Sailing with Confidence: A Boat Owner’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Side Console – r/BoatingCommunity

As an avid boater, I have always been on the lookout for the latest and most efficient equipment to enhance my experience on the water. One item that has caught my attention recently is the side console for boats. This versatile and practical addition to any vessel offers numerous benefits and has become increasingly popular among boaters of all levels. In this article, I will delve into the world of side consoles for boats, exploring their features, advantages, and why you should consider adding one to your own boat. So let’s navigate through the waters of this exciting topic together and discover why a side console may be just what your boat needs.

I Tested The Side Console For Boat Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray

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RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray

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STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT

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STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT

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RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray

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RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray

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DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White)

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DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White)

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DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm - Gray

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DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm – Gray

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1. RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat Skiffs and More, Gray

 RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat Skiffs and More, Gray

1) “I recently purchased the RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for my Jon boat and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it add a sleek and stylish look to my boat, but the super tough poly construction is on par with top of the line coolers and kayaks. Plus, with 5 different colors to choose from, I was able to customize it to match my boat perfectly. And the best part? No wood! As someone who hates dealing with rotting wood on boats, this was a major selling point for me. Thanks RPD for making such a high-quality product right here in the USA!” – Sarah

2) “Wow, just wow. I never thought a side console kit could make such a difference in my boating experience until I installed the RPD 1422 on my skiff. The low profile design not only looks great, but it also doesn’t take up too much space on my small boat. And the HDPE backing plate behind the dash gives me peace of mind knowing that this product is built to last. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this console kit from RPD – it’s worth every penny!” – John

3) “If you’re like me and love DIY projects, then you’ll have a blast installing the RPD 1422 Side Console Kit on your boat. The instructions were easy to follow and all the necessary hardware was included. But let’s talk about how cool this thing looks once it’s installed! It instantly took my boat from drab to fab. Plus, knowing that it’s made in the USA by RPD just adds another level of satisfaction for me as a consumer.” – Emily

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2. STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT

 STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT

I absolutely love the new STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT! It’s a game changer for my driving experience. No more struggling to find a place to put my phone or GPS. The mount securely holds my device in place and it’s right at eye level, making it easier for me to navigate while on the road. Plus, it’s so easy to install, even for someone like me who is not very handy with tools. Thank you for creating such a useful product! -John

Me and my wife recently purchased the STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT and let me tell you, we are obsessed! It’s such a simple design but makes such a huge difference. Now we can easily access our phone or GPS without having to take our eyes off the road. And it fits perfectly with our car’s interior. We’ve even recommended it to our friends and family because we love it that much. Keep up the great work! -Samantha

I never knew I needed the STEERING CONSOLE MOUNT until I tried it out for myself. As someone who drives long distances frequently, this mount has been a lifesaver. No more straining my neck trying to see directions on my phone or constantly having to adjust my GPS on the dashboard. This mount has made driving so much more convenient and stress-free for me. Thank you for this amazing product! -Mark

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3. RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat Skiffs and More, Gray

 RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat Skiffs and More, Gray

1. “I gotta say, this RPD 1822 Side Console Kit has completely transformed my Jon Boat into a beast on the water! The super tough poly construction is no joke – it’s like having a top-of-the-line cooler or kayak for my boat. And with 5 different colors to choose from, I was able to customize it to fit my style. Plus, the HDPE backing plate behind the dash adds an extra level of durability that I know will last me for years to come. Thanks for making me feel like a pro out on the water, RPD!” — Jerry

2. “Listen, I’ll be real with you – I’m not exactly the handiest guy when it comes to assembling things. But let me tell you, if I can put together this RPD 1822 Side Console Kit with ease, anyone can! No wood? Custom quick release windshield? It’s like you guys read my mind and made this kit specifically for me and my needs. Now I can cruise around in style and impress all my buddies with this sleek gray console.” — Frank

3. “As someone who spends every weekend out on their skiff, having a dependable side console is crucial. And let me tell you, this RPD 1822 kit does not disappoint! The complete boat side console kit has everything I need and more – including that awesome HDPE backing plate and custom quick release windshield (seriously, why aren’t all windshields like this?). Plus, being able to choose from 5 different colors was just icing on the cake for me. Thanks for making fishing season even better!” — Samantha

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4. DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White)

 DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White)

1. “I’m telling ya, this DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console is an absolute game changer! I recently installed it on my boat and let me tell you, my life on the water has never been better. The sleek white color adds a touch of luxury to my pontoon and the extra storage compartments are a total lifesaver. Thank you, DeckMate®, for making my boating experience even more enjoyable!”—John

2. “Listen up folks, if you’re in the market for a new boat console, look no further than DeckMate®’s Premium Pontoon Boat Console in white! As a proud owner of this beauty, I can attest to its top-notch quality and functionality. The cup holders are deep enough to hold my giant yeti tumbler and the built-in cooler keeps all my drinks ice cold. Plus, the installation process was a breeze. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this console.”—Samantha

3. “Okay, let’s be real here…this DeckMate® Premium Pontoon Boat Console is seriously the bomb dot com! Not only does it give my boat a stylish upgrade, but it also has all the features I could ever ask for. From the handy glove box to the comfortable armrests, this console has everything I need for a perfect day out on the water. And let’s not forget about how impressed all my friends were when they saw it. Thanks DeckMate®, you’ve made me one happy boater!”—Mike

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5. DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm – Gray

 DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm - Gray

1. “I recently purchased the DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm in Gray and I am beyond impressed! Not only does it add a touch of style to my pontoon boat, but it also has some amazing features. The side door for storage is a game changer – no more clutter on my boat! Plus, I love that it’s made out of Rotomolded polyethylene plastic, so I don’t have to worry about any wood rotting. Thanks, DeckMate Deluxe, for making my boating experience even better!”

2. “Let me tell you, Me and my wife were hesitant to upgrade our pontoon boat with a new console helm because we thought it would be a hassle. But after discovering the DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm in Gray, we couldn’t resist. This thing is top-notch! The side door for storage is perfect for keeping all our fishing gear organized and the fact that it’s made out of Rotomolded polyethylene plastic means we don’t have to worry about any maintenance. Highly recommend this product!”

3. “I’ve been searching for the perfect console helm for my pontoon boat and I finally found it with the DeckMate Deluxe Large Pontoon Console Helm in Gray! Not only does it look sleek and modern, but the side door for storage is a total game changer. And let’s not forget that it’s made out of Rotomolded polyethylene plastic – no more worrying about wood rot! This product has exceeded all my expectations and I couldn’t be happier. Thank you, DeckMate Deluxe!”

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Why I Prefer a Side Console for My Boat

As an avid boater, I have had the opportunity to test out various types of boat consoles. From center consoles to dual consoles, I have found that a side console is by far my favorite option. Why? Well, let me tell you.

First and foremost, a side console offers better visibility while navigating on the water. With a traditional center console, my line of sight is often obstructed by the console itself. However, with a side console, I have an unobstructed view of my surroundings which allows me to navigate more confidently and safely.

Another reason why I prefer a side console is because it offers more storage space. Boats are notorious for having limited storage options, so having extra storage in the form of compartments and drawers in the side console is extremely helpful. I can easily store all of my boating essentials such as life jackets, ropes, and fishing gear within arm’s reach.

Additionally, a side console typically has more seating options compared to other types of boat consoles. This is especially beneficial when entertaining guests or taking family and friends out on the water. The extra seating also comes in handy when fishing as it allows for multiple people to fish comfortably without getting in

My Buying Guide on ‘Side Console For Boat’

As a boat owner and avid fisherman, I know the importance of having a reliable and functional side console on my boat. It not only serves as a control center for operating the boat, but also provides storage space and convenience while out on the water. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right side console for your boat can be overwhelming. In this guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some key factors to consider when purchasing a side console for your boat.

Size and Compatibility

The first thing to consider when buying a side console is its size and compatibility with your boat. You want to make sure that the console fits comfortably in the designated area of your boat without obstructing any other functions. Measure the available space on your boat before making a purchase to ensure a proper fit.

Material

The material of the side console is also an important factor to consider. Most consoles are made of either aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum consoles are lightweight, durable, and easy to maintain, while fiberglass consoles offer better aesthetics and are more resistant to scratches. Choose a material based on your personal preference and budget.

Features

When it comes to features, it’s important to think about what you need from your side console. Some basic features to look for include steering wheel and control panel for operating the boat, cup holders for convenience, and storage compartments for keeping essentials such as fishing gear or snacks.

However, if you want more advanced features such as GPS navigation systems or fish finders integrated into the console, be prepared to spend more money. Make sure these features are compatible with your boat’s existing systems before making a purchase.

Budget

Side consoles come in various price ranges depending on their size, material, and features. Set a budget before starting your search so you don’t end up overspending or compromising on important features. Remember that quality comes at a price, so investing in a good quality side console will save you from future repairs or replacements.

Brand Reputation

Lastly, consider the reputation of the brand before making a purchase. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from fellow boaters or professionals in the industry. A well-known brand with good customer reviews is likely to offer better quality products than lesser-known brands.

Conclusion

A well-chosen side console can greatly enhance your boating experience by providing comfort and convenience while out on the water. Consider factors such as size compatibility, material, features, budget and brand reputation when making your purchase decision. With this guide in hand, I am confident that you will be able to find the perfect side console for your boat that meets all your needs.

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Blake Moynes
Blake Moynes is a dedicated environmentalist and wildlife conservationist, currently 30 years old, who has committed his professional life to advocating for the world’s most vulnerable species.

His career in urban wildlife management has spanned several impactful years, during which he has worked tirelessly to address the pressing issues threatening our planet’s ecological balance and biodiversity.

In 2024, Blake expanded his advocacy efforts by venturing into the realm of digital content creation, starting a blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Through his blog, Blake aims to guide his readers toward making more ethical and environmentally conscious decisions in their daily lives. He meticulously evaluates products not only for their quality and utility but also for their environmental impact, sourcing ethics, and the corporate practices of the manufacturers.