Glasstream 280 SCX Boat Review

April 29, 2021 By Florida Sportsman Editor

Let's take a closer look at the Glasstream 280 SCX in this review.

You can add an optional T-top/hard top and outriggers to more effectively balance out the boat's intended purpose between fishing and cruising.

With the rise in popularity of recreational boating done with a mission of relaxation and cruising first overfishing under certain circumstances, the need for a boat that offers comfort and amenities angled towards that end hasn't been lost on Glasstream Boats. This company is at the forefront of the industry when it comes to offering the features in a boat that can double as a fishing boat over a “poker run” style boat, rather than the other way around.

The 280 SCX model shares the performance aspects of her sister ship, the 280 PRO-XS- only offered in a deck layout more thoughtfully arranged for a group of friends to socialize on between stops at the local anchorage, sand bar, poker run watering hole or along the way to a dinner cruise. Seating forward of the console and in the cabin below provides an intimate setting for a relaxing cocktail cruise with friends- while a contoured bench seat across the transom with padded armrests and back support along with twin racing style helm seats offers a comfortable landing spot for when the throttles go down and it's time to give your adrenaline a boost.

Despite the cruising layout coming to the front of this models' personality, it's not entirely necessary to give up your fishing hobby. The 280 SCX can accommodate your angling interests. This model comes rigged standard with a pair of live wells, four rod holders, and a 272-quart insulated fishbox.

Our test model arrived rigged with a radar arch hard top which lends a sportier look for the poker run crowd however, you can also choose this model with an optional T-top/hard top and outriggers to more effectively balance out the boat's intended purpose between fishing and cruising.

Something of note about the 280-SCX is the fact that for such a sporty performance style hull, she offers pretty enviable fuel numbers for a boat in this class. Rigged with a pair of 200-HP Mercury's, this model showed us 3.4 MPG cruising at 40 MPH. One couldn't hope for more than that and with a range of greater than 400 miles on a tank you might find yourself in a high-performance boat that passes everything INCLUDING the fuel dock!

Glasstream 280-SCX

www.glasstream.com

For the poker run and cruising lifestyle crowd, the Glasstream 280 SCX offers seating for everyone.

An elevated foredeck platform reaches forward ahead of twin seats for a comfortable sunbathing experience.

Forward bulkhead seats offer a handy insulated drink box for keeping beverages cold.

A clean helm face and curved windscreen add an element of extra style to this racy looking console.

For the race boat performance and style the Glasstream 280 SCX features this racing bolster style helm station is a perfect match.

For a sporty look to support your hard top, an arch design is optional but a traditional T-top frame is also available.

Despite her sporty “Poker Run” layout, the Glasstream 280 SCX is angler friendly and overhead rod holders are at conveniently located on the hard top.

The forward console seat is the wind in your face spot for fresh air and offers plush upholstery and a thick padded headrest.

A forward lifting hatch into the console reveals a private head enclosure and dry storage compartment.

A remote searchlight is a helpful accessory for cruising after dark or the run home after a long day.

Bench seating with a comfortable backrest across the transom is the best seat in the house when the throttle drops.

Beneath the transom bench you’ll find an oversized access point into the bilge for systems maintenance.

A simple shift of cushions converts a V-shaped seat in the cabin below into a berth for a nap or an overnight camping trip.

Simple amenities in the cabin below offer extra convenience for an overnight cruising trip.

Climate controlled space below deck makes a hot summer day more enjoyable.

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