Sailfish Boats has long been recognized for blending innovation, performance, and family-friendly design. In this exclusive Behind the Build interview, Sailfish Boats CEO and President Rob Parmentier offers insight into the development of the all-new Sailfish 252 Center Console. From design inspiration to standout features and ride quality, Rob shares how the 252 CC was built to meet the needs of both anglers and families alike—while staying true to the Sailfish legacy.
What was the vision behind the 252 Center Console?
Our goal was to build on the success of the new 232 Center Console, which was recently named Boating Magazine’s 2024 Boat of the Year in the small fish category. We took key features like dual aft boarding access, twin livewells, ample seating, a tall front glass windshield and forward head access. We also added a second deck configuration with a port-side entry door to give boaters more versatility.
How does the 252 fit into the broader Sailfish lineup?
The 252 CC replaces two of our most popular models—the 241 CC and the 242 CC. It’s a natural step up for someone moving on from a smaller center console or flats boat and looking to get into bigger water. We’ve seen more boaters transitioning away from runabouts and embracing center consoles, which are becoming the new family “runabouts.” The 252 offers the perfect balance for both fishing and family outings. It complements our lineup of center consoles—23, 25, 27, 31, and 36 feet—as well as our popular dual consoles in 23, 24, 27, and 31 feet.
What design elements set the 252 apart?
First and foremost: the hull. Every Sailfish features a Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull, and the 252 is no exception. It’s essentially three hulls in one: 24 degrees of deadrise to cut through chop, 23 degrees for lift and fuel efficiency, and 21 degrees for stability at rest. That hull design is at the core of our performance.
Then there’s construction. We use high-end materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber, and Prisma beams (like joists in your home) beneath the deck for strength and rigidity. Freeboard depth is another standout—cockpit bolsters hit at the thighs, not below the knees, so you’re in the boat, not on top of it. It’s safer and more comfortable, especially for kids and pets.
Other key features include a large dash with space for twin 16-inch MFDs, two deck configuration options, and an 8’9” beam that feels even beamier thanks to widened chines that support the VDS hull. We also offer single or twin engine configurations, with power options from Mercury, Yamaha, or Suzuki, up to 400 horsepower.
Bonus: Learn more about Sailfish’s Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) hull system.
What are five standout features onboard?
- Ergonomic Dash – Everything is in your line of sight for safe and easy navigation.
- Insulated Storage – Every compartment is insulated and there’s plenty of storage throughout.
- Deck Options – Choose between a standard dual aft access layout with livewells under the seating or an optional layout with a port-side entry door and aft fold-down seat.
- Spacious Head – Gullwing-style door and nearly 6 feet of headroom make it easy to access—no more crouching in a center console head.
- Stainless Anchor System – Standard thru-hull anchor with windlass provides secure and convenient anchoring.
How did customer feedback shape the design?
Customer and dealer feedback is central to everything we do. We gather input from boat show conversations, on-dock use observations, post-sale satisfaction surveys, and warranty records. For the 252 CC, we also surveyed dealers to understand what they felt the market needed. But it doesn’t stop at launch—we constantly update and improve our boats based on real-world feedback from owners, dealers, and even prospective buyers.
Sailfish 252 Center Console Specs:
LOA Hull Only: 25’
Length Rigged: 26’ 5”</strong
Beam: 8’ 10”
Fuel Capacity: 157 GAL
Max Horsepower: 400 HP
Approx. Rigged Weight: 5,800 LBS
What can you tell us about the hull design and ride quality?
The variable degree stepped hull is a hallmark of Sailfish and provides an all-in-one solution: sharp angles for slicing through waves and flatter sections for comfort and stability at rest. Our hulls are a little different to drive—you’ll find that Sailfish boats prefer a bit more positive engine trim than other brands, and they require minimal use of trim tabs thanks to the hull’s natural balance.
What new technology is featured on the 252?
The 252 CC is our first model to feature the Seakeeper Ride system, and early success means we’ll be rolling it out on other models soon. We’ve also added a new Egis battery management system, which offers a compact panel with digital voltage readouts, toggle control between batteries, and a stern-mounted switch so you don’t have to reboard just to turn off your batteries.
Who is the ideal 252 Center Console owner?
It’s perfect for someone who wants offshore capability but will spend more time close to home. Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller fishing boat, transitioning from a runabout, or buying your first boat, the 252 offers versatility and confidence.
Why is it a great choice for both serious anglers and families?
It truly delivers the best of both worlds. For anglers, it has 20 rod holders, a 25-gallon livewell, large in-floor fish boxes, and insulated bow storage. A 157-gallon fuel tank and dash space for twin 16” MFDs make it ready for serious fishing.
For families, you get plush seating, a standard freshwater shower, a 56-quart cooler on a slide, and built-in bow backrests that recess into the bolsters. And no matter your destination, the VDS hull delivers a soft, dry ride.
What will customers notice when they first step aboard?
They’ll be surprised by how big this 25-foot boat feels. Then they’ll start to see the quality—in the materials, the ride, the construction, and the dealer experience. The reaction we get is often, “I’m getting more boat for the money than anything else on the market.”
Sailfish and the 252 are all about being fishing focused and as family friendly. Interested in getting more boat for the money? The all-new Sailfish 252 Center Console starts at $157,297 with a single Suzuki 300HP motor. Visit the Sailfish Boats website to find your local dealer, check out the full specs, and to build your own 252 center console.
