What does it mean to be Dauntless?
To put it simply, the Dauntless does a lot of things really well.
Behind the scenes, it’s a brilliant multi-tasker, refusing to settle for one shining feature. Instead, it’s a boat of many talents. Featuring incredible comfort, ease, and capability, Dauntless cannot be tied to a single identity.
On the water, Dauntless is a highly versatile boat. It can seamlessly serve as a family day boat, watersports platform, or hardcore fishing vessel, or all of the above. No need to settle for just one – Dauntless can transform into whatever your next adventure holds.
On the surface, she’s a looker, too. Dauntless represents Boston Whaler’s contemporary side, appealing to those who want to go a little more modern, and a little more daring. Want the legendary experience of a Boston Whaler, but more contemporary lines? You’ve met your match.
With carefully thought-out sheer lines, bow shapes and that unique “Whaler smirk”, promising to keep the bow dry in choppy conditions, the Dauntless performs with undeniable style.
How did we get here?
Dauntless stood out from the start. In its early days, it was the first successful product family of smaller Boston Whalers that did not follow the traditional look. With a modern edge, it was sought after by younger families.
In the early to mid-nineties, “Bay Boats” became all the craze. This new subcategory of center consoles was widely popular due to their shallow freeboards, modified deep vee bottoms and various other fishing and water sport features.
Witnessing this trend, Boston Whaler knew building a smaller boat that diverged from the traditional style was risky. But, Boston Whaler has never been afraid of a little challenge. And who better to take a leap of faith with than the Dauntless?
Initially, a 13’ and 15’ model was introduced, soon to be replaced by a 14’ and 16’ Dauntless. Coming out strong with outstanding ergonomics and eye-catching style, the product was an immediate success. Later in the year 2000, the 18’ and 22’ Dauntless were born.
Over the years, the boats evolved in both style and performance. The bottom designs grew softer, drier, and always quick to the plane. We learned a smaller engine did not necessarily mean settling for less. Quite the contrary, as the Dauntless proved its capability time and time again. The seating onboard adapted to become more comfortable and convertible. The first folded aft seat became an ideal casting platform for anglers and has been an iconic feature since.
The 230 Dauntless brought along a great new feature – flip-up bow seats, now included on numerous Dauntless models. The neat, clean appearance, combined with the beautifully finished, rugged fiberglass demonstrates Whaler’s commitment to both comfort and quality.
Next, came the largest Dauntless to date, as well as the first to offer twin outboard power. The 270 Dauntless came to impress with a patented swim patio and forward sun lounge/garage. The single 350HP Mercury engine got the job done for most families. Those looking for extra speed could upgrade to twin 300HP Mercury Verados to reach speeds over 50 mph.
“One of my favorite aspects about Dauntless owners is their commitment to just being on the water with their family. If the Dauntless is in Florida, a wide variety of activities will include wakeboarding, and tarpon or snook fishing. If it is in Chesapeake Bay, then striper fishing and making a restaurant run to Annapolis are all possibilities, while the lakes all across our country provide an exciting home for the Dauntless,” says Jeff Vaughn, former Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Customer Service at Boston Whaler.
What’s next for the Dauntless?
Today, the Dauntless boat family stands proudly with the 220, 250 and 280 models. Each new design continues to raise the bar, improving the ride performance, layouts, and amenities.
The redesigned 220 and 250 were released in December 2020. Then, most recently, the 280 Dauntless launched on August 8, 2022, replacing the 270 Dauntless, and completing the evolution of the Dauntless family. Redesigned from the keel up, it’s the model for boaters seeking their next thrilling adventure. It has everything to go farther, get more out of your on-the-water experience, and approach the water fearlessly.
The ideal bay boat, where incredible inshore performance meets limitless offshore confidence. Leisurely cruise close to home, or venture way out for a big catch, with Dauntless you don’t have to choose.
The 280 Dauntless is the ideal platform for all your boating wants and needs – fishing, watersports, cruising, beaching, hosting friends and family – and just about everything in between.
The 280 Dauntless is Boston Whaler’s exciting next chapter. And come this August, it could be yours, too.
We invite you to watch the 280 Dauntless premiere here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PHbO1g1ZpU
Or build yours here: https://www.bostonwhaler.com/boat-models/dauntless/280-dauntless.html
