The popular Grady-White Sailfish 272 underwent several major changes and has been reborn as the Sailfish 282. Most visible are style changes, such as the lower profile, the leaner, more rounded cabin and the larger, more distinctive cabin side widow. The trademark Grady-White front windows disappeared on the 282, which instead has a Bomar hatch that provides more ventilation.
As you would expect on a boat primarily designed for fishing, the cabin is snug, though loaded with standard appointments. Abaft the V-berth is a galley with refrigerator, sink and butane stove. An enclosed head opposite includes a shower, MSD with macerator, and sink. An aft berth accommodates an additional guest.
The heart and soul of any Grady-White are at the helm and in the cockpit. Backlit helm switches ensure better viewing of the controls while running out to a favorite fishing hole before sunrise. Grady-White’s tough diamond-platted nonslip will keep your feet glued to a wet deck. The 59-square-foot cockpit includes a bait center with sink and pullout freshwater faucet. The aft bench seat hides a removable tray that accommodates as many as four flat tackle boxes, docklines or other gear. The starboard side 300-quart insulated fishbox is 53 inches long, and the portside raw-water live well holds 40 gallons, almost twice as much as that on the older 272 model.
Another new feature is a hardtop that includes overhead stowage, including space for electronics.
Grady-White, (252) 752-2111; fax (252) 830-8462; www.gradywhite.com.
