2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
Price on request
Boat in Sarasota, FL 34238 US
281 Coastal Explorer
2 Engines (2x Yamaha)
27.6 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
- 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 rails - low profile 316 grade stainless steel
- 100% hand laid SeaV² hull & deck
- Anchor windlass w/rode, line, and 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)
- Rubrail - high density PVC w/stainless steel insert
- Seating - aft bench seat w/port & starboard swing-open and walk-through backrests & removable center backrest
- 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
- Accessory outlet - 5V duplex USB port
- Accessory outlet - 12V (1)
- 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, 7.5-gallon (28 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 - laminated glass 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 - Command Elite helm chairs (2)
- Storage - lockable storage drawers (3)
- Storage - lockable w/tackle trays (6)
- Storage - port net storage area
- Washdown - pressurized raw water w/hose
- Bow table package
- Casting platform extension insert w/cushion
- CE certification package (European Conformity)
- Hull color - Celestial Blue, Coastal Fog, Ocean Mist, or Sage Gray gelcoat
- Lighting - underwater blue LED (2)
- Outrigger kit - 18-ft. (5.5 m) crank hardtop mounted stainless steel outriggers w/carbon fiber poles
- Ski arch
- Steering - Helm Master® EX Full Maneuverability w/autopilot & Yamaha Siren Marine Connected Boat® Monitoring System
- SureShade® electrically retractable cockpit shade w/Sunbrella® canvas (oyster)
- T-top color - underside of fiberglass T-top (requires matching gelcoat hull color option)
- Trolling motor pre-rig - swivel mounting bracket w/quick release, head stabilizer, batteries (3), and 20-amp battery charger (trolling motor not included)
- Windshield wiper
- Easy up bow shade (ivory mesh)
- T-top wing curtains (ivory)
Videos from Ingman Marine- Sarasota on this 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer Video Tours
Overview from around the web 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
Customers are praising the 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer for its exceptional versatility and premium craftsmanship
Many highlight its smooth and stable ride, even in choppy waters, making it ideal for both fishing and family outings. Users appreciate the spacious and well-thought-out deck layout, which provides ample storage and comfortable seating. The boat’s advanced features, including state-of-the-art electronics and high-quality fishing amenities, receive consistent positive feedback. Overall, owners commend the 281 Coastal Explorer for blending performance, durability, and comfort, making it a top choice for serious anglers and recreational boaters alike.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, making it a standout choice for serious anglers and family cruisers alike. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Spacious and Comfortable Layout: The 281 Coastal Explorer features a roomy cockpit and well-designed seating, providing comfort for extended trips and ample space for fishing gear or passengers.
Superior Build Quality: Known for Grady-White’s renowned craftsmanship, this model offers a robust hull and premium materials that ensure durability and long-lasting performance.
Advanced Fishing Features: Equipped with multiple rod holders, large fish boxes, and a livewell, it’s tailored to meet the needs of anglers looking for a serious fishing platform.
Smooth and Stable Ride: The deep-V hull design delivers excellent handling and stability in various sea conditions, offering a smooth ride even in choppy waters.
Modern Amenities: Features such as a fully equipped helm, integrated electronics, and a comfortable cabin with sleeping accommodations enhance the overall boating experience.
Versatility: Ideal for both offshore fishing and family cruising, making it a flexible choice for a variety of boating activities.
Cons
Price Point: As a premium boat with high-end features, the 281 Coastal Explorer may come with a higher price tag compared to some competitors, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Size and Trailerability: At nearly 28 feet, it may require a larger trailer and towing vehicle, which could limit mobility for some owners.
Fuel Consumption: With powerful engine options designed for performance, fuel efficiency may be lower than smaller or less powerful boats, leading to higher operating costs.
Learning Curve: The advanced electronics and features might require some time to learn and fully utilize for novice boaters.
Made For
The 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer is designed for avid anglers and boating enthusiasts who seek a versatile, high-performance center console boat. Ideal for those who want a reliable vessel capable of handling offshore fishing adventures as well as comfortable family outings, this boat offers a perfect blend of rugged durability, advanced fishing features, and spacious amenities. Whether you're targeting big game fish or enjoying a day on the water with friends and family, the 281 Coastal Explorer meets the needs of serious fishermen and recreational boaters alike.
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Contact Ingman Marine- Sarasota about 2026 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer
8311 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, 34238
Contact Ingman Marine- Sarasota
8311 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, 34238



















