2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal ExplorerSold
$299,900
Boat in Beaufort, NC 28516 US
281 Coastal Explorer
2 Engines (2x Yamaha)
28 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
2023 GRADY WHITE 281 COASTAL EXPLORER
THIS BOAT IS LOADED AND BEEN MAINTAINED WITH AN OPEN CHECK BOOK.
OPTIONS INCLUDE:
- TWIN YAMAHA 300'S W/ HELM MASTER
- YAMAHA AUTOPILPOT
- ELITE LEAN BAR
- AFT CENTER BRACKET
- BOW TABLE
- GEL COAT CELESTIAL BLUE
- UNDERSIDE HARD TOP MATCHING GEL COAT
- GEMLUX 18ft CARBON-FIBER OUTRIGGERS
ELECTRONICS:
- DUAL GARMIN 8616 SERIES TOUCH SCREENS
- GARMAIN DOME RADAR GMR 24xHD
- MINN KOTA ULTERRA 112 TROLLING MOTOR W/iPILOT 36 VOLTS
- (2) DIGITAL ANTENNAS 8ft 1-vhf 1-am/fm
- STANDARD HORIZON GX1400G VHF
- GT51M-TM TRANSDUCER
- BLACK OAK PRO SERIES 20inch LED LIGHT BAR
-
The ultimate inshore/offshore boat, built on Grady-White's legendary SeaV²® hull, the all-new 281 Coastal Explorer is a real game-changer! Packed with ingenuity, starting with a new standard portside electric fold down platform with stowable ladder and the newly designed aft bench seat with three different configurations, this top-of-the-line Grady-White boat delivers triple the thrills. From fishing the shallows, and the deepest offshore canyons, to riding in luxury and style to and from the sandbar, this incredibly versatile boat will be the delight of the entire family!
- 2 automatic bilge pumps (total 2600 GPH) (9842 LPH)
- Basic flotation
- Bow grab rail - low profile 316 grade stainless steel
- Composite stringer system & transom - water impervious
- Fire extinguisher holder
- Nonskid fiberglass liner
- Self-bailing cockpit w/cockpit drains (2)
- Stainless steel through-hull fittings
- Stern grab rail - low profile 316 grade stainless steel
- 100% hand laid SeaV² hull & deck
- Anchor windlass w/remote switches at helm & windlass
- Batteries (2) w/battery select switch (1) & battery charger (1)
- Casting platform insert w/cushion
- Cleats - flush mount (pull up)
- Cockpit lights - blue LED
- Deck hardware - 316 grade stainless steel through-bolted
- Drink holders - stainless steel (8)
- Engine flush system w/hose attachment aft (one per engine)
- Factory engine pre-rigging
- Fish box - 70-qt (66.2 l) forward port & starboard insulated fish box w/ob drain (2)
- Forward bolsters
- Hydraulic trim tabs w/indicator & auto retract
- International lighting
- Livewell - 18-gallon (68 l) aft insulated raw water livewell w/light & ob drain (500 GPH pump) (1893 LPH)
- Rod holders - aft (4), amidships (4)
- Rod storage racks - horizontal (2)
- Rubrail - high density PVC w/stainless steel insert
- Seating - aft bench seat w/port & starboard swing-open walk-through backrests
- Seating - port & starboard bow cushioned seating w/electromechanically adjustable backrests
- Sport Deck – electromechanically folding platform w/boarding ladder
- Stereo system w/waterproof touch screen display, AM/FM tuner, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth® connectivity; speakers w/LED lights - bow (2), cockpit (2), T-top (2)
- Stern eyes - 316 grade stainless steel
- Storage - port & starboard under seat drop in boxes
- Storage - port boarding ladder storage
- Storage - forward anchor locker w/rode storage
- Storage - lockable storage drawers (2)
- Water tank - 18-gallon (68.1 l) fresh water
- Knife & pliers holders
- Livewell - 38-gal. (144 l) insulated raw water livewell w/light, full column distribution inlet & ob drain (1100 GPH pump) (4164 LPH)
- Painted rod holders (4)
- Rigging station - freshwater shower (recessed), cutting board & bait locker
- Seating - backrest w/split flip-up bolster
- Storage - lockable storage drawer
- Storage - lockable w/tackle trays (6)
- Storage - port net storage area
- Washdown - pressurized raw water w/hose
- Accessory outlet - 12V (1)
- Accessory outlet - 5V duplex USB port
- Compass
- Console grab rail
- Cooler - 296-qt (280.1 l) cooler under forward console seat w/removable divider
- Drink holders - stainless steel (2)
- Footrest - molded console footrest
- Flush mount electronics area
- Head - lockable console w/lighting, bulk storage, composite cherry & holly sole & marine head w/electric flush, 10-gallon (38 l) holding tank w/macerator, overboard discharge & deck pump out
- Seating - molded forward console lounge seat w/cushion & backrest
- Steering - Helm Master EX® w/Integrated Digital Electric Steering (does not include joystick)
- Steering wheel - 316 grade stainless steel w/knob
- T-top (fiberglass) w/painted aluminum frame, storage net, LED spreader lights, rod holders (4), tri-colored (red, blue, white) LED recessed lights (3), radar flat & outrigger plates
- Window - tinted frameless glass
- Windshield - scratch resistant acrylic integrated w/T-top
- Windshield wiper w/washer
- Knife & pliers holders
- Livewell - 38-gal. (144 l) insulated raw water livewell w/light, full column distribution inlet & ob drain (1100 GPH pump) (4164 LPH)
- Painted rod holders (4)
- Rigging station - freshwater shower (recessed), cutting board & bait locker
- Seating - backrest w/split flip-up bolster
- Storage - lockable storage drawer
- Storage - lockable w/tackle trays (6)
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.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 9/13/25 | Price decreased | $299,900(-5.4%) |
| 7/31/25 | Initial price | $316,900 |
Overview from around the web 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
Customers are praising the 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer for its exceptional stability and smooth ride, even in choppy waters
Many highlight the boat’s spacious and well-thought-out layout, which provides ample room for fishing, cruising, and entertaining. The high-quality craftsmanship and durable materials used throughout the vessel receive consistent commendation. Users also appreciate the advanced features and modern electronics that enhance both safety and convenience on the water. Overall, owners describe the 281 Coastal Explorer as a versatile and reliable boat that excels in offshore fishing and family outings alike.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer offers a range of advantages along with a few considerations to keep in mind:
Pros
Versatile Design: The 281 Coastal Explorer is designed for both serious fishing and comfortable family cruising, making it a highly adaptable boat.
Spacious Layout: With ample cockpit space and seating, it comfortably accommodates multiple passengers and gear.
Quality Construction: Known for its durable build and premium materials, ensuring longevity and reliability in various marine conditions.
Advanced Features: Equipped with modern electronics and fish-finding technology, enhancing navigation and fishing efficiency.
Smooth Ride: The hull design delivers excellent stability and a smooth ride even in choppy waters.
Storage Capacity: Offers generous storage compartments for tackle, gear, and personal items, keeping the deck clutter-free.
Cons
Price Point: As a premium boat, it may be more expensive compared to other models in its class.
Fuel Consumption: With powerful engines designed for performance, fuel efficiency may be lower compared to smaller or less performance-oriented boats.
Size Limitations: While spacious, the 28-foot length might limit docking options in certain marinas or increase trailering complexity.
Learning Curve: The advanced electronics and systems could require some time for new owners to fully master.
Made For
The 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer is designed for avid anglers and boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile and reliable offshore fishing boat. Ideal for those who want a combination of rugged performance, advanced fishing features, and comfortable accommodations, this boat is perfect for day trips or extended coastal adventures. Whether you’re targeting big game fish or enjoying family outings on the water, the 281 Coastal Explorer offers the durability, spacious layout, and innovative technology to meet the needs of serious fishermen and recreational boaters alike.
Finance your dream boat!
Finance your dream boat!
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Meet the Broker

Address
Boat Location
Contact Radio Island Marina about 2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
156 Radio Island Road, Beaufort, NC, 28516
Contact Radio Island Marina
156 Radio Island Road, Beaufort, NC, 28516






















