, and reliability, making it a popular choice among boaters looking to elevate their on-water experiences.
Made For
The 2025 Grady-White 281 CE is designed for those who seek the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and versatility on the water. This exceptional center console is ideal for avid anglers, leisurely cruisers, and families alike. With spacious seating and ample storage, it caters to those who enjoy extended outings, whether you're casting lines in pursuit of the next big catch or cruising with friends and family for a day of relaxation. The 281 CE's robust construction and reliable performance make it suitable for seasoned boaters and newcomers alike, ensuring confidence in varying conditions. For fishing enthusiasts, its well-thought-out features enhance the experience, offering advanced fishability coupled with smart ergonomics. Families will appreciate the safety and comfort, making every trip enjoyable, while those who appreciate luxury will be delighted by the premium materials and finishes that Grady-White is known for. In summary, the 2025 Grady-White 281 CE appeals to a diverse audience of boat lovers—whether you're an angler, a social cruiser, or a family looking to create lasting memories on the water, this boat delivers in every aspect, making it a perfect choice for your maritime adventures.
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Contact MarineMax Houston about 2025 Grady-White 281 CE
Seabrook, TX, 77586
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