The Boston Whaler 170 Montauk is a highly versatile 5-meter center-cockpit boat, capable of a wide range of uses. Simple and efficient, this motorboat has everything going for it.
The Boston Whaler 170 Montauk is a 17-foot (5.28m) center console boat designed for fishing, watersports, and family outings. I knew an owner who compared it to the famous Renault 4L. Manufactured by the Brunswick Group and produced in Edgewater, Florida, it carries on the historic tradition of Montauk models, relaunched in 2018 with a modernized version that is more spacious, more stable, and has a better engine.
History of the Boston Whaler 170 Montauk
The Montauk name is iconic at Boston Whaler. An early version of the 17-footer existed as early as the 1980s.In 2018, the brand relaunched this model, giving it a serious makeover: longer, wider, and heavier.It retains the robust and marine DNA of its predecessors while incorporating the current expectations of boaters.
The original design was inspired by the work of C. Raymond Hunt, naval architect renowned. The construction is based on the exclusive Unibond™ process which consists of injecting closed cell foam between two laminated hulls, guaranteeing positive buoyancy even in the event of a leak.
The number of units produced is not disclosed, but this model is enjoying considerable success, particularly in North America. It directly competes with other compact center consoles such as the Grady-White 180 Fisherman, Sea Hunt 17 Gamefish, and Key West 1720.
Interior design
The 170 Montauk is a motorboat which offers a very open and functional layout, designed for simple use and without complex maintenance.
- Center console : access via a lockable door, with storage space, 12V socket, double cup holders and space for navigation screen up to 9 inches.
- Pilot bench : configurable as a front or rear seat, with a four-position reclining backrest.
- Front platform : convertible into a seat with a large storage compartment or integrated livewell, complemented by an anchor compartment.
- Rear area : spacious open cockpit, storage under the floor, rod holders, swim platform with stainless steel ladder.
The whole thing is designed to be sleek, easy to clean with plenty of water, and equipped with marine-grade stainless steel.
Marine qualities
The Boston Whaler 170 Montauk displays excellent performance for a boat of this size.e. With a Mercury 90hp (standard engine), the top speed exceeds 60km/h, and reaches nearly 72km/h with a 115hp.
The boat goes into gliding mode in less than 4 secondsAt cruising speed (3500rpm), it reaches approximately 35km/h with a consumption of 12 litres/hour, thus offering a range of approximately 250km with the standard 95-litre tank.
Its moderate V-shaped hull, with a more pinched bow and increased width, allows for smoother handling in choppy water.It turns flat, remains stable when stopped and proves safe even in rough seas.
Owner reviews
User feedback is generally very positive, particularly regarding the robustness of the construction, ease of maintenance and stability while sailing.
Some highlight the boat’s ability to “smooth out the chop” despite its small size. One owner notes that he uses it alone, even at low tide, thanks to its easy launching. Another appreciates the quietness and responsiveness of the Mercury engine.
However, some limitations are noted: spartan comfort in rough seas, lack of protection from spray, and limited storage capacity for longer trips. Recent buyers also believe that the resale value is good, even though the boat loses about 20% of its value in the first year.
Boston Whaler 170 Montauk Technical Specifications
| Characteristic | Data |
|---|---|
| Overall length (LOA) | 5.28m (17′ 4″) |
| Width (beam) | 2.21m (7′ 3″) |
| Draft | 0.30m (12″) |
| Dry weight | 771kg (1700lb) |
| Standard Loaded Weight | 1022kg (2254lb) |
| Load capacity | 862kg (1900lb) |
| Positive buoyancy | Up to 1270kg (2800lb) |
| Number of passengers | 7 people |
| Fuel tank | 95L (25gal) |
| Vivier (option) | 45L (12gal) |
| Motorization min. | 90hp (67kW) |
| Max. motorization | 115hp (86kW) |
| Hull angle | 16° at the stern |
| Transom | 63cm (25″) |
| Transport height | 1.49m (without bimini) / 2.10m (with) |
| Hull structure guarantee | 10 years |
| Equipment warranty | 3 years |
The Boston Whaler 170 Montauk is a compact, robust, and highly seaworthy boat. It impresses with its versatility, ease of use, and build quality. Ideal for inshore fishermen, novice boaters, or families looking for a reliable boat for short trips. Its reputation for being unsinkable, its predictable handling at sea, and its easy resale value make it a safe choice in the compact powerboat market.