Formula Introduces 457 Center Console Sport and Fish: Bigger Day Boats for Cruising and Fishing

Indiana-based builder Formula Boats is expanding its popular open day-boat lineup with two new 457 Center Console models designed for both serious anglers and owners who favor multi-purpose day cruising. Building on the success of the 387 Center Console Sport and 387 Center Console Fish, Formula will debut the 457 Center Console Sport (CCS) and the 457 Center Console Fish (CCF) at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show.

Overview and Design Intent

The two new 457 models keep Formula’s focus on performance, practical layout and creature comforts while increasing on-deck space and long-range capability. At 45 feet, 7 inches LOA and 13 feet, 9 inches beam, the 457 boats offer more room for cockpit activities, larger social spaces and expanded belowdecks compared with the brand’s 387 models. Both versions are tailored to distinct owner priorities: the CCS for versatile day boating, entertaining and watersports, and the CCF optimized for serious offshore fishing.

Power and Performance

Formula specifies triple Mercury 600 Verado outboards on both the 457 CCS and CCF, giving the boats confidence-inspiring acceleration, top-end speed and efficient cruising. The outboard package is designed to complement the hull’s performance characteristics, delivering stable handling across a range of sea conditions whether you’re heading offshore for a day of fishing or running to a favorite cruising spot.

Cockpit Layout: Sport vs. Fish

The cockpit layouts emphasize the different uses. The 457 Center Console Sport (CCS) features a sculpted aft lounge that maximizes seating and social space for entertaining, with an optional cockpit galley that adds a refrigerator, sink or other amenities for hosting friends and family. The CCS layout is ideal for owners who want a day boat capable of cruising, relaxing and watersports.

By contrast, the 457 Center Console Fish (CCF) is configured with anglers in mind. Seating in the CCF can fold up and stow away to clear the cockpit for fishing. Where the CCS offers a cockpit galley, the CCF provides an optional bait station and wet bar to support productive fishing days. The 457 CCF also includes a 100-gallon live well and a large fish box with a 280-gallon capacity, meeting the needs of tournament anglers and serious sport fishermen.

Bow, Hardtop and Angling Equipment

Both the sport and fish variants share a comfortable bow area with a sun lounge, wraparound seating and a power-adjustable table that stows neatly when not in use. Each model comes equipped with a robust hardtop; the fishing-focused hardtop on the CCF is additionally fitted with outriggers to support offshore trolling and spread patterns. These features combine comfort and function for families and fishermen alike.

Helm and Electronics

The helm is laid out with modern electronics integration in mind, providing space for three large displays so captains can view navigation, engine systems and fishfinding data simultaneously. Comfort at the helm is supported by reverse-cycle air conditioning at the primary helm station to cool the three helm seats. Owners who want climate control for passengers seated in the second row can add air vents to extend cooling aft.

Belowdecks Comfort and Amenities

Belowdeck, the 457 models provide a spacious cabin designed for comfortable day use and occasional overnighting. With 6 feet, 6 inches of headroom, the cabin includes a full galley with microwave, refrigerator and sink, plus a U-shaped lounge with a dining table. The cabin contains a private head with a separate shower, and the interior converts to sleep two in a comfortable berth—allowing for short cruises or overnight stays when needed.

Heritage and Reception

Formula’s move to expand the center-console family follows favorable reviews for the 387 Center Console Fish. In 2022, Sea Trials contributor Charlie Levine evaluated the 387 CCF and described it as a well-organized, solid and spacious fishing platform. The 457 series aims to deliver those same strengths while offering increased size, amenities and flexibility.

Availability and Shows

Formula will officially unveil the 457 Center Console Sport and 457 Center Console Fish at the 2024 Miami International Boat Show. The company has indicated that additional details and specifications will be released at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. These new models broaden Formula’s center-console offerings for buyers seeking a premium, performance-oriented day boat tailored to either recreational cruising or serious offshore fishing.

This article was originally published in the November 2023 issue.