Cobia 280 CC: 2023 Boat Buyers Guide

The 280 CC mixes creature comforts with fishability.
Cobia 280 CC offshore
The 280 CC is powered by twin Yamaha ­outboards. Courtesy Cobia Boats

Cobia Boats is part of Maverick Boat Group, along with Maverick, Hewes and Pathfinder brands, comprising one of the most respected names in the marine industry. 

When Maverick bought the hallowed Cobia brand in 2005, it immediately began refining the brand’s quality, design, and performance to match its three other nameplates, all known as easy-to-fish, uncluttered, and fishing-focused. Like them, Cobias balance freeboard for safety and fishability, boast handholds that are out of the way and yet handy, and offer intuitive helms and easy-to-operate convertible parts. 

Cobia 280 CC

Cobia’s popular 277 CC has become the 280 CC. To the former’s proven running surface, smart layout, and abundant fishing features has been added a console design integrating a strong and stylish hardtop frame, a full three-sided windshield with electric wiper and vent, and an acrylic infinity dash ready for a full array of Garmin electronics.

Fishing features include two 47-gallon insulated fish boxes with macerated overboard drains; a 42-gallon livewell is optional. The helm seat features a tackle station and upgraded seating. Additional fishing options include kingfish and kite rod holders, and hardtop outriggers.

Cobia 280 CC helm
Console design integrates a strong and stylish hardtop frame, a full three-sided windshield with electric wiper and vent, and an acrylic infinity dash. Courtesy Cobia Boats

A 25-inch transom and optional cockpit toe rails provide a secure setting for battle with the roomy 94-square-foot cockpit.

The 280 CC boasts a full-feature head, and freshwater showers at transom and console sink. 

For  sure-footed angling and boating ease, a boarding-ladder is hidden beneath a hatch, while the recessed bow rail and fold-down cleats and nav lights avoid tangles and snags. Even the anchor tucks into the bow; a windlass is optional.

The 280 CC is powered by twin Yamaha outboards, F200s or F300s with digital electronic steering.

Manufacturer’s Remark

At Cobia, our quality sets us apart. And the best just keeps getting better.

Performance Data

  • Test Power: Twin Yamaha F300XSB
  • Test Props: Yamaha Saltwater Series II, 15″ x 21″
  • Test Load: Three people, 120 gal. of fuel, three batteries, and safety and test equipment
  • Test Speed: 59.3 mph at 5,900 rpm
  • Max Range: 381 miles (90% of 189 gal. fuel capacity at 2.24 mpg, 28.9 mph, 3,000 rpm) 

Specs

LOA:27’7″
Beam:9’8″
Fuel Capacity:189 gal.
Dry Weight:6,610 lb. plus power
Max HP:600
Certifications:NMMA

Editor Says

Center-console boats used to be bare-bones affairs, but Cobia’s 280 CC bucks the trend. The console hides a spacious head with a front entrance for easy access. Other comforts include an integrated under-seat cooler and hideaway bow table that make long days on the water more comfortable. -Joe Albanese, Executive Editor Salt Water Sportsman

More Info

cobiaboats.com