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Boston Whaler 150 Montauk (2018-)
1 x 60-hp Mercury FourStroke
Brief Summary
The latest 150 Montauk is all-new, but has the practical layout and traditional lines of the original. The new boat has a sharper bow entry, updated features, and new molded-in details that signal the latest Boston Whaler design thinking.
The new 150 Montauk is as versatile as always and maintains its classic “hose-and-go” that makes boating effortless. Every inch of the interior is effectively utilized to provide function or comfort for the operator and passengers. Whether outfitted for fishing, watersports, or both, the new Boston Whaler 150 Montauk fulfills those functions better than ever before.
Test Results
| RPM | MPH | Knots | GPH | MPG | NMPG | SM | NM | dBa |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600 | 2.7 | 2.3 | 0.2 | 13.5 | 11.7 | 146 | 126.8 | 67 |
| 1000 | 4.1 | 3.5 | 0.3 | 13.5 | 11.7 | 146 | 126.8 | 72 |
| 1500 | 4.9 | 4.3 | 0.5 | 10.9 | 9.5 | 118 | 102.3 | 73 |
| 2000 | 6.4 | 5.6 | 0.7 | 9.1 | 8 | 99 | 85.9 | 78 |
| 2500 | 7 | 6 | 1.3 | 5.6 | 4.8 | 60 | 52.2 | 80 |
| 3000 | 9.2 | 8 | 1.9 | 4.9 | 4.3 | 53 | 46.4 | 83 |
| 3500 | 13.8 | 12 | 2.1 | 6.7 | 5.9 | 73 | 63.2 | 85 |
| 4000 | 19.8 | 17.2 | 2.5 | 7.9 | 6.9 | 86 | 74.4 | 87 |
| 4500 | 24.2 | 21 | 3.4 | 7.2 | 6.3 | 78 | 67.8 | 88 |
| 5000 | 28.1 | 24.4 | 4.1 | 6.9 | 6 | 75 | 65 | 90 |
| 5500 | 31.6 | 27.4 | 5 | 6.4 | 5.5 | 69 | 59.9 | 91 |
| 5800 | 33.2 | 28.9 | 5.2 | 6.4 | 5.6 | 70 | 60.5 | 93 |
Specifications
| Length Overall | 15’ 5” / 4.70 m |
|---|---|
| Beam |
6’ 6” 1.98 m |
| Dry Weight |
950 lbs. 431 kg |
| Tested Weight |
1,672 lbs. 758 kg |
| Draft |
9” 0.23 m |
| Deadrise/Transom | 16 deg. |
| Max Headroom | Open |
| Bridge Clearance |
6’ 10” 2.08 m |
| Weight Capacity |
1,400 lbs. 635 kg |
| Person Capacity | 6 |
| Fuel Capacity |
12 gal. 45.4 L |
| Water Capacity | N/A |
| Total Weight |
1,672 lbs. 758 kg |
Acceleration Times & Conditions
| Time to Plane | 3.9 sec. |
|---|---|
| 0 to 30 | 9.6 sec. (0to20) |
| Ratio | N/A |
| Props | 13 3/8x14 Vengeance |
| Load | 2 persons, 7/12 fuel, N/A, 50 lbs. of gear |
| Climate | 85 deg., 74 humid.; wind: 5-10 mph; seas: calm |
Engine Options
| Tested Engine |
1 x 60-hp Mercury FourStroke |
|---|---|
| Std. Power |
1 x 60-hp Mercury FourStroke |
| Opt. Power |
Not Available |
Learn More
Watch Our Video
Boston Whaler redesigned the architecture of the 150 Montauk’s running surface to create a softer, drier ride.
Mission
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk is all about utility and versatility. Out-of-the box it is a rugged “hose-and-go” craft for exploring and pleasure boating. The 150 Montauk is also well-suited to utilize as a yacht tender. Boston Whaler offers fishing options and packages for the 150 Montauk that make it a capable inshore and nearshore fishing platform.
The intuitive helm and adjustable helm seating add to the overall effectiveness of the interior layout. Ruggedly designed to appeal and please boaters from novices to experienced captains, the 150 Montauk is an everyman’s boat.
Major Features
The standard layout shows the advantage of the expansive bow area. She has a rated capacity for six people.
- • New Hull Form. Boston Whaler reshaped the hull to provide a softer, drier ride and improved handling.
- • Versatile Functionality. By selecting items from the options list, the 150 can be turned into almost anything wanted in a 15-footer.
- • Adjustable Helm Seating. The 4-position helm seat has room to comfortably support the operator and a passenger.
- • Well Thought-Out Helm. The helm on the 150 Montauk is intuitive and easy to operate for novice-to-advanced boaters.
- • Quality Construction and Materials. This boat has the same unique Unibond™ manufacturing techniques used on all of the larger Boston Whalers that connects the hull with the deck adhesive foam that creates a single bond all throughout the boat.
- • Level Flotation. Boston Whaler is the brand that nudged the USCG to require that all boats 20’ (6.1 m) and less, with a 2-hp or greater engine, float level if swamped.
- • Resale Value. Boston Whalers in general have traditionally maintained their desirability over time.
- • Standard Galvanized Trailer. The standard trailer comes with a swing tongue for easier garage storage.
- • Optional Live Well Module. A livewell with rod holders can be fitted into the boat at the transom.
- • Warranty. Boston Whaler stands behind the 150 Montauk with a Ten-Year Structural Hull Limited Warranty, a Three-Year Limited Warranty on Components Manufactured or Installed by Boston Whaler, and a One-Year Limited Warranty on Upholstered Items, Canvas, Teak, and Powder Coating.
Click to read the full warranty.
Performance
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk’s improved hull design proved to be more stable and easier to handle.
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk has a length overall of 15’5” (4.7 m) and a beam of 6’6” (1.98 m). With an empty weight of 950 lbs. (431 kg), half fuel, test power, and two people aboard, we estimate the test weight at 1,672 lbs. (758 kg).
Top Speed. With the standard 60-hp Mercury 4-Stroke turning at 5800 rpm, the test boat reached a top speed of 33.2 mph.
Best Cruise. The best cruise came in at 4000 rpm and 19.8 mph. At that speed, the 2.5 gph fuel burn translated to 7.9 mpg and a range of 86 miles, while keeping 10% fuel in reserve of the 12-gallon (45.4 L) total fuel capacity.
Acceleration Times and Test Conditions
Time to plane: 3.9 sec.
0 to 20: 9.6 sec.
We recommend the 60-hp Mercury outboard for most applications, but a 40-hp Merc is also available. The transom height is 20” (50.8 cm).
Handling
With the sharper keel radius, the 150 Montauk showed improved handling characteristics.
Her bottom has a 16-degree deadrise, which makes her better riding than many skiffs on the market which often have a nearly flat bottom.
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk handled with ease with a solid feel on the water, in part due to the redesigned architecture of the running surface. When driving over waves created by the photo boat, at mid-speed the test boat launched over the wake and provided a soft re-entry that felt comfortable throughout.
With more speed, the test boat stayed even more level and skipped over the tops, keeping the ride stable and dry. The new 150 Montauk is nimbler and turns more soundly than previous 150 Montauk models, with just the right lean to prevent being pushed to the outside of the turn.
Chine walk has been completely eliminated. No matter how far the test boat was pushed, it remained stable and felt secure. If there were ever a simple boat that anyone would feel comfortable handing the kids the keys to, this is it. It is pure fun.
Boat Inspection
Classic lines give the Boston Whaler 150 Montauk a vintage look while the practical layout reflects Boston Whaler’s commitment to evolving the model with its owners in mind.
Bow
The elevated casting platform has molded-in anti-skid. The optional pedestal-mounted fishing seat shown is removable, and the backrest folds flat for storage.
The bow locker opens with a lift-and-lock latch and has an overboard drain. With the centerline cleat and eye-bolt for securing the bitter end of an anchor rode, it provides an ideal setup for ground tackle stowage.
All boats should have anchors. While the mission of this boat model can be for pleasure boating or fishing, owners should not forget that all boats must have at least one anchor suitable for holding securely in wind and the local sea-state. The type of bottom -- mud, grass, sand, or rock -- requires different styles of anchor. Some anchoring situations also call for more than one anchor to be used simultaneously.
The trolling motor panel shown here is a Boston Whaler factory option and is not compatible with the split bow rail option. There’s an 8” (20.3 cm) anchor and mooring cleat, something we usually only see on far larger boats.
Note: The bow locker is not suitable for dry storage. The lid gutter drains into the opening for the anchor rode, which is open to the weather, allowing water to run into the locker.
The bow navigation light’s base forms a chock for the anchor rode or dock lines attached to the center line bow cleat. This allows the anchor cleat to be used for mooring lines.
Boston Whaler offers an optional sun pad for comfortable additional seating.
The 36-quart cooler seating and console-mounted back rest with four rod holders were included in the 150 Montauk optional fishing package on the test boat.
Low Profile Grab Rails. The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk comes standard with low profile grab rails and molded-in port and starboard boarding steps. The cockpit depth is 17” (43.2 cm).
Shown here is the optional stainless-steel high rails and teak boarding steps. The split bow rail is not compatible with the trolling motor panel. The high rails are 11” (27.9 cm) above the gunnel and 29” (73.7 cm) above the deck.
Center Console
The center console design is an example of Boston Whaler’s understanding of how their owners boat. Note the number of features packed into this small space.
The Windshield Grab Rail. One example of how Boston Whaler understands the way their customers boat is the stainless-steel grab rail that encompasses the acrylic windshield. It not only protects the windshield, it also functions as a secure grab rail for ride-along passengers standing next to the console while running.
The top of the console is recessed to provide secure storage for incidentals and two cup holders. There is a 12-volt and a USB port. The compass shown is optional and is part of the fishing package installed on the test boat.
The console storage access door has a stainless-steel lift-and-lock latch, and inside the door is a holder for the all-around navigation light and a storage box.
Battery. Inside the console is the battery mounted in a battery box with battery hold-down straps to securely keep it in place.
Boston Whaler conveniently built in a cutout toe-kick at the base of the console to allow easier standup operation.
The recess on the starboard side of the console keeps the fire extinguisher easy to reach while out of the way. The tackle storage, shown, is optional and is a part of the fishing package installed on the test boat.
Helm
The fixed mounted stainless-steel steering wheel and Mercury binnacle shift and throttle control are standard on the 150 Montauk. The 7-inch (17.8 cm) Raymarine multi-function display is optional from Boston Whaler.
Analog gauges and lighted (when engaged) rocker switches with fuse resets directly below each keep the helm simple. The Raymarine VHF radio and Fusion stereo are options from Boston Whaler.
Helm Seat
With the backrest placed in the full aft position, the helm seat is a comfortable place to relax.
One position forward places the operator more upright, closer to the helm controls.
The third position is an upright, rear-facing seat and a leaning post for the operator and companion.
With the backrest all the way forward, the helm seat becomes a relaxing place to fish from or watch the kids enjoying the water behind the boat.
Under the helm seat is storage for the 12-gallon (45.4 L) fuel tank. The tank is held in place with two hold-down straps.
Cockpit
The standard cockpit measure 3’6” (1.07 m) from the transom to the helm seat and 5’2” (1.58 m) port to starboard.
The optional livewell shown on the test boat adds function and fishing features.
Optional Livewell. The livewell creates an aft casting platform with two drink holders and two in-deck rod holders. The fixtures on the port and starboard livewell walls add four more rod holders with tool holders and cutouts to retain port and starboard 5-gallon (18.9 L) buckets.
Shown is the port side livewell rod holder and tool holder. Note that the horizontal braces are slotted to perfectly fit a standard 5-gallon (18.9 L) bucket and have a strap to hold it in place.
The 10-gallon (37.9 L) livewell has a blue interior with rounded walls to keep bait calm.
The four-step reboarding ladder is transom-mounted.
Reboarding Ladder. Our test captain observed that the transom ladder could use a handle mount to the transom cap rail in lieu of grabbing the cap rail to reboard. ABYC standards call for all boats to have reboarding ladders deployable by someone in the water. It must reach a minimum of 22” (55.88 cm) below the waterline.
Boston Whaler offers an optional Bimini top for those who prefer to stay out of the sun.
For a traditional and classic look, Boston Whaler offers optional teak boarding steps.
Trailer
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk has a standard galvanized trailer available. It has a swing tongue, LED lights, tie-downs, a torsion axle, trailer jack, and winch with a nylon strap.
Trailers and Saltwater. Saltwater is an especially corrosive environment. To assure the longest life possible as well as the safety of those launching and retrieving a boat in saltwater, it is important to wash down the trailer with fresh water and soap after every use.
Warranty
The following is a boiled down version of the warranty description on the Boston Whaler 150 Montauk. We recommend that consumers read the fine print of all boat and engine warranties.
Ten-year Structural Hull Limited Warranty. Covers structural defects in the material or workmanship reported within ten years of ownership.
Three-Year Limited Warranty on Components Manufactured or Installed by Boston Whaler. Covers components manufactured or installed by Boston Whaler that are defective in factory materials or workmanship reported within three years of ownership.
One-Year Limited Warranty on Upholstered Items, Canvas, Teak, and Powder Coating. Covers upholstered items, canvas, teak, and powder coating manufactured or installed by Boston Whaler reported in the first year of ownership.
Click to read the full warranty.
Options to Consider
Fishing Package
- • Cooler (36-quart) with cushion seat and console-mounted backrest with rod holders (4)
- • Compass
- • Tackle drawers
Other Options
- • 10-gallon (37.9 L) livewell with rod holders (4), 5-gallon (18.9 L) bucket brackets (2), and tool holders
- • Bow cushion
- • Teak boarding steps
- • Trolling motor panel with battery box and wiring (not compatible with the split bow rail, includes low profile bow rail)
- • Removable pedestal fishing seat
- • Raymarine Axiom 7 DV, 7-inch (17.8 cm) electronics/navigation package
- • Raymarine Ray 52 VHF radio
- • Fusion AM/FM stereo with waterproof speakers (2) and MP3/USB inputs
Observations
We think that the 150 Montauk is well-suited for many purposes for people living on lakes, rivers, bays, and even on sounds and estuaries, in appropriate weather. We have said that the boat is ideal for kids to learn boating and enjoy watersports at the same time, but she is also a good utility boat for adults.
Maybe the best thing about the 150 Montauk is that she does not cost a king’s ransom, and for many boaters this is actually all the boat they need.
Test Video Summary
Overview
The Boston Whaler 150 Montauk is a classic Whaler redesigned from the keel up for the builder’s 60th anniversary, while keeping her classic heritage. She is a simple, fun small center console for fishing and family use. BoatTEST’s Captain tested her with a Mercury 60-hp Command Thrust four-stroke outboard.
“If there were ever a simple boat that anyone would feel comfortable handing the kids the keys to, this is it, it’s pure fun.”
Mission And Intended Owner
- Built To Do: Fishing and family fun
- Designed For: Owners who want a simple, easy-to-handle boat, including families with kids
- Locus Of Operation: Protected waters
“A Boston Whaler just wouldn’t be a Boston Whaler without fishing features.”
Design Overview
- Redesign: Redesigned from the keel up while keeping her classic heritage
- Running Surface: Redesigned, with a sharper deadrise
- Nav Light And Chocks: Completely redone, with the line running around the side, extended horns and the light right on top
- Console: Recessed toe areas at the bottom
Specifications
- Length Overall: 15 feet, 5 inches
- Beam: 6 feet, 6 inches
- Hull Draft: 9 inches
- Empty Weight: 950 pounds
- Fuel Capacity: 12 gallons, in a removable tank under the seat
- Cockpit: 5 feet, 2 inches by 3 feet, 6 inches
- Optional Raised Rails: 29 inches off the deck, 11 inches above the cap rail
- Livewell: 10 gallons
- Cooler: 36 quarts, holds 56 cans
Test Conditions And Test Weight
- Load: Half fuel and two people
- Test Weight: 1,672 pounds
Performance
- Tested Power: Mercury 60-hp four-stroke with Command Thrust
- Top Speed: 33.2 mph at 5,800 rpm
- Best Cruise: 19.8 mph at 4,000 rpm, burning 2.5 gph
- Fuel Economy At Best Cruise: 7.9 mpg
- Range At Best Cruise: 86 miles, holding a 10% reserve
| RPM | MPH | GPH | MPG | Range (Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4,000 | 19.8 | 2.5 | 7.9 | 86 |
| 5,800 | 33.2 | — | — | — |
Acceleration:
- Time To Plane: An average 3.9 seconds
- 0–20 mph: 9.6 seconds
Sea Trial And Handling
- Feel: Great handling with a good feel on the water, thanks to the redesigned running surface
- Mid Speeds: Launches over waves with a soft re-entry
- Higher Speeds: Stays more level and skips over the tops
- Spray: Nice and dry
- Turns: More nimble, with a sharper deadrise and just enough lean to avoid being shoved outward
- Chine Walk: Totally eliminated
- Stability: Stable and safe no matter how heavy-handed the driving
“This is a great handling boat with a good feel on the water thanks to the redesigned architecture of the running surface.”
“Basically, no matter how heavy-handed we got, we remained stable and safe.”
Features Inspection
The Helm
- Windshield: Stainless steel rail wrapping around it
- Compass: In line with the helm
- Connectivity: USB and accessory plug
- Nav Light Storage: A place to stow the nav light
- Display: Raymarine 7-inch display ahead of the wheel
- Gauges: To the right, with rocker switches that light when activated and circuit breakers underneath
- Radio And Audio: Raymarine VHF and Fusion stereo
- Steering: Wheel on a fixed base
- Controls: Mercury engine control
- Drink Holders: At the helm
- Toe Area: Recessed at the bottom of the console
- Seat: Double wide, with a seatback that reverses into four positions: forward-facing, aft-facing to watch lines or swimmers, and as a leaning post when standing
- Side Storage: Lift-and-lock access with a spot for quick-grab items
- Fire Extinguisher: Recessed area on the starboard side of the console
- Bimini Top (Optional): For sun protection
- Covers (Optional): A great addition
“I cannot tell you how thoughtful the design is, that the bottom of the console has recessed toe areas.”
Anchor Locker And Ground Tackle
- Anchor Locker: Sizable storage under the deck hatch
- Rode Ring: In front, to secure the anchor rode
- Access: The swivel pedestal seat lets the hatch open while the seat is in place
Boarding Amenities
- Cap Rail Steps: On both sides, with molded-in non-skid and a raised edge
- Rails: Inside rail on the test boat, or optional raised rails
- Boarding Step (Optional): Teak, on the port transom
- Boarding Ladder: Four-step
“I’d like to see a chain going across the open area midships.”
“I’d like to see a grab handle on top here, but you can grab onto the bulwarks to haul yourself out of the water.”
Cockpit Arrangement And Equipment
- Livewell: 10 gallons in the stern, aerated, blue, with rounded corners
- Latch: Lift-and-lock, easier to use than turn-and-lock
- Rod And Drink Holders: On both sides
- Tool Holders: Integrated
- Bucket Space: Relief for 5-gallon buckets on both sides
- Open Cockpit: Available instead of the livewell
- Cleats: 8-inch
- Fishing Package: Includes tackle sorters
Bow Arrangement
- Console Front: Rod holders, tool holders, and a seat pad on top of a 36-quart cooler
- Casting Deck: Elevated
- Seat: Swivel pedestal seat with a flip seatback
- Trolling Motor: Pre-rigged
- Alternatives: Casting deck only, or with a pad on top
Advantages And Disadvantages
Advantages
- Great handling and a good feel on the water
- Soft re-entry and a dry ride
- No chine walk, and stable no matter how hard she’s driven
- Excellent fuel economy: 7.9 mpg at best cruise
- Simple enough to hand the kids the keys
- Reversible seatback with four positions
- Pre-rigged for a trolling motor
- Thoughtful details like recessed toe areas and lift-and-lock latches
Disadvantages
- No chain across the open midships boarding area
- No grab handle at the top of the boarding ladder
- Small 12-gallon fuel capacity, for an 86-mile range
- Bimini, covers, raised rails and teak boarding step are optional
Related Boats
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Boston Whaler 190 Montauk (2007-)
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