Heads Up! Grady-White Introduces 20-Foot Fisherman 209 With Head Area and Deck-Level Bow Access
Greenville, NC (September 1, 2010) – Not many 20-foot boats, much less 20-foot center consoles, feature the all-day comfort of an enclosed head area, but the new Grady-White Fisherman 209 is an exception. That is not the only thing in this chocked-with-customer-inspired-features boat that’s exceptional; this great family-and-fishing Grady-White doesn’t miss an opportunity, big or small, to add features and function for a fun day on the water. Highlights include a cockpit that is every bit as big as most 25-footers, a clever removable cooler that doubles as forward seating, access to the bow all at deck level, and a handsome, well-engineered optional T-top integrated into the console structure. Little things make a difference, too, like a recessed spot on top of the console to store your sunglasses when you dive over for a swim.
“Our focus in re-engineering this center console was first and foremost to add a useful-sized head area,” says Joey Weller, vice president of sales and marketing for Grady-White. “But that was far from all. Grady-White builds a complete line of ten different center console models from 18 to 36 feet in length and we wanted to integrate some of our bigger center console features into this good-looking 20-footer including the optional T-top. Plus, we've made it ready for the new generation of highly efficient Yamaha engines coming to market. We think that a lot of things come together in the Fisherman 209 to create a terrific choice in a smaller Grady-White center console for young families.”
“The new Fisherman 209 is designed, of course, to be powered by a single Yamaha four stroke engine and the super-efficient new generation 200 or 250 HP engine is a great match for this boat,” continues Weller. “Combine this efficient power with Grady-White’s exclusive SeaV²® hull, and you really have a wonderful, safe and solid ride at almost any speed and condition.”
“We looked to our new 23-foot Fisherman 230 when we worked on creating the head area on the Fisherman 209,” says David Neese, Grady-White’s vice president of engineering. “For a 20-foot boat, the head area is surprisingly roomy. This enclosed console features a dome light, handhold, a mirror on the door, and good storage space. Equip it with an optional portable head and you’re ready to go on all-day outings with the family.”
The bow area also features two 88-quart insulated fish boxes (port and starboard) that double as seating. “We’ve found that our center console customers, especially, really like to have access forward at one level all the way to the bow, which really helps out the fishermen or families when anchoring,” continues Neese. An optional insert changes the whole bow to a roomy casting platform. Plus Grady-White’s well-engineered anchor locker makes dropping the hook an easy task. Just forward of the console, Grady-White has introduced another idea to enhance the use of space: a removable cooler with a cushioned top that doubles as roomy bench seating for two. “When you come home, just remove the cooler, take it home and you’re ready to pack it to go out on the water the next day,” says Neese. “Couldn’t be easier!”
The helm area has a big facelift from earlier versions of 20-foot center consoles to further enhance function. Pedestal seats are standard, but many will opt for the deluxe helm lean bar with its comfortable backrest, flip up bolster, cushioned seating and foot rests plus rod and tackle storage. The console design borrows from its bigger sisters in the Grady-White line. The easy-to-view flush mount electronics area has room for almost any electronics wish list, and the acrylic windshield provides excellent visibility and protection. Many customers will also opt for the T-top complete with radio box, dome light, storage net, spreader light and four rod holders. The brushed aluminum support on the T-top struts is sturdily integrated into the console for a clean, good-looking design.
Aft, the Fisherman 209 has a fold down motorwell dam, allowing quick access to the stern. There are two comfortable aft seats with cushioned backs on either side of the motorwell, so like every Grady-White the 209 has plenty of comfortable seating aboard.
“With the trademark SeaV² ride, the detail, the terrific use of space and solid innovations plus Grady-White’s hallmark safety features, incredible structure and superior stainless hardware,” Neese continues, “the Fisherman 209 is a winning inshore sportfishing boat that’s great for family days at the coast.”
Grady-White was founded in 1959 and builds 25 boat models from 18 to 36 feet at its plant in Greenville, NC. The company has been under private ownership by National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame member Eddie Smith since 1968. Grady-White Boats has been recognized for top-ranking excellence in customer satisfaction in every third-party study ever done in the marine industry including the ninth consecutive National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) CSI Award for excellence in customer satisfaction awarded in August 2010.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Gwen Edwards, Grady-White Boats
P. O. Box 1527, Greenville, NC 27835
TEL 252-752-2111 Fax 252-830-8462
e-mail: gedwards@gradywhite.com
web address: www.gradywhite.com
