Boston Whaler 280 Outrage for Sale

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage Specifications

The following specifications reflect the current-production Boston Whaler 280 Outrage. Minor variations exist across model years — particularly in electronics packages and seating options — but the core hull dimensions, construction, and capacity ratings have remained consistent since the 2014 introduction.

The defining specification is the hull construction. Every Boston Whaler uses the proprietary Unibond process: hull and deck are laid up in fiberglass, transferred to a steel mold, and filled under pressure with closed-cell polyurethane foam that expands to bond with every interior surface. The factory has approximately 45 seconds to fill each cavity before the foam begins to rise, and the process is monitored with exacting precision — after curing, each hull is tap-tested with a hammer to detect any voids. The result is a monolithic structure that is structurally stiff, exceptionally quiet underway, and genuinely unsinkable. The 280 Outrage carries a swamped capacity of 4,450 lbs — meaning the boat will remain afloat, upright, and functional even when completely filled with water to the gunwale line. This is not a theoretical claim; it is a tested, demonstrated engineering reality.

The 23-degree deadrise at the transom is the other critical number. In a center console market where some builders flatten the bottom for straight-line speed and at-rest stability, Boston Whaler has maintained a sharp entry that cuts through head seas rather than pounding over them. The variable deadrise sharpens further forward, giving the bow a wave-cleaving forefoot that cushions impacts in rough water. The trade-off is modest: slightly less stability at anchor compared to flatter-bottomed competitors, and a marginally higher planing threshold. But the payoff is a ride quality in genuine offshore conditions that separates the 280 Outrage from boats that look similar at the dock but feel entirely different 30 miles offshore in a building sea.

The hull also features pronounced reverse chines that provide spray deflection and additional stability at rest and at speed. When idling beam-to in building seas, the 9-foot-4-inch beam and reverse chines create remarkable stability — you can stand at the gunwale and work a fish without bracing against the roll. This is a hull designed by people who understand the difference between a comfortable day on the water and a miserable one.

Performance & Handling

The Boston Whaler 280 Outrage is offered with three twin-outboard power configurations, all Mercury — the exclusive outboard partner for Boston Whaler and a natural pairing given that both brands sit under the Brunswick Corporation umbrella. The Mercury relationship means tight integration between hull, engine, rigging, and digital controls, and it means Mercury dealer support at nearly every coastal marina in the United States.

Twin Mercury V8 250 hp FourStroke (500 hp total) — Standard

The base configuration pairs two Mercury 4.6-litre V8 250 hp FourStroke outboards spinning 14 5/8″ × 19″ Revolution 4 propellers. Top speed reaches approximately 47 knots (54 mph) at wide-open throttle. Best cruise is 24.8 knots (28.6 mph) at 3,500 RPM, returning 2.01 mpg for a calculated range of approximately 293 statute miles — more than enough for a full-day offshore run with a comfortable fuel reserve. The twin 250s are the lightest configuration, putting the least stress on the transom and offering the best fuel economy per mile. Each engine retails at approximately USD 28,000, with installation running USD 2,000–5,000 per engine. For the owner who fishes within 30 miles of the inlet and values fuel economy and lower maintenance costs, the twin 250 is the smart money.

Twin Mercury Verado 300 hp V8 (600 hp total) — Popular Upgrade

The mid-range option steps up to Mercury’s Verado platform — a more refined powerhead with superior noise, vibration, and harshness characteristics compared to the standard FourStroke. Top speed reaches approximately 52 knots (60 mph) at 6,750 RPM, a meaningful 6 mph gain over the 250s. Cruising efficiency remains competitive, with best cruise around 26 knots delivering a range of approximately 287 statute miles. The Verado 300 V8 adds electro-hydraulic power steering, Advanced MidSection (AMS) noise reduction, and Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) as standard features. At approximately USD 30,000 per engine, the upcharge over the twin 250s is modest relative to the performance and refinement gains. Most experienced brokers and seasoned Whaler owners will tell you the twin 300 Verado is the best all-around configuration for the 280 Outrage — it delivers the optimal balance of speed, range, refinement, and long-term value.

Twin Mercury Verado 400 hp V10 (800 hp total) — Maximum Performance

For buyers who want maximum speed and the bragging rights that come with V10 power, the twin Mercury Verado 400 hp V10 pushes top speed to approximately 56 knots (64.3 mph) at 6,750 RPM, turning 14 5/8″ × 20″ Revolution 4 propellers. That is a genuine 10 mph advantage over the base twin 250s and makes the 280 Outrage one of the fastest production 28-foot center consoles on the market. Best cruise settles at 25.1 knots (28.9 mph) at 3,250 RPM with a range of approximately 261 statute miles. The catch: each V10 weighs approximately 695 lbs — 95 lbs heavier per engine than the Verado 300 — which adds nearly 200 lbs to the transom and shifts the centre of gravity aft. Each engine retails at approximately USD 45,000, pushing the engine package alone past USD 90,000 before installation. Fuel consumption at wide-open throttle approaches 80 gallons per hour. The twin 400 V10 configuration is for the buyer who prioritises speed above all else — the tournament angler who needs to reach distant grounds first, or the owner who simply wants the most powerful configuration available.

Offshore performance: Regardless of power configuration, the 280 Outrage excels in the conditions that matter most to offshore anglers: punching into a building sea at 25+ knots to reach a fishing ground, holding position in a beam sea while drifting a reef edge, and making the return run with a following sea and fish boxes full of catch. The deep-V hull tracks confidently through turns, resists bow steering in following seas, and delivers a predictable, comfortable ride that lets you focus on fishing rather than bracing for the next wave impact. The hull is dry — the reverse chines knock spray down effectively, and the high bow freeboard keeps green water off the deck in all but the nastiest conditions.

Handling and docking: At just over 28 feet, the 280 Outrage handles predictably in close quarters. Twin outboards provide differential thrust for slow-speed maneuvering, and the boat pivots neatly in its own length when you bump one engine forward and the other in reverse. Optional joystick piloting for outboards (JPO) is available on Verado-equipped models, making docking in crosswinds and tight slips significantly easier. The 280 is a boat that a competent owner can run solo without difficulty — lines of sight from the helm are good, the controls are well-placed, and the hull responds predictably to throttle and helm inputs.

Fishing Features & Layout

The 280 Outrage is, first and foremost, a fishing boat. Boston Whaler’s design philosophy for the Outrage series is built around three pillars: “simple, comfortable, fish.” Every layout decision, every hardware choice, and every square inch of deck space has been considered through the lens of an angler who needs to catch fish efficiently and bring them home safely. The fishing infrastructure is comprehensive and well-thought-out.

Livewells & Bait Management

The deluxe leaning post integrates a 30-gallon livewell with a recirculating pump, LED illumination, and a clear observation window. The livewell is large enough to support a full day’s supply of pilchards, threadfin herring, or live shrimp for inshore work, or goggle-eyes and ballyhoo for offshore trolling and kite fishing. Bait preparation is handled at the leaning post’s built-in cutting board and bait-prep station, with fresh-water washdown plumbed within reach. A raw-water washdown is also standard, allowing you to rinse the cockpit and transom after a bloody day of bottom fishing or chunking.

Fish Boxes & Storage

Twin 54-gallon insulated fish lockers are built into the cockpit sole, flanking the centreline. Each box features foam insulation for ice retention, a pump-out overboard drain for easy cleanout, and a gasketted lid that sits flush with the deck. Combined capacity of 108 gallons is sufficient for a serious offshore haul — enough to hold a half-dozen dolphin, a small tuna, and a limit of snapper without packing concerns. Three additional fish boxes in the bow provide further storage for longer trips or tournament days.

Rod Holders & Rod Storage

The 280 Outrage supports up to 20 rod holders across the boat — a number that reflects Boston Whaler’s understanding that serious anglers carry a quiver of rods rigged for different techniques. Gunwale-mounted flush rod holders line both sides of the cockpit for trolling applications. The T-top hardtop carries additional rocket launcher rod holders for vertical storage of rigged rods. The leaning post includes its own holders, and optional Taco Marine Grand Slam outriggers can be mounted on the hardtop for spread trolling patterns. Under the forward-console lounge, a lockable “garage” compartment provides horizontal rod storage — a valuable feature that keeps expensive rods and reels out of sun, spray, and the possibility of damage during rough runs.

Cockpit & Deck Layout

The aft cockpit is the business end of the boat. The sole is non-skid and self-draining through strategically placed scuppers. A comfortable aft bench folds cleanly away to maximise fish-fighting room. The port-side dive door provides low-freeboard access for boarding from a dock, pulling in a gaff-shot fish, or deploying divers. Coaming bolsters line the gunwales for padded support during prolonged fights.

Forward of the console, the bow converts between a fishing platform and a social lounge. Remove the cushions for a clean casting platform with 360-degree access; install them for a curved bow bench that seats four adults. A uniquely designed seating nook in the bow is one of the more comfortable spots on the boat underway — protected from spray and wind.

T-Top & Helm Station

The fiberglass hardtop is a Boston Whaler signature: a rigid, integrated structure that provides all-day shade over the helm and primary fishing stations without the maintenance requirements, UV degradation, or flapping of a fabric enclosure. The hardtop carries five integrated rod holders, dual spreader lights for night fishing and docking, stereo speakers, and antenna mounts for VHF, GPS, and optional radar. Optional Taco Marine Grand Slam outrigger mounts bolt directly to the hardtop for clean rigging of trolling outriggers.

The helm station centres around a Simrad NSO evo3S 16-inch multifunction display with GPS, chart plotter, and fishfinder, paired with an Active Imaging 3-in-1 transom-mount transducer. The electronics are pre-wired for optional upgrades including HALO radar, additional MFDs, FLIR thermal cameras, satellite weather, and VHF with DSC. A JL Audio stereo system with six waterproof speakers, an 8-inch subwoofer, and an 800-watt amplifier comes standard.

Inside the console, a portable marine toilet and shower provide essential amenities for full-day trips. Optional deluxe helm seating includes an adjustable captain’s chair and a stationary companion seat, with jump seats flanking the console.

Ownership & Running Costs

The 280 Outrage sits in the premium tier of the 28-foot center console market, and ownership costs reflect both the quality of the platform and the twin-outboard power required to drive it. A US-based owner should budget approximately USD 14,000–35,000 per year in operating costs, depending on usage frequency, storage arrangement, and geographic location:

• Insurance: 1.0–2.0% of hull value, depending on location, operator experience, and navigation area. For a 280 Outrage insured at USD 200,000–380,000, expect approximately USD 2,000–6,000 per year. Florida and Gulf Coast policies may carry hurricane surcharges. Offshore fishing endorsements and high-speed ratings can increase premiums further.
• Slip or storage: Wet slip fees range from USD 3,000–10,000+ annually depending on location. Southeast Florida, the Florida Keys, and Northeast harbours command the highest rates. Dry-stack storage is a popular and practical alternative at USD 2,400–7,200 per year, with the significant benefit of keeping the hull out of the water — eliminating bottom paint, reducing marine growth, and preserving the running surface. At 28 feet and under 9,000 lbs loaded, the 280 Outrage fits comfortably in most dry-stack facilities.
• Engine service: Mercury outboards require annual service including oil and filter change, gear lube replacement, anode inspection, and water pump impeller replacement at intervals. Budget USD 1,200–2,500 for twin engines annually at a Mercury dealer. The Verado V10 400 hp may carry a slight service premium due to the larger powerhead and higher oil capacity. Mercury’s dealer network is the most extensive in the outboard industry throughout the US and Caribbean.
• Fuel: The largest variable cost. Twin 250s consume approximately 20–25 gallons per hour at cruising speed; twin 300 Verados are in the 25–30 gph range. At current US marina fuel prices (approximately USD 5.00–5.50 per gallon), a typical 80–100 hour fishing season costs roughly USD 8,000–16,500 depending on power configuration and cruising habits. Owners who fish aggressively — 100+ hours per year with extended offshore runs — should budget toward the higher end.
• Bottom maintenance: For wet-slipped boats, annual haul-out and bottom paint costs approximately USD 1,500–3,000. Dry-stacked boats avoid this cost entirely — one of the strongest arguments for dry storage on a boat of this size.
• Miscellaneous: Registration, fishing licenses, tackle, safety equipment, and electronics updates add USD 500–2,000 per year. Budget for periodic stainless hardware maintenance and gelcoat touch-up as part of long-term ownership.

New pricing: A new 2025–2026 Boston Whaler 280 Outrage starts at approximately USD 250,000 with the base twin Mercury 250 hp configuration. Optioned with twin Mercury Verado 300 hp engines, Simrad electronics upgrades, premium seating, T-top accessories, and dealer preparation, most retail transactions fall in the USD 320,000–400,000 range. Fully loaded boats with twin Verado 400 V10s and every available option can approach or exceed USD 425,000. A custom configuration can be built through Boston Whaler’s online Build & Price tool.

Resale strength: Boston Whaler consistently ranks among the strongest-reselling brands in the recreational marine industry. The combination of the unsinkable construction, the Boston Whaler name, and relentless demand in the center console segment means the 280 Outrage holds its value exceptionally well. A well-known industry rule of thumb estimates Whaler depreciation at approximately 15% in year one, 7% per year in years two and three, and 4% per year through year nine — significantly slower than most competitors. Three-year-old examples typically retain 75–85% of their original purchase price, and well-maintained boats with low engine hours command strong premiums on the brokerage market. This resale strength substantially offsets the higher initial purchase price and makes the total cost of ownership more attractive than the sticker price alone suggests.

Buying Guide: How to Buy a Boston Whaler 280 Outrage

Buying New

New 280 Outrages are available through Boston Whaler’s authorised dealer network, with major retailers including MarineMax, Russo Marine, and regional independents. Expect dealer preparation and destination charges of USD 5,000–10,000 on top of MSRP. Popular configurations (twin 300 Verado with premium electronics) may involve 8–16 week lead times depending on factory scheduling and dealer inventory.

Buying Pre-Owned

Pre-owned 280 Outrages from 2016–2024 trade between approximately USD 120,000–350,000, with model year, engine hours, power configuration, and electronics driving the spread. The sweet spot for value-oriented buyers is a 2019–2022 boat with 200–400 engine hours and a documented service history from a Mercury dealer. These boats offer the proven hull with 3–6 years of depreciation already absorbed, yet the engines are still well within their useful service life (1,500–2,000+ hours for modern Mercury outboards with proper maintenance). Earlier model years (2014–2018) can be found in the USD 120,000–200,000 range and represent excellent value if the engines have been maintained and the electronics are reasonably current.

Key Inspection Points

• Outboard engines: Check engine hours (displayed on the Mercury SmartCraft gauge), review service records (Mercury dealer stamps are preferred), verify compression readings, and inspect lower unit condition for fishing line wrap damage and gear oil contamination. Mercury outboards are reliable, but hours matter: 500+ hours per year suggests heavy commercial-style usage. Check powerheads for corrosion, particularly on boats that have spent their lives in saltwater.
• Hull and foam core: While the Unibond foam-core construction is inherently robust, inspect the hull bottom for impact damage from groundings or dock strikes. Tap-test the hull for delamination. The foam core means water intrusion is less of a concern than on conventional hulls, but be aware that improperly sealed hardware installations — a common issue when aftermarket equipment is added by previous owners — can allow moisture into the foam over time. A suspect hull should be weighed and compared to factory dry weight.
• Electrical and electronics: Modern center consoles carry substantial electronics loads. Test all systems including MFDs, sonar, radar (if equipped), VHF, stereo, navigation lights, livewell pumps, bilge pumps, and trim tabs. Verify battery condition and charging system output. Check wiring runs for chafe or corrosion, particularly in the bilge and behind the helm console. Marine electronics depreciate rapidly — budget for MFD upgrades on boats older than 5–7 years.
• T-top and hardtop: Inspect the fiberglass hardtop for stress cracks at mounting points and hardware attachment areas. Check that spreader lights, antenna mounts, rod holders, and any aftermarket additions are properly sealed. Hardtop gelcoat can chalky and fade with UV exposure — this is cosmetic but may indicate overall care level.
• Livewells and fish boxes: Run the livewell pump and check flow rate, drain function, and condition of the livewell interior. Inspect fish box gaskets, insulation integrity, and pump-out drain function. These are working components that see hard use on an actively fished boat.

A professional marine survey is strongly recommended for any pre-owned purchase at this price level. Budget USD 1,000–2,000 for a comprehensive survey including an out-of-water hull inspection, engine diagnostic scan, sea trial, and full systems check.

Warranty: Boston Whaler offers a 10-year limited hull warranty and a 3-year warranty on components — terms that exceed most competitors. Mercury outboards carry a separate 3-year warranty (extendable to 5 years). Verify warranty transfer eligibility on pre-owned purchases.

Competitors & Alternatives

The 26–30 ft center console segment is one of the most fiercely contested markets in recreational boating. The 280 Outrage competes on construction quality, brand heritage, and resale value rather than price — it is never the cheapest option in any comparison, but it is consistently among the best-built and strongest-reselling platforms in the class.

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage vs Grady-White Freedom 285

Grady-White is the other blue-chip name in the center console world, and the Freedom 285 is the most natural cross-shop for the 280 Outrage buyer. The Freedom 285 is a dual-console design, which gives it a significant advantage in family versatility — the port-side companion console with windshield and forward seating creates a more protected ride for passengers and a better layout for mixed-use days. Grady-White’s proprietary SeaV² hull design delivers an exceptionally smooth and dry ride, and the brand has won more customer satisfaction awards (CSI) than any other boat builder in the industry. The Boston Whaler counters with the unsinkable foam-core construction that no competitor can match, a purer fishing-focused center console layout with more open deck space, and stronger brand recognition in many coastal markets. Pricing is similar — the Grady-White may be marginally less expensive on a like-for-like basis, but both brands command premium dollars. The choice often comes down to whether the buyer prioritises the dual-console family layout (Grady-White) or the unsinkable fishing machine ethos (Boston Whaler).

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage vs Cobia 280 DC

The Cobia 280 DC is a Florida-built dual-console that competes on value and features per dollar. Cobia uses its proprietary VARIS (Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion System) construction, which produces a lighter, more uniform fiberglass layup than traditional hand-laid methods. The Cobia typically comes in USD 30,000–50,000 less than a comparably equipped 280 Outrage for a boat of similar size and capability. The 280 DC offers Yamaha power options alongside Mercury, giving buyers more flexibility. Where the Boston Whaler separates itself is in the unsinkable construction (VARIS is excellent but not foam-filled), significantly stronger resale value, and deeper dealer and service network. The Cobia is an outstanding choice for the buyer who wants premium features at a lower entry price and is comfortable trading some long-term resale value for a lower initial investment.

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage vs Pursuit S 288 Sport

The Pursuit S 288 Sport is another Brunswick Corporation stablemate (Pursuit is also owned by Brunswick) and offers a compelling sport-focused alternative. The S 288 is a centre console with a more aggressive hull design oriented toward speed and offshore performance. Pursuit builds a very well-finished boat with excellent attention to detail, and the S 288 offers Yamaha outboard options that appeal to buyers who prefer Yamaha reliability and parts availability. The Pursuit typically prices slightly below the Boston Whaler for a comparable specification. The Boston Whaler advantage is the foam-core unsinkable construction, broader market recognition, and slightly stronger resale. The Pursuit advantage is a sportier driving experience, Yamaha power choice, and arguably more cockpit space per foot of hull length. Both are well-built platforms backed by Brunswick’s corporate support and warranty infrastructure.

Boston Whaler 280 Outrage vs Everglades 335cc

The Everglades 335cc is a larger (33 ft 6 in), more expensive platform, but it is a frequent cross-shop for the 280 Outrage buyer who is considering whether to step up in size. Everglades uses RAMCAP (Rapid Molded Core Assembly Process) construction that produces a unitised, foam-filled hull similar in concept to Boston Whaler’s Unibond approach. The company was founded by Bob Dougherty, who was Boston Whaler’s longtime chief designer — and the DNA shows. The Everglades 335cc features a signature retractable glass windshield at the helm and more interior volume than the 280 Outrage. For the buyer who wants a foam-core construction comparable to Boston Whaler but with more fishing space and is willing to step up in price and overall size, the Everglades is a compelling alternative. The Boston Whaler counters with its unmatched brand recognition, larger dealer network, superior resale data, and a lower entry point at the 280 size.

For a full interactive comparison between the Boston Whaler 280 Outrage and other models, visit the Hulls.io Market Intelligence tool.