Center consoles have been the dominant trend at boat shows for several years, but dual-console designs are gaining traction—especially when owners want maximum seating and social space. Boston Whaler’s new 320 Vantage is the largest in the builder’s dual-console lineup, joining the 230 and 270 Vantage models. Designed around family time, entertaining and active days on the water, the 320 Vantage emphasizes flexible seating, ample storage and a user-friendly deck layout that easily adapts from cruising to swimming, fishing or watersports.
One of the most notable aspects of the 320 Vantage is its thoughtful seating arrangements. The two settees on the port side convert into multiple configurations: they can be positioned as forward- or aft-facing double seats or combined into a full sunpad. The forward-facing seat opposite the helm is electrically actuated, raising and lowering at the touch of a button. In the bow, wraparound seating provides a comfortable social area for guests. In the cockpit, a cleverly engineered bench seat extends while its backrest rises into an ergonomically sound position—addressing a common complaint about low, uncomfortable backrests on many boats.
Boston Whaler has designed the 320 Vantage from the keel up as a true dual-console boat rather than adapting an existing walkaround. This purpose-built approach is reflected in the layout, storage solutions and the balance between open deck space and protected living areas. The port and starboard console compartments are fitted to support overnighting and extended outings: the port console houses a convertible berth while the starboard console contains a head. These accommodations make the 320 Vantage practical for weekend trips without sacrificing cockpit function.
A cockpit utility center consolidates everyday conveniences—there’s a sink, dedicated cooler and generous storage, with options for an onboard grill and refrigerator. A dive door is standard equipment, simplifying water access for swimmers, divers and watersports enthusiasts; Boston Whaler notes this is an option that can add substantial cost on other boats but comes standard here. Standard fittings also include a windlass for easy anchoring, a hardtop for protection and shading, trim tabs for improved performance and handling, and a porcelain VacuFlush electric head for comfort and hygiene.
Power options are broad to match owners’ needs. Most 320 Vantages will be equipped with twin Mercury Verado 300s, although the design can accept power up to 700 horsepower total. With twin 350 Verados installed, the 320 recorded a cruise fuel economy of about 1.22 mpg at just under 34 mph and delivers a top speed near 51 mph. Those figures give a sense of the boat’s performance envelope while emphasizing its capability for both spirited cruising and efficient travel between destinations.
The 320 Vantage balances performance, comfort and practicality. Its layout accommodates multiple uses throughout a typical day on the water—breakfast in the bow, an afternoon of tubing or wakeboarding, a swim stop using the convenient dive door, and a casual barbecue or drinks in the cockpit. Large onboard fuel and water capacities support longer outings: the boat carries 275 gallons of fuel, 30 gallons of freshwater and 6.5 gallons of waste capacity. The hull’s 21-degree transom deadrise helps the boat cut through chop while maintaining a stable platform at rest.
Specifications
LOA: 32 feet, 1 inch
Beam: 10 feet, 4 inches
Weight: 8,900 pounds (dry, no engines)
Draft: 1 foot, 10 inches
Standard power: twin 250-hp Mercury Verados (300- and 350-hp options available)
Speed: 51 mph top, 34 mph cruise (with 350s)
Transom deadrise: 21 degrees
Tankage: 275 gallons fuel, 30 gallons water, 6.5 gallons waste
Price: $270,350 (with 250s)
Boston Whaler’s 320 Vantage is aimed at buyers who want the roomy, sociable layout of a deck boat combined with the refinement and seaworthiness expected from a luxury-built hull. It suits families and active boaters who need seating for friends, secure storage for gear, and practical amenities for day-to-night use. The versatile seating and convertible living spaces allow owners to tailor the boat to each outing—whether prioritizing sun lounging, social seating, fishing access or overnight comfort.
For more information, contact Boston Whaler in Edgewater, Florida, or call (877) 294-5645.
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May 2015 issue