2017 Eastern Boats 180 Center Console

This is the boat that started it all. Thirty-three years ago, Eastern Boats offered only one model, this lovely 183 X 68 design by Royal Lowell, the Dean of Downeast boat designers. Today, were still building her, because boaters still want to take advantage of her seaworthiness, versatility, and economy of operation. The only changes are all-composite construction, slightly increased freeboard, and a molded inner liner. Standard features are simple but functional: navigation lights, a stout black rubber rubrail, spray rails, compass, stainless console grab rail, cable steering with single lever throttle/shift, a stainless destroyer wheel, bilge pump with float, and a 28-gallon polyethylene fuel tank with gauge and fuel/water separating filter. The helm seat is a cooler with convertible back. Bow seats port and starboard provide more seating and storage. A folding bimini top and a bow dodger over the seats are optional.

Fishing, beach picnics, tubing, or exploring, our 180 Center Console is up for it, with a micro-sized fuel bill from one of the 50-70-hp clean outboards with which she performs best. As the performance table shows, the 180 CC rises onto plane at speeds in the low teens, cruises efficiently at 16-22 mph, and tops out between 28 and 32, depending on power. Shell play all weekend on half a tank of fuel. And while she has a self-bailing cockpit that adapts well to life on a mooring, she trailers easily behind mid-sized tow vehicles. For boaters who want the simplest vessel possible, the Special Edition comes without an inner liner. Either way, shes a capable little jewel that will do her owner proud.

Features may include:

• Navigation Lights

• Stainless Steel Hardware

• Black Rub Rail

• Spray Rails

• Compass

• Teleflex Steering

• Stainless Destroyer Wheel Electric Bilge Pump & Auto Float 28 Gallon Fuel Tvank, Filter & Water Separator