Hustler 288 CC 2026

Hustler Powerboats, established in 1979 in Calverton, New York, has earned a stellar reputation for creating high-performance boats that seamlessly integrate speed, stability, and luxury. Renowned for producing some of the fastest V-bottom boats globally, Hustler boasts a legacy of innovation, highlighted by the 32 Hustler, which reached an impressive 106 mph in 1986 and received multiple accolades, including Powerboat Magazine’s Product Excellence award. The Hustler 288 Center Console (288 CC) exemplifies this rich heritage, merging the brand’s performance pedigree with the versatility of a center console design. Ideal for recreational boating, fishing, and offshore excursions, the 288 CC is a 28-foot powerhouse that promises exhilarating performance, thoughtful features, and robust construction. Design and Construction: Measuring 28 feet with an 8-foot 6-inch beam, the Hustler 288 CC strikes the perfect balance between agility and spaciousness. Its deep-V hull, a hallmark of Hustler’s performance legacy, is engineered to navigate through rough waters while ensuring stability at high speeds. The center console layout optimizes deck space, offering plenty of room for fishing, socializing, or water sports. The console features an ergonomic design, complete with a wraparound windshield and a tiered dashboard accommodating dual 12-inch multifunction displays and Livorsi gauges for accurate engine monitoring. An optional hardtop, equipped with rocket launchers and LED lighting, enhances functionality for anglers while providing shade for comfort. The helm is outfitted with bolstered seats featuring Anti Shock III upholstery, ensuring both luxury and support. Hustler’s meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the 288 CC, from the detailed templates used in manufacturing to the high-quality finishing sandpapers employed. Performance and Power: The Hustler 288 CC is engineered for thrilling performance, drawing from Hustler’s expertise in high-speed hull design. It comes standard with twin Mercury Racing Verado 200 outboards, generating a total of 400 horsepower. For those seeking additional power, options include twin 300-hp Mercury Verado or 400R engines, elevating the boat’s top speed to approximately 60-65 mph, depending on conditions and load. This outboard configuration, inspired by the rising popularity of outboards in Hustler’s models like the 39 Shotgun, maximizes cockpit space, simplifies maintenance, and ensures excellent maneuverability. With a 150-gallon fuel capacity, the boat supports extended offshore trips, providing a cruising range of around 200-250 miles at 30-35 mph. The 288 CC glides smoothly at high speeds, offering responsive handling through hydraulic steering and trim tabs. In choppy waters, the hull’s multiple steps and deep-V design deliver a dry, comfortable ride, making it perfect for offshore fishing or poker runs. Weighing in at approximately 6,500 pounds dry, the boat’s lightweight construction enhances its agile performance and fuel efficiency, achieving optimal fuel economy at cruising speeds of 30-40 mph. Features and Amenities: The Hustler 288 CC is as adaptable as it is fast, featuring a variety of amenities tailored for fishing, cruising, and entertaining. Its spacious cockpit accommodates 8-10 passengers, with a rear bench seat that folds away to create more deck space for fishing. Forward seating includes a bow lounge with cushioned benches and integrated storage, ideal for relaxation or social gatherings. For fishing enthusiasts, the 288 CC comes equipped with a 30-gallon livewell, multiple rod holders, and under-gunwale rod storage. The hardtop’s rocket launchers and optional outriggers boost its fishing capabilities, while a transom fishbox keeps your catches fresh. The boat’s shallow draft and precise handling make it adept at inshore navigation for species like redfish or tarpon, while its offshore performance excels for pursuits like tuna or mahi-mahi fishing. Built-in steps in the console facilitate easy access to the bow for line handling and anchoring. A small cabin within the console includes a portable toilet for added convenience. The electronics package for the 288 CC is customizable, with options for Simrad or Garmin multifunction displays, radar, and a premium JL Audio sound system with a Fusion head unit. LED lighting throughout, including underwater illumination, enhances nighttime usability and aesthetics. Safety features such as grab handles, non-skid decking, and a high-capacity bilge pump ensure peace of mind in challenging conditions. Comfort and Customization: Hustler’s commitment to operator comfort is clear in the 288 CC’s seating and layout. The helm’s bolster seats provide ergonomic support during high-speed runs, while the rear bench and bow lounge offer plush seating for passengers. The Anti Shock III upholstery is UV-resistant and easy to maintain, ensuring lasting appearance. The open cockpit design encourages airflow, while the optional hardtop provides shade without obstructing visibility. Customization is a hallmark of Hustler’s brand, and the 288 CC offers a wide range of options to meet individual preferences. Buyers can select from various gelcoat colors, upholstery patterns, and engine configurations. Performance upgrades, such as five-blade Mercury Racing cleaver props, cater to speed enthusiasts, while fishing packages with extra rod holders and livewells appeal to anglers. Market Position and Appeal: Priced between $150,000 and $250,000 depending on options, the Hustler 288 CC competes with models like the Sailfish 270 CC, Boston Whaler 280 Outrage, and Grady-White Freedom 285. Its performance-oriented hull and high-speed capabilities distinguish it from competitors that primarily focus on fishing or cruising. The 288 CC attracts buyers seeking a versatile center console that excels in poker runs, offshore fishing, or family outings. Its compact size enhances its trailerability, appealing to owners without dock space. Hustler’s esteemed reputation for quality and performance, underscored by its history of championships and innovations, heightens the allure of the 288 CC. The brand’s limited production runs ensure exclusivity, while its focus on customization allows buyers to create a vessel tailored to their specifications. The 288 CC’s blend of speed, stability, and comfort makes it an attractive choice for coastal boaters, anglers, and performance aficionados alike. Conclusion: The Hustler 288 CC is a remarkable fusion of performance, versatility, and craftsmanship, epitomizing Hustler Powerboats’ legacy of pushing boundaries in the high-performance boating arena. Its stepped deep-V hull offers exhilarating speed and precise handling, complemented by a spacious cockpit, fishing amenities, and luxurious touches that cater to a wide array of boating activities. Whether pursuing trophy fish, cruising with family, or participating in a poker run, the 288 CC ensures a thrilling and comfortable experience. With its solid construction, customizable options, and meticulous attention to detail, the Hustler 288 CC stands as a testament to Hustler’s dedication to building the fastest, toughest, and most refined V-bottoms in the world. For those in search of a center console that merges exhilarating performance with everyday practicality, the 288 CC is an outstanding choice.

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