Boston Whaler 420 Outrage Review (2019 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

The Boston Whaler Outrage 420 is the largest model in the range and uses its footprint well with a highly practical and flexible deck layout. At the stern, a dive door improves boarding access, particularly useful when moored alongside. The aft cockpit includes foldaway seating on both sides, giving the option of a completely clear deck space for fishing or other activities.

A wet bar runs along the transom area. On this particular boat, it features twin fridges, a sink beneath a hinged cover, and an area that can be configured for storage or an ice maker. On the opposite side, there’s a barbecue station with extra compartments for storing knives, paper towels, and other essentials.

Moving forward under the hardtop, the helm area sits beneath a fixed roof with a retractable aft screen. There are three helm seats with sit-stand bolsters and the option to swivel them round to create a more sociable space when at anchor. The backrest behind the helm can lift to reveal a second row of seating, meaning up to six people can sit facing forward while underway, sheltered and within easy conversation range.

Access to the bow is easy thanks to deep, secure walkaround side decks. At the bow, the dinette area features a flexible seating layout with an electrically-adjustable sunpad. The table can be dropped or lifted depending on use, and there are fold-up forward-facing backrests for extra seating. Built-in cup holders and armrests add comfort, and there’s an ice box hidden under the forward seat. Additional storage for lines and fenders is built into the bulwarks, with large compartments to either side.

While the Outrage 420 is designed first and foremost as a day boat, it includes a surprisingly capable lower cabin that turns it into a genuine weekender. The interior makes the most of the space available, with generous headroom for anyone around 6ft tall, large hull windows for natural light, and subtle concealed lighting throughout.

The central seating area converts into a double berth by lowering the table and removing the forward backrest, with enough room for two adults. At the bow, an additional sleeping area can be set up using the pull-out section beneath the forward seating - a setup better suited to children or occasional guests. Altogether, the space sleeps four in a compact but comfortable layout that suits family cruising.

Though not a traditional cabin layout with separate staterooms, the arrangement is practical and flexible. With air conditioning, proper lighting, and decent privacy below deck, it covers the basics well for short coastal trips or overnight stays.

The boat is powered by four Mercury 350hp Verado outboards, delivering a top speed in the mid-40s. It cruises comfortably at around 30 knots, with a range of approximately 360 nautical miles at that speed. The helm station is equipped with an all-glass cockpit featuring Raymarine multifunction displays. This setup includes radar, chartplotter, and onboard systems readouts. Joystick controls simplify docking and low-speed manoeuvring, making the boat responsive and easy to handle despite its size.

The Boston Whaler Outrage 420 is a serious day boat with genuine overnight capability. It mixes open-deck practicality with clever multi-use design, from the folding seating and configurable bow to the convertible interior sleeping arrangements. Performance is strong, with quad outboards delivering speed, range, and control through joystick steering. The finish is high-end throughout, and while not inexpensive, the build quality and functionality justify the price.

The 420 is built with a foam-filled hull that’s engineered for buoyancy and structural strength, making her unsinkable even when swamped. “Unsinkable” may be a bold claim, but it’s one Boston Whaler has built its name on. In the 1960s, they famously sawed one of their boats in half and both sections stayed afloat - a test they’ve repeated many times since. That legacy of toughness still underpins models like the 420 today.