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A Discussion on Future Models

As we indicated in our introductory piece we are keen to SHARE information, which means we hope to create a dialogue with our readers, whether you are Southport owners, prospective owners, or happy with or thinking about one of our competitor brands. An informed public is best for us and the industry in general. So please, if you have comments, criticisms, questions, or just plain conversation, JOIN IN!

To this end, this week we’d like to open a forum on the direction of the center console: what will the models look like and/or include 3-5 years out. As we at Southport look at the market to determine what new products we should develop, we are conscious of several directions some CC brands have launched – models which are not traditionally what the Center Console style was originally conceived to deliver: plush walk around cabins; large cuddies that occupy up to 40% of the deck plan; spacious dual consoles that include large flat screen TV’s; and, of course the more traditional express.

The original Southport Boatworks built about two dozen express models (the 28EX) on what is now our 292 platform. When we occasionally meet an owner of a 28EX, we find them quite pleased with the boat, but agree the cabin is a bit cramped, the cockpit crowded and really too small for fishing, and yet it does offer a limited overnight experience.

Notwithstanding the partially successful compromise of the past, there appears to be a demand for some overnight accommodation on an excellent ride. The question for Southport is: should we follow other builders with the somewhat crammed spaces in a walk-around or cuddy deck plan, OR should we step a bit farther away from the fish experience for which Center Consoles were originally conceived and revisit the Express model – now on our larger 33 platform.

Your thoughts???? We would love to hear your comments!

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