Pursuit S 288 Review: The 30-Footer That Runs Like a 40

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The S 288 is one of the better-executed 30-foot center consoles I’ve seen in the past five years. Pursuit didn’t cut corners on the build. The hand-laminated hull with vinyl ester resin and the five-ply transom system are overkill in the best way. The twin F300s are the right power choice. You get speed when you need it and efficiency when you don’t. The boat handles inlet chop better than most boats five feet longer. That’s not marketing. That’s hull design and weight distribution done right.

This boat is for the owner who runs 100 to 200 hours per season and splits time between fishing and family use. It’s not for the weekend warrior who wants a floating patio. It’s not for the hardcore tournament angler who needs a 40-footer with a tower. The S 288 sits in the middle. It’s the right size for a couple with kids or a small group of friends. It’s trailerable if you have the truck. It’s manageable at the dock. It’s the Goldilocks boat for a lot of South Florida owners.

Resale on Pursuit boats is strong. The brand has a reputation for build quality and the S 288 benefits from that. Expect to hold 70 to 75 percent of your purchase price after three years if you maintain it properly. Maintenance costs are predictable because you’re dealing with outboards. No surprises. No hidden expenses. The boat will cost you what it costs you. That’s rare in this market.”