Century Boats has carved a niche in the boating world, particularly among anglers and offshore enthusiasts who value a blend of rugged performance and practical design. With a history stretching back nearly a century, this American manufacturer has built a reputation for crafting vessels that cater to serious fishermen while offering enough versatility for family outings. But are Century Boats truly worth the investment? This in-depth exploration evaluates their larger models—specifically those in the 28- to 32-foot range—focusing on construction quality, ride performance, design features, and real-world owner experiences to determine whether they stand up to scrutiny.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Founded in 1926, Century Boats began as a wooden boat builder before transitioning to fiberglass in the 1960s, a move that positioned it as an early adopter of modern materials. Today, based in Florida, the company produces a range of boats from 20 to 32 feet, with a strong emphasis on center consoles (CC) designed for offshore fishing. Acquired by Yamaha, Century benefits from a synergy with one of the industry’s leading outboard motor manufacturers, ensuring that its boats are typically paired with reliable Yamaha engines. This legacy and partnership suggest a foundation of quality, but the real test lies in how these boats perform and hold up over time.
The focus here is on Century’s larger offerings, such as the 3200 Center Console and similar models in the 28- to 31-foot range. These boats are marketed as capable offshore platforms, blending fishability with enough comfort to appeal to a broader audience. To assess their merits, we’ll dive into their construction, ride quality, design strengths and weaknesses, and feedback from owners and testers.
Construction: Solid but Not Flawless
Century Boats prides itself on durable, timber-free construction, a selling point that resonates with buyers seeking longevity. The hulls are built using multiple layers of woven and stitched fiberglass fabrics with polyester resin, a solid glass bottom, and balsa-cored hull sides and decks. This approach offers a robust structure, with the solid bottom providing strength where it’s needed most—below the waterline. The use of pre-cut balsa core kits ensures a tight fit, reducing the risk of water channels forming if moisture penetrates, a detail praised by composites experts for enhancing durability.
The stringer system, a critical component of hull rigidity, is a one-piece fiberglass unit filled with foam to dampen sound, while foam-filled ribs reinforce the hull sides. The transom, once wood-cored in older models like the Century 3000, now uses urethane foam, a shift aimed at eliminating rot concerns. The hull-to-deck joint is secured with epoxy-coated screws, through-bolts, and a fast-curing 3M adhesive/sealant, suggesting a sturdy assembly.
However, there are notable drawbacks. Century’s reliance on polyester resin throughout the hull laminate—rather than the more blister-resistant vinylester resin—raises concerns, especially for a boat priced upwards of $120,000 (historical pricing for the 3200 CC). Vinylester offers superior durability and resistance to osmosis, a common issue in fiberglass boats exposed to prolonged water contact. Without it, Century offers no warranty against blistering, which could deter buyers in the premium market where competitors often include such protections.
Another point of contention is the fuel tank installation. The 300-gallon aluminum tank in the 3200 CC is encased in polyurethane foam and secured with brackets to the stringer system. While Century claims this method—coated with zinc oxide primer—has been problem-free since the mid-1990s, critics argue that foam traps moisture, potentially accelerating corrosion over time. A strap-based, breathable installation would allow for better inspection and maintenance, a feature some owners and reviewers wish Century would adopt. Accessing the tank requires cutting the cockpit sole along pre-scribed lines, an inconvenient process that underscores this design flaw.
Despite these issues, Century backs its boats with a 10-year transferable hull warranty, exceeding the industry standard of five years. This commitment signals confidence in the overall build, though it doesn’t fully offset concerns about specific construction choices.
Construction Highlights Table
| Feature | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hull Material | Solid fiberglass bottom, balsa-cored sides and deck | Strong, durable | Polyester resin, no vinylester |
| Stringer System | One-piece fiberglass, foam-filled | Sound dampening, rigid | None noted |
| Transom | Urethane foam core | Rot-free | Historical wood use in older models |
| Fuel Tank | 300-gal aluminum, foam-encased, zinc-coated | Secure, corrosion protection | Foam traps moisture, hard to inspect |
| Hull-to-Deck Joint | Epoxy screws, through-bolts, 3M adhesive | Robust connection | None noted |
| Warranty | 10-year transferable hull warranty | Above-average coverage | No blister protection |
Ride Quality: Built for Rough Water
Century designs its larger boats with offshore performance in mind, and the 3200 CC exemplifies this focus. The hull features a sharp 53-degree entry at the bow, tapering to a 23-degree deadrise at the stern, paired with a moderate length-to-beam ratio of about 3:1. This geometry aims to slice through waves efficiently while maintaining stability, avoiding the narrow, tippy feel of some high-performance hulls. Wide, flat chines (8 inches at the transom) and a single strake per side enhance lift and spray deflection, while “design lines” above the chines add aesthetic appeal and further block spray.
Sea trials of the 3200 CC in choppy, 4-foot waves off Miami demonstrated its capabilities. Powered by twin Yamaha F225 four-stroke outboards, the boat cruised comfortably at 25 knots in head seas, with some pounding and hatch rattling but no major discomfort. In following seas, it excelled, keeping the deck dry thanks to its high bow and flared forward sections. Top speed reached 39 knots, a respectable figure for a boat of this size, though not the fastest in its class. The ride felt solid and safe, even when pushed hard, a testament to its hull design.
Owners of similar models, like the 3200 WA, echo this sentiment. One reported it as “solid as a tank” in sloppy seas, though sensitive to trim tab adjustments for optimal performance. Another, running a 2600 CC with twin 200hp Yamahas, hit 45 knots and praised its smooth handling over wakes, with minimal noise or vibration. However, some older models (pre-2001) earned a reputation for a wetter, slappier ride due to shallower deadrise angles, a flaw Century addressed in later redesigns.
Critics note minor issues: a loose transom door latch on the 3200 CC test boat (later fixed by Century) and a steering system requiring nearly six turns lock-to-lock, which could slow response in tight situations. Bilge pump placement also frustrates some, as pumps are positioned aft of the centerline hatch, complicating access if a hose fails. Overall, though, the ride quality earns high marks for offshore capability, especially in post-2001 models.
Performance Data (Century 2600 CC with Twin Yamaha 200hp)
| RPM | Speed (Knots) | Fuel Burn (LPH) | Range (NM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 | 4.6 | 5.6 | 517 |
| 2000 | 7.5 | 18 | 262 |
| 3000 | 17 | 35 | 306 |
| 4000 | 29 | 54 | 338 |
| 5000 | 38 | 93 | 257 |
| 6000 | 44 | 143 | 193 |
Note: Based on 630L fuel with 10% reserve.
Design and Features: Fishing Meets Family
The Century 3200 CC and its peers are engineered as fishing-first platforms with thoughtful nods to leisure. The deck layout is expansive, with a 10-foot-6-inch beam providing ample room for multiple anglers. Key fishing features include a 62-gallon split livewell, dual 277-quart insulated fishboxes, rod holders along the hull sides, and a rocket launcher on the T-top. A transom station with a sink, cutting board, and washdowns enhances bait prep, while tackle storage is cleverly integrated into the helm seat and cockpit liner.
Beyond fishing, the design accommodates family use. The bow features U-shaped seating with thick cushions and a removable table, ideal for picnics or socializing. A spacious console houses a stand-up head with over 6 feet of headroom, an electric toilet, and a narrow berth—rare amenities in a center console that appeal to families or overnight anglers. The helm is a standout, with a high windshield offering excellent visibility, well-placed Yamaha gauges, and ample space for electronics. Handrails abound, enhancing safety, though some wish the bowrail extended farther aft for crew working near the console.
Storage is a highlight, with gasketed lockers under seats, in the cockpit sole, and within the console keeping gear dry and organized. Battery access is exemplary, with dual pairs housed in raised, watertight compartments. However, the dinette table’s locking mechanism failed during testing, and the hawsehole placement in the anchor locker could be improved for smoother rode feeding.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Century 3200 CC | Competitor Average (e.g., Contender, Boston Whaler) |
|---|---|---|
| Livewell Capacity | 62 gallons (split) | 50-70 gallons |
| Fishbox Capacity | 2 x 277 quarts | 200-300 quarts total |
| Fuel Capacity | 280-300 gallons | 250-350 gallons |
| Headroom in Console | 6’4” | 5’6”–6’0” |
| Warranty | 10 years (hull) | 5-10 years |
| Base Price | ~$277,889 | $250,000–$350,000 |
Owner Experiences: Mixed but Mostly Positive
Real-world feedback from Century owners reveals a spectrum of opinions. Many praise the boats’ durability and fishability. A 3200 WA owner called it a “testament to engineering and quality,” still performing like new after years of use. A 2901 CC owner lauded its reliability with twin 250hp Yamahas, while a 30 Express owner described it as “the most well-built boat we’ve ever had,” excelling in both shallow and offshore waters. Charter captain Matt Steffen, running a 2900 CC, dubbed it a “Cadillac” for its storage and client-friendly features.
However, not all reviews glow. Some owners of older models (e.g., a 1998 2180 Tunnel V) criticize a rough, noisy ride in waves over 2 feet, though this aligns with Century’s pre-2001 wetter reputation. Others find the boats overpriced for their mid-tier fit and finish, with one noting subpar hardware and bilge access on larger models. A common thread among critics is a desire for more power or a drier ride compared to competitors like Contender or Pursuit.
Forum discussions on platforms like TheHullTruth and 2CoolFishing reflect this duality. A 2000 3200 owner appreciated its stability and storage but planned to upgrade for faster cruise speeds. Another with a 2600 CC found it “solid as a rock” but wet in certain conditions, mitigated by a splash curtain. Overall, owners value Century’s seaworthiness and practicality, though some feel it lags behind top-tier brands in refinement or performance.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Evidence
Pros
- Robust Construction: Timber-free, solid fiberglass bottom, and a 10-year warranty signal longevity.
- Offshore Capability: Deep V hull and high bow deliver a dry, stable ride in rough water.
- Versatile Design: Fishing-focused with family-friendly features like a head and ample seating.
- Excellent Helm: Superior visibility and thoughtful layout enhance safety and usability.
- Storage Galore: Well-designed compartments keep the deck clean and gear accessible.
Cons
- Construction Concerns: No vinylester resin and a foam-encased fuel tank raise durability questions.
- Ride Variability: Older models can be wet and rough; newer ones still pound in head seas.
- Access Issues: Bilge pumps and fuel tank are hard to reach, complicating maintenance.
- Price Perception: Some find it costly for a mid-tier boat compared to premium competitors.
- Minor Flaws: Loose latches, suboptimal steering, and table issues detract from polish.
Verdict: Good, with Caveats
So, are Century Boats good or bad? The answer leans toward “good” for the right buyer. The larger models, like the 3200 CC, excel as offshore fishing platforms with a solid build and a ride that handles big water competently. Their versatility—blending hardcore angling with family amenities—sets them apart in a crowded market. Owners and testers consistently praise their durability, storage, and helm design, backed by a strong warranty.
However, they’re not flawless. The lack of vinylester resin and the questionable fuel tank setup are legitimate drawbacks, particularly at a premium price point. While newer models have improved ride quality, they don’t match the refinement or speed of top-tier brands like Contender or Boston Whaler. For buyers prioritizing absolute luxury or cutting-edge performance, Century may fall short.
For anglers seeking a reliable, no-nonsense boat that can double as a family cruiser, Century’s larger models offer compelling value—especially with Yamaha power and a decade-long warranty. If you’re considering one, inspect the specifics: opt for a post-2001 hull, verify maintenance history, and weigh the cost against competitors. Century Boats aren’t perfect, but they’re far from bad—they’re a solid choice for those who value function over flash.
Good For:
- Anglers who want a durable mid-priced offshore boat.
- Families needing a versatile fishing/cruising boat.
- Buyers who prioritize a 10-year warranty.
Not Ideal For:
- Those wanting a high-speed, ultra-dry ride.
- Buyers concerned about long-term blistering risks.
- Anglers who prioritize easy maintenance access.
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