2016 Boston Whaler 210 Dauntless Boat Review

Boston Whaler has built a solid reputation for its well-crafted line of unsinkable boats. If you are looking for truly versatile boat, one of their Dauntlessmodels, ranging in size from 17 to 27 feet, will certainly meet your expectations. Sitting mid pack is this 210 Dauntless, geared for both family fun and serious fishing.

Whalers have a distinctly attractive look that makes them highly recognizable on the water. With a cockpit depth of 20 inches, the Dauntless is lower to the water than many competitors. This aside, the hull provides a dry, stable ride in all conditions, but the most extreme. 

As with all Whalers, quality and attention to detail is first-rate. All deck hardware is 316 L stainless steel and railings and the T-top structure are welded. 

Underway, the optional T-top was solid, as was the hull and deck structure. No flex, no sounds, no rattles. The Mercury Verado 200 Pro’s electro-hydraulic steering and Digital Throttle and Shift control (DTS) made driving this boat effortless.

The console layout is clean and has space set aside for flush mounting electronics. In this model, Mercury SmartCraft gauges were added alongside the switch panel to monitor theVerado 200. The console incorporates a livewell under the forward seat and the interior is reasonably roomy for accessing the head. Other options at the helm include electric trim tabs with indicators and a Fusion satellite radio system.

With a capacity of eight people, the Dauntless has a plenty of seating. The doublewide helm with folding backrest is comfortable standing or seated. Flipping up the aft casting deck reveals full beam transom seating, and with the optional bow cushions, two more can lounge forward.

Ready to fish, the 210 Dauntless has six stainless rod holders forward of the console, four more at the transom and four on the T-top. The optional helm seat adds a 25-gallon livewell, raw water washdown and knife and leader holder.

Inshore, offshore or cruising the lakes, the 210 Dauntless will serve you well.

Test Boat Engine

Mercury Verado 200 Pro, 2.6 L (158.7ci), 200 hp supercharged in-line six-cylinder four-stroke

ACCELERATION (mph/sec)

20 / 4.0; 30 / 6.8

TOP SPEED (rpm/mph)

5,800 / 45.1

CRUISING SPEED (rpm/mph)

4,000 / 28.6

SPECS

Model year: 2016

Make: Boston Whaler

Model: 210 Dauntless

Category: Center Console

Length: 21ft 3in / 6.48 m

Beam: 8ft 6in / 2.59 m

Draft:

Hull Type: Fiberglass

Engine Type: Outboard

Fuel Capacity: 75

According: Boattest.com