Dusky 233EXF

Here's a look at the rugged Dusky 233 EXF. Dusky has long had a 23-foot center console in its lineup, but unveiled this model with front-entry walk-in console and other attractive options. Rigged as shown, the price is about $56,000. Dusky is a factory-direct, family-owned company based in Dania, Florida. The company prides itself on a lasting customer base, and builds boats individually per customers' specs.

This boat was equipped with a 300-horsepower Suzuki 4-stroke. We topped out at just shy of 50 mph with about two thirds of the boat's twin 60-gallon fuel capacity. Fuel burn at optimal cruising rpm on flat water was about 3 mpg—and easy to temper under different trim settings by viewing the Suzuki digital multi-function gauge.

Looking aft from the bow, a good view showing the full-size console.

This boat had a Lowrance combo chartplotter/fishfinder (right), as well as a kicking stereo system.

The Dusky Drive integrated bracket is immediately recognizable. Performance reports from the company's web site suggest that the single 300 4-stroke outperforms twin applications (a common finding in outboard boats). Twins are great from a security standpoint, but the reduced maintenance and improved economy of the big single are hard to argue with.

This boat had the Key West T-top with four vertical rodholders aft.

Four vertical rodholders on each side of the console.

Great thing about a walk-in console is, you can toss all sorts of bags in there and they magically disappear. Plenty of space for a marine head, if you like. The backboard with plexi portholes protects batteries and wiring from elements and human hands. Dusky can rig it for more immediate access to these components, if you prefer.

Three-piece construction (hull, deck, cap) leaves space for rodholders under the gunnel, keeping them out of the way yet easily retrieved.

That Key West T-top has cutouts forward to accommodate the vertical console rodholders.

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The deck drains directly overboard through large transom scuppers—no hoses, no clamps, no bilge runs to worry about. We had three guys in the back with a full load of fuel and a big cooler full of ice and bait—not to mention that 600-pound ‘Zuke. The deck stayed dry.

Leaning post livewell, 55 gallons with clear lid. Rule Tournament livewell pump (not shown) is easily accessed, along with bilge pumps, via aft deck hatch.

Portside aft box contains trim tab motor, fuel primer bulb and tank switches. Identical size box starboard was empty—perfect place to stow teasers or dock lines.

Forward benches each have overboard-draining fish boxes. Plenty of room for kids or catches, either way.