My review (video)

What I didn’t mention in the video

  • The Open 302 is built using a hybrid vacuum infusion process and features a very impressive 360-degree fiberglass stringer grid (instead of bonding to the hull bottom with “fingers”, it is fully bonded all the way around)
  • There is an awesome factory option for a Second Station/Half Tower. I can’t wait to experience the boat with it, knowing that Sportsman makes one of the best (if not the best) Half Tower setup on the market.
  • The comfortable running and cruising positions are possible because of how much time Sportsman devotes to ergonomic testing while simulating 3D models of the boat.
  • The ride is very balanced in terms of weight distribution (something that has to be experienced in person).
  • Again: the Twin 300 Yamahas are a great match and plenty of power for the 302.
  • I really appreciated the high freeboard (a battleship ready to tackle the waters, just in a much more streamlined package).
  • The five vertical rod holders in the console floor are a nice touch that I’m pleased to see carried over with Sportman’s new design language.
  • And maybe I had simply had too much fun for the day, but I really could have fallen asleep in that chaise lounge seat. With the 302 being as stable as it is, it would have made for a nice and peaceful day nap on the water.

Pricing

Even at the base starting price of $179,995, the new Sportsman Open 302 Center Console is a very well equipped boat with so many features as standard equipment.

That said, here’s how I’d option the boat, and how I anticipate many of them to be ordered:

  • Airmar B175M CHIRP Thru-Hull Transducer Upgrade: $1,055
  • Edson 13” SS Comfort Grip Steering Wheel w/ PowerKnob: $475
  • Fiberglass Leaning Post w/ Rear Facing Seating & Sink: $0
  • Garmin 8617 GPSMAP® Upgrade (Twin): $10,295
  • Garmin GXM™ 54 SiriusXM® Weather Antenna: $855
  • Garmin Reactor™ 40 Autopilot: $2,420
  • JL Audio Ultra-Premium M6 Upgrade: $4,170
  • On-Board Battery Charging System (4-Bank): $660
  • Optimus 360 Joystick: $9,625
  • Sun Shade w/ Poles - Front: $1,020
  • Sundeck / Table Cushion: $385
  • Taco Outriggers - GS280: $3,010

For a total just under $214,000. And if you are looking to stay closer to the $200k number, uncheck the 17” Garmin displays - as the 12” setup is a fantastic one. The rear facing seat at the leaning post is a wonderful option to have on this 30-footer, but if are more fishing focused I recommend going with the standard tackle station setup instead.

Note: these prices are not MSRP, these are Sportman’s Internet Prices which is what you can expect to purchase the boat for at any one of their dealerships (plus freight and prep). I wish every purchase was as easy (after buying 25+ vehicles, I really hate negociating from a silly number to a reasonable one… it’s the same reason Tesla’s purchase process is so appealing to many). It really takes the stress out of a purchase.

Availability

The first customers will be taking delivery of the 302 in the upcoming weeks (fall of 2020). As popular as the boat has been since making it’s debut, I believe the first few months of production are pre-sold to customers who jumped as soon as they saw the boat.

If you are interested in the Open 302, I highly encourage you to check with Sportsman Boats or your local dealer to see if the demo 302 is scheduled to make an appearance in your area.

Final thoughts

As I mentioned in the video, the 302 is a heartbreaker in the 30-foot segment. I believe we’ll see plenty of these on the water next spring, and plenty of other boat manufacturers getting busy taking notes.

More information

View more details on the brand new Open 302 Center Console at sportsmanboatsmfg.com and build your very own.

Disclaimer: When I review a product I end up enjoying, it doesn’t mean the products I’ve reviewed before are any less… there are a lot of great boats on the market. I say this because too many times it seems that feelings are hurt when I review something new. Years ago, a teacher taught me that an honest man has nothing to worry about, so I believe the best way to do these is to be honest and hope that any criticisms help inspire innovation and open up possible areas of improvement for discussion.