Choosing the perfect boat can feel like a big decision—especially when legendary names like Boston Whaler, Grady-White, and Pursuit are on your list. Each of these brands brings decades of quality, innovation, and on-the-water experience, but they have real differences that matter. This guide breaks down what sets them apart so you can confidently pick the right one for your needs.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Grady-White Freedom 285 – Renowned for stability, comfort, and customer satisfaction.
- Best Budget: Boston Whaler 230 Vantage – Unmatched safety, excellent resale value, and family-friendly design.
- Best Premium: Pursuit S 328 – Luxury features, strong performance, and top-tier fit and finish.
Buyer’s Guide
Here’s what you should think about before choosing between these top-tier boat brands:
- Intended Use: Will you be fishing, cruising, entertaining, or a mix of everything?
- Build Quality & Hull Design: Look for unsinkable hulls, ride comfort, and construction details.
- Resale Value: Leading brands hold their value much better over time.
- Standard vs Optional Features: Compare which features come standard and what upgrades cost.
- Customer Support: Dealer network, warranties, and owner community can make ownership easier and more enjoyable.
- Layout & Comfort: Pay attention to seating, storage, and how the deck is set up for your family or crew.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Grady-White Freedom 285
Who it’s for: Boaters looking for serious comfort, versatile use, and a hull that handles rough water confidently.
- Key Benefits:
- Exceptional ride comfort and stability.
- Premium finishes and attention to detail.
- Longstanding reputation for customer satisfaction.
- Pros:
- Extremely safe and family-friendly.
- Great fishability and cruising features.
- High resale value.
- Cons:
- Price is on the higher side.
- Heavier hull may require a larger tow vehicle.
Final Verdict: If you want top comfort, peace of mind, and flexible use, the Freedom 285 stands out. See current deals
2. Grady-White Canyon 336
Who it’s for: Hardcore anglers and families who want offshore capability and premium features.
- Key Benefits:
- Robust offshore construction.
- Abundant storage and fishing amenities.
- Spacious head and seating for extended trips.
- Pros:
- Handles rough water with ease.
- First-class customer support.
- Cons:
- Premium pricing.
- Fuel consumption can be high at top speed.
Final Verdict: Ideal for those who demand performance and comfort far from shore. Check pricing
3. Boston Whaler 230 Vantage
Who it’s for: Families and weekend boaters who prioritize safety, easy handling, and versatile fun.
- Key Benefits:
- Legendary “unsinkable” hull construction.
- Simple to operate and easy to maintain.
- Plenty of comfortable seating and storage.
- Pros:
- Safe for beginners and families.
- Great resale value.
- Strong dealer network.
- Cons:
- Ride can be stiffer than heavier boats in rough chop.
- Some features may be optional upgrades.
Final Verdict: A family favorite that’s easy to own and holds its value for years. See more details
4. Boston Whaler 280 Outrage
Who it’s for: Anglers and adventure seekers who need a tough, seaworthy boat for inshore and offshore.
- Key Benefits:
- Unmatched safety and flotation.
- Spacious deck and fishing features.
- Plenty of power for watersports.
- Pros:
- Rugged and reliable.
- Highly respected brand reputation.
- Cons:
- Some models ride a bit firm in heavy chop.
- Top-end pricing.
Final Verdict: A workhorse that’s also ready for family outings or serious fishing. Find out more
5. Pursuit S 328
Who it’s for: Boaters seeking luxury, style, and performance—perfect for entertaining or chasing fish offshore.
- Key Benefits:
- Gorgeous, modern design with luxury touches.
- Excellent speed and handling.
- Top-quality fit, finish, and materials.
- Pros:
- Loaded with technology and comfort features.
- Spacious and versatile layout.
- Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Not as many model choices as larger brands.
Final Verdict: For those who want it all—performance, comfort, and style—the S 328 is hard to top. Shop Pursuit
6. Pursuit DC 295
Who it’s for: Families and couples who want luxury cruising and easy fishing, all in one boat.
- Key Benefits:
- Dual-console versatility for fishing and relaxing.
- High-end build and attention to detail.
- Comfortable seating and amenities for longer days.
- Pros:
- Quiet, smooth ride.
- Lots of storage and usable space.
- Cons:
- Above-average price for the size class.
- May not have as much offshore ability as center consoles.
Final Verdict: A fantastic all-rounder for boaters who appreciate luxury and versatility. View pricing
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Specs / Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grady-White Freedom 285 | Comfort, stability, family-friendly | 28′ LOA, dual-console, 11′ beam | See current deals |
| Grady-White Canyon 336 | Offshore, storage, premium finish | 33’6″ LOA, center console | Check pricing |
| Boston Whaler 230 Vantage | Unsinkable, easy handling, resale | 24′ LOA, dual-console | See more details |
| Boston Whaler 280 Outrage | Safety, fishing, reliability | 28′ LOA, center console | Find out more |
| Pursuit S 328 | Luxury, modern, powerful | 34’6″ LOA, sport | Shop Pursuit |
| Pursuit DC 295 | Versatile, quiet, comfortable | 31′ LOA, dual-console | View pricing |
FAQ Section
- Q: Which brand is best for families new to boating?
A: Boston Whaler and Grady-White both have excellent safety reputations, easy handling, and comfortable layouts, making them great for new boaters and families. - Q: Do these brands hold their value?
A: All three are known for strong resale value, but Boston Whaler and Grady-White, in particular, are legendary for keeping value over time. - Q: Which is most comfortable for offshore trips?
A: Grady-White and Pursuit both stand out for ride comfort in open water, with deep hulls and plush seating for long days at sea. - Q: Are there affordable models from these brands?
A: Entry-level models are still a major investment, but Boston Whaler’s Vantage series and certain Pursuit dual consoles can be more accessible than large offshore boats. - Q: What if I want a mix of fishing and cruising?
A: Dual-console models from all three brands are designed to blend fishing capability with family-friendly features and comfort.
Conclusion
Boston Whaler, Grady-White, and Pursuit all offer standout choices for boaters who want quality, safety, and real value. Your final pick depends on what matters most: ultimate safety, luxurious comfort, hardcore fishing, or family versatility. Explore dealer options near you, step aboard if you can, and take action—the right boat will give you years of pride and adventure on the water.