Grady-White Express 340

Grady-White’s new Express 340 represents a reimaginged Express 330 with more deck space, more fishability and  more luxury. Underneath it all lies Grady-White’s SeaV² continuously variable V-hull. The deadrise progressively sharpens from 20 degrees at the transom to around 30 degrees amidships to a sharp stem that cleaves through waves. It delivers a soft ride in head seas, and displays exceptional stability.

In my test aboard hull No. 1 powered with triple Yamaha 350s, the Express 340 achieved a top speed of 56.9 mph at 5,950 rpm. More impressive for long-range anglers is the most economical cruise of 29.8 mph at 3,500 rpm, burning just 25.5 gph for a range exceeding 310 miles with a 10-percent reserve. 

The helm station features space for dual 19-inch Garmin displays with integrated engine functions and a Yamaha gauge to starboard. The tilt steering wheel fronts a clearly visible and conveniently reached array of flush-mounted switches that simplify both operations. The addition of circuit breakers above each switch is both a convenience and a nod to safety, allowing resets without leaving the helm. This is costlier to install and one of the examples of how Grady elevates its boats above much of the competition.

The Yamaha Helm Master EX Full Maneuverability joystick ties into the autopilot and enables StayPoint station keeping, FishPoint for maintaining position over structure, and DriftPoint for controlled drifting—all without constant helm management. When waiting for a position at the fuel dock, the station-keeping feature is invaluable. Docking with the joystick proves intuitive.

Grady-White completely redesigned the hardtop superstructure, eliminating much of the traditional pipework. The result is a sleeker profile with increased rigidity and improved visibility. An electromechanically operated center vent and forward-facing sunroof ushers fresh air through the helm deck, supplemented by optional 18,000 Btu air conditioning. The electrically adjustable helm seat swivels 90 degrees for conversation when anchored, and full-enclosure curtains stow conveniently aboard.

The cockpit maximizes fishability by eliminating a transom door, replaced with port and starboard side boarding doors. This offers ample boarding access, along with a handy place to pull aboard a big tuna or swordfish from either side. Dual doors also leave the transom open for a 166-quart aft fish box with optional freezer/refrigerator digital controls. An 87-quart insulated box is plumbed for fresh water with a faucet and drains overboard, making it either a useful cooler or a bait-prep area. The transom also boasts a 30-gallon live well with full-column distribution that keeps baits frisky, as well as a handy hot and cold water supply for showering.

Rod holders abound: four in the cockpit, horizontal hangers in the hardtop for prized tuna sticks, and additional side mounts on the hardtop structure. When the folding seat is tucked back in the transom, the seat-back cushion aligns with the cockpit-surrounding bolsters, adding comfort to anglers bracing against the transom in rough seas. Additional tackle storage in the transom, along with cutting boards on the hatches means you can cut up frozen bait for chum or slice up squid strips for bait when bottom fishing. 

The convertible mezzanine seating exemplifies Grady’s versatile engineering. Flip down the backrest on the port side to reveal a Dekton synthetic stone-like surface ideal for rigging trolling lures or prepping food for the optional grill on the opposite side of the cockpit.  Storage behind the seat back is set up for wine bottles with a removable rack. Storage beneath accommodates tackle and also has a 120-volt outlet ready for the blender. You set the priorities for the day and set the boat up to support your plans.

Below deck, Grady-White demonstrates why form and function needn’t be mutually exclusive. The galley features a Dekton countertop, stainless-steel sink, glass cooktop, stainless-steel refrigerator, and microwave. The cabinetry in an oak veneer is complete with solid oak-fluted doors that store galley gear while supporting Grady’s strong commitment to styling utility. Throughout the cabin, multiple textures of vinyl, sea-grass panels and recessed lighting create visual interest. The electrically adjustable cocktail table rises for dining or drops flush with the wraparound seating to complete a double berth with an added cushion. For dining, the most forward berth cushion electrically raises into a seating position.

Access to the midcabin berth has been dramatically improved—no more crawling on hands and knees. The raised portside passage allows easy entry to the double berth with a memory-foam topper. Storage and light play a role in giving it an open airy feel.

The redesigned head compartment is equally inviting and features a freshwater sink with Dekton countertop, and a VacuFlush marine head. A separate Italian-style shower head is adjustable over the commode, and a fold-down teak bench lets you sit while showering.

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Lifting the bilge hatch reveals extension handles on all seacocks, while additional service-access points lie under the berth amidships with their own convenient extensions. Grady also takes care that every seacock works smoothly and easily. The engine’s flush system accepts a garden hose at the transom for convenient post-trip maintenance. Battery switches hide behind the port transom cabinet, keeping the cockpit clean.

Standard equipment includes an 8 kW diesel generator with a dedicated 13-gallon fuel tank, bow thruster for tight-quarters maneuvering, and a SureShade electrically retractable cockpit shade with Sunbrella canvas. The Express 340 proves that a boat can be hardcore fishable while pampering its crew with cruising amenities—all wrapped in styling that turns heads at every marina.

Specifications

Grady-White Boats – Greenville, North Carolina; 252-752-2111; gradywhite.com