2023 Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer

The 281 CE Coastal Explorer surpasses all expectations with its exceptional design and its unparalleled performance. Packed with Grady’s latest innovations, that add style, form, and function, this boat is primed for fishability and overflowing with luxury features that promise to delight avid anglers hungry for a versatile fishing machine and their family members dreaming about a sandbar chariot. Built on Grady-White’s legendary SeaV2® hull, with its wave-cutting, continuously variable vee design, this boat was specifically created to venture into shallower waters, but easily goes where others in its class wouldn’t dare.

The latest and greatest Grady innovation begins with the standard portside sport deck with electromechanically folding platform including a stowable boarding ladder–perfect for landing fish or as a large swim and dive platform. Grady’s ingenuity continues with the newly designed aft bench that can be configured for three different uses. Add the cushions, place the backrests in the forward position, and insert the optional center backrest for comfortable seating for three or more, remove the center backrest and swing the port and starboard backrests forward to create a lounge area, or remove the cushions and turn the backrests aft for a walkthrough that creates a large casting platform with ample space to fight the catch of the day.

Forward thinking design elements easily transition the bow from a fishing platform to a luxurious lounge. Electromechanically adjustable backrests can be lowered to create a large casting platform or add the cushions and raise the backrests for ultra-comfortable seating or a spacious sun pad. If you plan to entertain as much as you fish, add the optional bow table package and you’ll be ready to toast to a successful day at the fishing grounds while you relax on a sunset cruise.

Everything that makes a Grady-White boat a top-of-the-line fishing machine can be found on the 281 CE, starting with the full height, scratch-resistant acrylic windshield that’s integrated into the T-top with a painted aluminum frame, storage net, LED spreader lights, rod holders, tri-colored LED recessed lights, radar flat, and outrigger plates. Under the T-top, the captain and first mate will ride comfortably in plush seats with backrest, and split flip-up bolsters. Upgrade to the Elite Lean Bar with Command Elite helm chairs for even more comfort. The captain will love the ease of steering with standard Helm Master EX® with integrated digital electric steering, the abundant space for two large display screens, and easy access to a multitude of standard features that are close at hand including hydraulic trim tabs with indicators and auto retract, an anchor windlass, and windshield wiper with washer, just to name a few. On the way to the fishing grounds the crew can prep bait at the deluxe lean bar complete with a 38- gallon livewell, rigging station, cutting board, lure holder, lockable storage drawers and tackle trays, and recessed freshwater shower. Another 18-gallon livewell, at the transom, provides plenty of bait so you can fill both 70-quart fish boxes in the bow. A 296-quart fishbox/cooler under the forward console seat with a removable divider is the perfect spot for fish, drinks, lunch, and snacks.

Other creature comforts on this go-anywhere boat include a lockable console with a privacy tinted window, LED indirect lighting, bulk storage, a marine head with electric flush, and a 10-gallon holding tank. Take your experience to the next level with the standard stereo system which includes a waterproof color touchscreen display, an AM/FM tuner, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth® connectivity, and speakers with LED lights in the bow, cockpit, and T-top.

Grady-White recognizes boat owners have varying preferences and needs regarding power and amenities, so this boat can be equipped with a single Yamaha 425 or dual Yamaha 300 engine configuration, both with digital integrated electric steering. Additional optional features include Helm Master EXFull Maneuverability with autopilot; trolling motor pre-rigging with a swivel mounting bracket with quick release, a head stabilizer, 36V battery system, and a 20-amp battery charger (trolling motor not included); and an outrigger kit. Optional amenities for a day of cruising and fun in the sun include a SureShade® electrically retractable cockpit shade, Easy up bow shade, and a ski arch or pylon (dependent on engine selection).