Highlights include a cockpit that is every bit as big as most 25-footers, a clever removable cooler that doubles as forward seating, access to the bow all at deck level, and a handsome, well-engineered optional T-top integrated into the console structure.                

“Our focus in re-engineering this center console was first and foremost to add a useful-sized head area,” says Joey Weller, vice president of sales and marketing for Grady-White. “But that was far from all. Grady-White builds a complete line of ten different center console models from 18 to 36 feet in length and we wanted to integrate some of our bigger center console features into this good-looking 20-footer including the optional T-top. Plus, we’ve made it ready for the new generation of highly efficient Yamaha engines coming to market. We think that a lot of things come together in the Fisherman 209 to create a terrific choice in a smaller Grady-White center console for young families.”

                        “The new Fisherman 209 is designed, of course, to be powered by a single Yamaha four stroke engine and the super-efficient new generation 200 or 250 HP engine is a great match for this boat,” continues Weller. “Combine this efficient power with Grady-White’s exclusive SeaV²® hull, and you really have a wonderful, safe and solid ride at almost any speed and condition.”

                        “We looked to our new 23-foot Fisherman 230 when we worked on creating the head area on the Fisherman 209,” says David Neese,

LOA without outboard 20’ 4”, beam 97”, Max Hp 250,  82 gallon fuel tank

The 44 Hardtop Express is unlike any CABO that has come before!

The integrated hardtop signifies the next step in express design evolution for CABO, utilizing its three-sided enclosure to offer better protection from the elements, improved visibility, and greater comfort on the helm deck. Below deck, the interior offers a luxurious living space equal to the CABO 45 Express it replaces, and larger than most competitor’s models in this range. The most dramatic difference in the layout is the addition of either an optional second stateroom, or an angler’s room. Another intuitive touch is the placement of a full-length galley counter against the aft bulkhead, making access to appliances easier while creating more floor space in the living/dining area.

Like many of the latest CABOs to be introduced in the past few years, the 44′s foundation is a Michael Peters designed hull. From there, the propulsion design, electrical systems, and attention to detail is executed in the same manner that built CABO’s reputation for a rugged and efficient build.
    

Like every CABO ever built, the design for this boat began in the cockpit to make sure that it meets the demands of serious anglers. Like many of the latest CABOs to be introduced in the past few years, the 44′s foundation is a Michael Peters designed hull. From there, the propulsion design, electrical systems, and attention to detail is executed in the same manner that built CABO’s reputation for a rugged and efficient build.

Grady White is a center console boat builder. They offer ten “Fisherman” or “Canyon” fish boat models. Fisherman and Canyon are Grady White model names for a  center console fish boat.

Why then, does seabuddy / chris brown and others think of Grady White boats as a walkaround cabin boat builder?

Let’s go back in time and see the answer.

During the 1974 model year, Grady White saw an deck and layout boat design at a Chicago Boat Show. They liked it, so why it did not sell well? Their insight said it was the usual hull shape of a cross between a Tri-Hull and Catamaran Hull. But, it’s short forward located cabin with a foot well recess going around that small cabin to the bow for fish fighting offered real benefits over a open center console. Gtady White reasoned that by putting that small forward-located cabin and walkaround on their vee shaped hull would match that “liked” deck design to their better running hull design and at the same time give Grady White a real one-upmanship over other boat builders.

Thus the 1975 Overnighter Hatteras 204-C was born.

This model made the fresh water boat building company more of a salt water boat builder and with a unique model usefulness that gave Grady White a ten year head start over other fish boat companies. They had the style when others did not and built a good boat. Thus, the walkaround fish boat and Grady White became its signature style and the style image that most boaters think of when they hear “Grady White”..

2011 model year Grady-White boat

The Freedom is a Grady-White family cruiser

Grady-White Launches “Ultimate in Versatility,” New 25-Foot Freedom 255 Comfort-Filled, Bred-For-the-Ocean Family Cruiser

Specs: 24’ 9” with a 8’ 6” beam, fuel capacity is 153 gal., weight without a motor is 4,375 lbs. Built to take and work well with the Yamaha 350 Hp outboard

A Grady–White spokesperson is quoted by seabuddy…

“…Aboard the Freedom 255, there is roomy bulk storage under the bow seating for all kinds of gear–you name it. The starboard console offers a big bulk storage area roomy enough for camping gear, beach toys and more. The stand up enclosed head area in the port console is roomy and convenient for a day on the water with the family. There is plenty of room in that head area for fishing rods plus storage nets and bulk storage areas… “

Seabuddy says…I test drove the last new boat from Grady-White in South Florida in Feburary and that one’s ride set a new standard for ride and handling for me in its class. This one should prove to be another class leading winner from the Grady-White…”

more to come in another post

Six, now seven, photos of the new FX 21 from Skeeter with a Yamaha 2010 Yamaha 250 Hp outboard.

She is 20′ 8″ by 7′ 10 1/2″ with a 50 gallon fuel tank and a person capacity of 700 lbs.

www.skeeterboats.com/

Top – of – line Chairs for two fishermen – flip-up bolster, arm rests, good sight lines are all here.