Boston Whaler 380 Outrage: 2018 Boat Buyers Guide

One of our most reviewed — and arguably one of fishing’s best-known and most-recognized — nameplates, Boston Whaler prides itself on bringing to market “the safest, easiest to own, most exciting boats on the water.” It’s been doing that for almost 60 years, developing what it embraces as the “Unsinkable Legend,” seaworthiness even beyond its famous foam.

Yes, a Boston Whaler’s hull and liner are joined while still in their molds to withstand the forces that develop when foam is injected. The three components fuse into a single unit, what the company calls its Unibond construction process. While that proven technique is still used to produce the famously unsinkable boats, designs continue to evolve to serve boaters’ (and particularly anglers’) diverse and changing needs. What doesn’t change is the use of yacht-quality hardware, through-hull fittings bonded to the hull, and hose fittings sealed and secured with adhesive and then double-clamped. All part of the Unsinkable Legend.

Our respondents particularly lauded Boston Whaler’s design and construction, and its rock-solid value. Within those categories, they praised its brand reputation, customer service and resale value, and its construction and safety. That’s more than what people like about Boston Whaler — it’s what they feel about that familiar red logo.

Boston Whaler says its all-new 380 Outrage performs brilliantly as an offshore fishing platform, entertainment vessel or yacht tender — or all of the above.

Oh, but how it shines as that offshore fishing boat!

Angling amenities include a 60-gallon transom livewell with acrylic lid, dividable blue interior and dual red LED lighting; and a convertible leaning post (with second livewell unless you opt for the Summer Kitchen option’s refrigerator/freezer, sink, grill and more).

Seventeen rod holders are distributed at the bow, flanking the cockpit, and on the hardtop frame and transom. Under the gunwales are rod storage and downrigger weight holders.

In the cockpit is a new aft-facing couch with optional removable table. The helm features an electrical switch panel with illuminated text, surface space for dual 16-inch monitors and a fold-down standing platform for improved visibility. Key switching is remote, with push-button start/stop at the helm.

An acrylic transom door accesses the swim platform; a fiberglass portside boarding/diving door teams up with a removable stainless-steel dive ladder stored in a transom seat.

No matter the activity, it can be choreographed nicely with a Fusion Black Box stereo and remote controls at cabin, helm and bow, JL amplifiers and nine speakers, including a subwoofer.

More Info bostonwhaler.com