Daring to be different in a crowded market.
by Craig Ritchie
Center consoles continue to grow in popularity as more and more boaters discover the incredible versatility of the design.
Tidewater’s 252 LXF has all the fishing features that anyone would need for catching offshore salmon and walleye on the Great Lakes; it also comes with suitable accommodations that make it a first-class dayboat for family fun.
As you approach the boat dockside, Tidewater’s unique and unmistakable wraparound bow seating truly stands out. Bow seating can be limited on most center consoles, but Tidewater designed this area with comfortable forward-facing seating to provide space for all your guests. A starboard-side lounger with a cooler seat mounted in front of the console creates a unique, spacious area for quiet conversation. It’s a simple, attractive and useful configuration that adds real value to the boat.
The massive seating spaces in the bow provide an equally large amount of dry storage space beneath. Lifting the seat cushions provides access to several large gasketed bins, some with drainage that can double as fish boxes. A through-bow anchor windlass and integrated LED navigation lights on the rub rail round out the 252 LXF bow features.
The console is wide and modern, with plenty of space at the helm for large in-dash displays. A compartment accessed through the port side of the console can be used for storage, as a changing room, or as a day head with the optional upgrade to a porta-potti or full pump-out head. Most buyers will likely spring for the optional fiberglass T-top with its integrated electronics box to enjoy protection from the midday sun. The doublewide helm seat has independently operating bolsters.
“With its aggressive offshore hull and large bow flare to keep you dry, the Tidewater 252 LXF is very popular on the Great Lakes,” says Matt Loew at Holland, Michigan-based Anchorage Yacht Sales. “With its full wraparound bow seating and a full width bench seat aft, it can accommodate the whole family in comfort.”
A pass-through to the swim platform is located on the port side of the aft bench seat. The platform features a polished stainless steel, three-step ladder and a raw water washdown for convenience.
Maximum power for the 252 LXF is 400-hp, which propels it to a top speed of more than 50 mph.
DEALERS
Specifications
- LOA: 24’8″
- Beam: 9’3″
- Draft: 16″
- Weight: 4,150 lbs.
- Fuel Capacity: 126 gals.
- Water Capacity:
- Power: 400 hp
- Price: Contact dealer
- Website: tidewaterboats.com
Photo Courtesy of Tidewater
Photo Courtesy of Tidewater
Photo Courtesy of Tidewater
