For cruising, watersports or, of course, serious fishing, the Boston Whaler 280 Outrage combines functionality, flexibility, and comfort. And of course, it’s unsinkable.
Power comes from a standard pair of 250-HP V-8 Mercury Verado engines, with Digital Throttle and Steering (DTS) and hydraulic power steering; optional power ranges up to twin 400s, with Joystick Piloting available at every power level. Recessed electric trim tabs and indicators are standard; available is Active Engine Trim, a Mercury option that automatically adjusts drive trim based on speed.
Twenty-three degree deadrise delivers a stable ride, and 28-inch interior freeboard provides safety and a feeling of security.
The helm panel provides space for two 12-inch displays. Instrumentation is by Mercury, with several Ramarine navigation packages available. Optional deluxe helm seating includes an adjustable captain’s chair and stationary companion seat, both with folding arm rests and bolsters.
A T-top is standard; a premium hardtop package includes tempered glass windshield with a power-actuated vent, bow and cockpit floodlights, rod holders, speakers, electronics box and life jacket storage, and it’s outrigger-ready.
Cabin entry at starboard accesses, via fold-down step, a roomy enclosed head/storage space with portable head with pump-out, courtesy light, and easy-clean liner.
The 280 Outrage’s large open bow features a sundeck lounge with armrests, atop a massive storage bin for which dive tank holders are available. Reverse-C-shaped social seating across the front accepts optional cushions, and a cushioned filler/teak table serving both those seats and the sundeck.
Beneath the bow seats are storage spaces, including lockable rod storage. More storage is in-floor. Split bow rails are optional.
Anchor, davit, handle, cleat and anchor locker rest beneath a gas-assist lid, which is also part of an expansive non-skid casting platform. A low-profile anchor windlass and chain are available. Cleats are recessed, and a pair of deck-mounted rod holders stand ready. Forward coaming bolsters are available within a Comfort Package.
Come fishing time, nine stainless steel rod holders are mounted in transom and aft gunnels. A thirty-gallon livewell in the aft port corner keeps bait lively, and two 54-gallon in-floor fish boxes, with pump-out, await your success.
Helping make that happen is a deluxe leaning post with bait prep area: sink, spray nozzle and two more surface-mounted rod holders, all fronted by a handy grab bar. The prep station features a 30-gallon pressurized livewell with clear lid and blue interior (an optional refrigerated bucket can replace it.). An optional cooler slides into the leaning post; otherwise, three tackle storage drawers fill that space. A bench seat with backrest is available, too.
Within the cockpit, on each side a pair of rods can be stashed in under-gunnel horizontal rod holders, and a two-drawer aft tackle storage center is on the port side. A two-person stern bench folds cleanly – and easily – away to stretch already generous fishing room.
Fishability is prominent, but swimmers and divers will love the built-in transom swim step/platform, with grab handle and covered telescoping swim ladder.
The 280 Outrage is trailerable, its package length with engines up 38’3”, width 9’4”. Boat covers and side curtains are among canvas options.
Boston Whaler 280 Outrage Specifications
L.O.A.: 28’
Beam: 9’4”
Draft: 22”
Weight (Dry, No Engine): 6,200 lbs.
Weight (with Engines, Fuel, Water): 8,961 lbs.
Maximum Weight Capacity: 3,750 lbs.
Persons Capacity: 12
Maximum Horsepower: 800 HP
Fuel Capacity: 186 gals.
Water Capacity: 26 gals.
Waste Capacity: 6.5 gals.
Bridge Clearance with Hardtop: 8’6”
Bridge Clearance with Hardtop and Radar: 9’11.5”
