The center console has always been about fishing, but the mission and purpose of these boats has expanded — so much so that they’re considered one of today’s most versatile vessels.

Amenities such as berths, galleys and on-deck seating along with propulsion improvements have made the center console more attractive to more people.

Here’s a look at some features you wouldn’t have found on a center console just 10 or 15 years ago.

1. full head compartment (with electric MSD),

galley, berths, air conditioning, television

2. genset

3. extended hardtop with outriggers

4. triple- and quadruple-outboard configurations as high as 1,400 hp

5. power-assist steering

6. digital fly-by-wire controls and gauges

7. forward and aft seating, including sunpads

8. power-actuated doors, hatch lids, helm seats

9. autopilot, radar and big-screen displays

10. bow thrusters

11. hull-side dive/boarding doors

12. freshwater washdown/shower

See related articles:

- The ever-changing center console

- Center console views

This article originally appeared in the October 2009 issue.