Grady-White’s Coastal Explorer series is so popular, it recently expanded with a 231CE to fill in behind the larger 251 and 281. The 231, though shorter, shows little sacrifice in luxury and fishability. It is fully featured and easily trailerable.
Grady-White utilized the console, lean bar and more from the 251, offering plenty of space for navigation electronics and seating—all protected by a large hardtop that is outrigger-ready.
Fishermen are further equipped with a 25-gallon livewell and an aft casting deck with built-in jump seats and cushioned backs. These swivel, offering access to the boarding platform, which is equipped with a boarding ladder. The design of the transom further accommodates two Power-Poles or Raptor shallow-water anchors.
Rod storage is ample, with four rocket launchers in the lean bar, four more in the hardtop, plus two more optional rod hangers under each gunwale to keep tackle handy and safe. Raw- and freshwater spigots are conveniently located to wash the deck, tackle or sandy feet.
There is a roomy, inviting changing room below the console with a standard portable head. On the front of the console is a long jump seat big enough to stretch out. There’s a step to the casting deck sized generously for two or more anglers, but it can convert quickly to an enormous sunning lounge for two or three. Electrically operated seatbacks at the bow fold down to provide casting-deck space.
Yamaha’s 250 hp outboard, with integrated power steering, makes this a great handling package with a top speed of just under 50 mph. Its maneuverability at speed is enhanced by Yamaha’s power steering. At rest or at trolling speeds, its stability makes it an excellent casting platform that provides secure footing to battle fish. It settles gently under the shifting weight of the crew, making accurate casts to mangroves or dock pilings easy.
The 231 Coastal Explorer is ideal for coastal exploring and presents owners with features and fun not always available in a compact bay boat.
High Points
- Transom is designed to accept two Power-Poles.
- Transom seatbacks swing inward or forward for transom access.
- Bow seating with electrically adjustable backrests.
How We Tested
- Engine: Yamaha 250 four-stroke
- Drive/Prop: SWSII SDS 15.5″ x 17″ 3-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 1.75:1 Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $137,210 (base with test power) |
| LOA: | 22’7″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft: | 1’4″ |
| Dry Weight: | 3,720 lb. (dry without power) |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 10/1,650 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 70 gal. |
| Max Horsepower: | 300 |
| Available Power: | Single outboard from Yamaha |
Grady-White Boats – Greenville, North Carolina; 252-752-2111; gradywhite.com
