Brunswick Corporation : Boston Whaler debuts cutting-edge new 285 Conquest Pilothouse

Illinois, U.S.A., Jan 24, 2012 (Thomson Reuters ONE via COMTEX) --EDGEWATER, Fla. Jan. 24, 2012 - With Boston Whaler's landmark release of the 285 Conquest Pilothouse, the boatbuilder firmly establishes itself as an industry leader in boating innovation. Featuring Boston Whaler's first-ever pilothouse configuration, which includes a state-of-the-art integrated windshield-hardtop system, aft bulkhead with door, and a fully-enclosed, weather-protected helm, the 285 Conquest Pilothouse offers unprecedented comfort and cover from the elements.

"The 285 Conquest Pilothouse represents a bold step forward for Boston Whaler," said Ron Berman, Boston Whaler's vice president of product development and engineering. "Along with the fall release of the totally redesigned 285 Conquest, the new pilothouse feature is an integral element in the evolution of our Conquest line. For boaters in more volatile weather regions, like the Pacific Northwest, the 285 Conquest Pilothouse is the ideal vessel."

The revolutionary pilothouse provides total helm climate control, with a tempered-glass, full-enclosure windshield system with electric vent, and a bulkhead with locking door. Windshield wipers with wash system enhance captain visibility, and an optional cockpit diesel heating system keeps the pilothouse toasty in cold weather. Inside the pilothouse, a starboard prep center provides a sink, cutting board, cup holder and handy storage underneath. To port, an elegant and innovative lounge with solid-surface, pull-out table adds to the overall richness of the space. Captains will enjoy a brand-new adjustable helm seat with flip-up bolster and armrests for unprecedented comfort and convenience. And attached to the hardtop, cockpit floodlights, a dome light, a ventilation hatch and rod holders augment the pilothouse's safety and utility. An available retractable canvas sun shade will provide protection from sun and rain all the way to the aft combing.

But there's much more to the 285 Conquest Pilothouse than the enclosure itself. A spacious cabin lies below, inviting overnighters with an airy ambience courtesy of warm LED lights, a skylight over the galley, and stunning headroom. Families sleep well thanks to a sumptuous V-berth with filler cushions and plush mid-double berth. The deluxe galley features a refrigerator, microwave, sink with faucet and cutting board, trash receptacle, 110-V outlet, and premium wood-grain cabinetry. Passengers can enjoy total privacy out on the water thanks to a homelike head with VacuFlush(TM) pumping system, stainless steel sink with pull-out shower, mirror, hanging storage and a shelf for toiletries.

"When we designed the new 285 Conquest Pilothouse, comfort in any condition was of the utmost importance-from the helm to the cabin," Berman said. "This boat stands out from the crowd in that regard. You will be hard-pressed to find another vessel in its class that provides accommodations that are as generous, even luxurious, as what you'll find on the 285 Pilothouse."

The 285's thoughtful amenities include abundant storage, topside and below. An innovative, three-drawer port storage compartment offers a convenient home for tackle. Four under-gunnel rod racks and four cabin interior rod racks lend anglers more than enough room for their fishing equipment, and dual in-deck fishboxes with drains and pump-outs are perfect for putting fresh catch on ice. The anchor tucks away neatly in a heavy-duty stainless steel anchor roller and is operated by a standard windlass. Additional spacious storage lockers lie beneath the V-berth cushions and in the mid cabin.

For all its convenience and intuitive design elements, it could be easy to forget that the 285 Conquest Pilothouse is also a technological dynamo. Standard dual 225-hp Mercury FourStroke Verado® outboards represent the cutting edge of modern marine power. They come paired with deluxe SmartCraft(TM) helm gauges, DTS Digital Throttle and Shift, and hydraulic power steering that puts the captain in total command. Available factory-installed Raymarine® electronics provide the latest in navigation electronics technology. A 200-gallon fuel tank gives owners peace of mind for weekend overnight trips or offshore angling outings. Owners have a suite of entertainment tools at their disposal, as well, including Clarion® waterproof speakers (two in cabin, two in cockpit) with iPod and AM/FM/CD functionality.

"Serious boaters trust the Conquest name because it can provide a premium experience for a range of pursuits," Berman said. "Fishermen will seek out the pilothouse for its rugged angling features and all-weather setup. Families will find first-class amenities throughout for overnight outings and entertaining guests. We're excited by the possibilities provided by the pilothouse feature. Boston Whaler is dedicated to offering the most gracious on-water experience to its owners, no matter your boating style, and to that end, the 285 Conquest Pilothouse delivers on numerous levels."

About Boston Whaler: For more than 50 years, Boston Whaler has been building superior quality unsinkable runabouts, cruisers and center console boats. Founded in 1958 and currently headquartered in Edgewater, Fla., the company's unique foam-cored construction process contributes not only unsurpassed flotation, but also superior ride characteristics and durability. The current product line ranges from 11 to 37 feet and is distributed around the world by a network of exceptional dealers. For more information about The Unsinkable Legend(TM), please visit www.bostonwhaler.com. Boston Whaler is owned by Brunswick Corporation, the largest marine manufacturer in the world.

About Brunswick Corporation:Headquartered in Lake Forest, Ill., Brunswick Corporation endeavors to instill "Genuine Ingenuity"(TM) in all its leading consumer brands, including Mercury and Mariner outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrives and inboard engines; MotorGuide trolling motors; Attwood marine parts and accessories; Land 'N' Sea, Kellogg Marine, and Diversified Marine parts and accessories distributors; Arvor, Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Cabo Yachts, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris FloteBote, Hatteras, Lowe, Lund, Meridian, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Suncruiser, Triton Aluminum, Trophy, Uttern and Valiant boats; Life Fitness and Hammer Strength fitness equipment; Brunswick bowling centers, equipment and consumer products; Brunswick billiards tables and foosball tables. For more information, please visit www.brunswick.com.

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