By: Scott Way
Boston Whaler teased a big release on social media for September 1st, and they didn't disappoint. Keeners who signed up in advance for the Facebook Live release were treated to the first look at the all-new 2021 240 Vantage with a video walkthrough alongside Boston Whaler President Nick Stickler and the development team.
Joining the Vantage lineup alongside the larger 280 and 320 models, the “(t)he 240 Vantage is incredibly versatile and customizable,” said Stickler.“We call it the ‘Swiss Army knife of boating. Just like our new 280 Vantage, the 240 is ideal for boaters who want to take advantage of everything the water has to offer.”
The Swiss Army knife moniker is apt: the 240 Vantage boasts a multitude of features that make it fully functional for fishing, cruising, beaching, watersports, and entertaining. There's no shortage of seating either, with a spacious bow lounge and foldaway aft seating as well. There's also portside lounge seating next to the helm which converts to multiple positions: facing forward, facing aft, or laid flat for ultimate recline.
Seating is just the beginning in terms of the 240's functionality. There is an optional fibreglass prep center in the cockpit that creates a platform for meal prep, snacks, drinks, or bait. There's also a standard enclosed head and sink, making longer outings easily possible in the 24-foot platform. Also available are a windlass and bow boarding ladder to help passengers enter or exit from the beach, and a freshwater shower with bow/stern sprayers.
Even with a host of family cruising amenities, Whaler also managed to create a capable fishing platform. A large insulated in-floor fishbox keeps catches fresh, and an optional livewell on the transom is available to keep bait readily accessible. Stainless steel rod holders are located throughout the boat, and an enclosed rod storage console accessed through the bow ensures you can switch from fishing to cruising with ease.
Design-wise, the 240 Vantage features Whaler’s proprietary foam-injected hull, which is engineered to deliver stability and a smooth ride in any conditions. Deep freeboard provides added security for passengers, and a sleek bow profile offers the recognizable Whaler shape and seaworthiness. There is also modern navigation and propulsion tech— V8 Mercury Verado engine options and available Raymarine electronics. A glass windshield and integrated hardtop or suntop option offers strong visibility and protection from sun, and an optional watersports tower with wakeboard racks are available for those looking to ride waves.
According to Whaler, the 240 Vantage was built as a "spacious dual console model perfect for active families eager to enjoy everything the water has to offer." As an added bonus to its functionality and appeal to multiple uses, the platform is low-maintenance and easy to operate, making it a considerable choice for novice and experienced boaters alike.
Here's a breakdown of key features & specs:
Family-friendly layout with optional cockpit prep center
Convertible portside lounge seating adjusts to multiple configurations
Redesigned bow available with both windlass and boarding ladder
Portside console includes head and sink for all-day comfort
Optional integrated hardtop provides additional weather protection
Intuitive helm station available with stylish new glass dash
Fishing features include convenient rod storage accessible via the bow, a centerline fishbox and an optional aft livewell
Available in classic Whaler colours including white (standard), dessert tan, glacier green, light blue, and light gray
Engine options: Mercury Verado V8 DTS in 250hp or 300 hp, Mercury Verado L6 in 350hp or 400hp
LOA- 24'2"
LOA w/platform- 25'6"
Beam- 8'6"
Draft- 18"
Weight (Loaded)- 5837 lbs
Person Capacity- 11
Max Horsepower- 400 hp
“We’re excited to offer this great new option for families seeking active ‘staycations,’” said Stickler. “The 240 Vantage provides a whole new view on what’s possible, putting family fun, watersports, sightseeing, fishing and priceless memories within reach.”
If you'd like to spec out your own 240 Vantage, try Whaler's virtual boat builder to mock up your next boat. To find new and used Boston Whaler boats nearest you visit BoatDealers.ca.
You can see the full video walkthrough with the development team below:
