From the classifieds: Boston Whaler 350 Defiance

For starters, it was a boat that sent the brand’s luxury benchmark so high that it became the benchmark for everyone else to chase. The quality of the Boston Whaler 350 Definace’s fit and finish, and the qualities of the material used were a step above anything else at the time.

This hard-topped boat also helped to cement Boston Whaler as a luxury offshore fishing brand. When launched in 1999 as the 34 Defiance, the boat featured the largest cockpit in its class.

Fast, luxuriously appointed and extremely fishable, there was a lot to like.

The cockpit came equipped with a 200-litre live bait well built into the transom, big fish boxes, a clever transom door, padded gunnels, abundant tackle storage and a proper bait preparation station with a freshwater wash.

Inside, there was lots of wood and high-end fabric finishes in a cabin that boasted plenty of standing headroom. Below decks contains a full galley, a dinette that could convert into a double berth, a good-sized bow berth, and a head with a fully enclosed shower.

In terms of safety, nothing could come close to the Boston Whaler 350 Defiance. Much of it was made using a technique called Duobond that filled the stringers and all structures from the deck up with a foam core.

This gave the Boston Whaler 350 Defiance the unique ability to remain upright and afloat, even if the hull was swamped or breached.

Powering the Boston Whaler 350 Defiance were a pair of inboard engines that were good for a fast pace over variable conditions. Helping it was the Boston Whaler deep-vee hull that could cut through waves and swell with ease, while the central helm and one-piece windscreen helped to provide good all-around vision.

At rest, the Boston Whaler 350 Defiance was helped by its broad 4.05-metre beam that also helped with smooth and efficient running while up on the plane.

Most of these boats were fitted with twin 420hp Yanmar diesel engines. Engine maintenance was also factored into the boat’s design, with an electronically raising helm deck providing easy and efficient access to the engine room.

These boats still command good prices today. Many owners will also have optioned them up to include a game tower – smart considering the boat’s offshore chops.

These boats tend to hold their value and rarely come on the market.