1988 Cobalt 23BR

1988 Cobalt 23BR (Bowrider)

Dealer Overview

"Step back into the golden era of classic american runabouts with a vessel that defined premium luxury on the water: the 1988 Cobalt 23BR. While ordinary 1988 bowriders were built as mass-produced, price-conscious pop-outs, Cobalt Boats engineered the 23BR as a top-shelf heirloom vessel. It commands absolute respect at any dock with its timeless, hand-sculpted fiberglass lines and deep, solid profile.

Built on Cobalt’s legendary, wood-free synthetic stringer framework and reinforced with a heavy-duty Kevlar® keel, this 23-foot flagship is built like a tank. Paired with heavy-hitting stern drive options—most notably the muscle-bound MerCruiser 5.7L V8 (260 HP) or the ferocious 7.4L big-block V8—the 23BR features a specialized deep-V hull configuration. This engineering masterpiece cuts through heavy lake chop with a bone-dry, whisper-quiet poise that leaves entry-level boats bouncing in your wake. For the vintage boat connoisseur or family seeking unmatched prestige, retro styling, and bulletproof durability, the Cobalt 23BR stands in a class completely its own."

Key Features & Premium Craftsmanship

• Kevlar®-Reinforced Solid Hull: Built to endure decades of lake life, Cobalt’s premium lamination process blends heavy, hand-laid fiberglass matting with a solid Kevlar® keel strip. This ensures unmatched structural defense against underwater hazards and eliminates hull flex entirely.

• Aluminum Plate-Seated Hardware: You will not find loose screws or rattling components here. Every single piece of exterior marine hardware on a Cobalt—from the windshield frame to the cleats and structural seat bases—is through-bolted directly into heavy-duty aluminum plates embedded in the fiberglass.

• Glare-Resistant Classic Helm: The driver's cockpit features a flat black, anodized aluminum dash panel that cuts reflection down to zero. It comes beautifully outfitted with high-visibility marine gauges, integrated circuit breakers (completely replacing less reliable fuses), and a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel.

• Premium Social Layout: Bypassing the cramped layouts of the 80s, the 23BR utilizes an exceptionally wide 8-foot beam. It features deep-seated, scientifically developed multi-density foam lounge couches wrapped in heavy-gauge marine vinyl, alongside a massive in-floor ski locker to cleanly hide gear away.

Technical Specifications

• Length Overall (LOA): 23' 0"

• Beam Width: 8' 0"

• Passenger Capacity: Up to 10 people

• Approx. Dry Weight: 3,800 lbs (varies by engine block)

• Hull Configuration: Deep-V

• Popular Engine Options: MerCruiser 5.7L V8 (260 HP) / 7.4L Big-Block V8 or OMC King Cobra Propulsion

Dealer Showcase & Optional Equipment

Please note: Features listed below represent popular factory configurations and common pre-owned accessories. Equipment may vary by individual inventory availability. Contact your sales representative to confirm the exact options present on this specific hull.

• Molded-In Fiberglass Swim Platform: Sits low to the waterline and features a concealed stainless steel boarding ladder, creating a safe, comfortable staging zone for swimming.

• Snap-In / Snap-Out Marine Carpet: Removable cockpit carpet lining that adds a layer of soft comfort underfoot and pulls out easily for quick end-of-the-day hosing down.

• Stainless Steel Bow Scuff Plate: Heavy-duty structural plate anchored directly to the bow stem to protect the pristine gelcoat from trailer roller dings.

• Heavy-Duty Bimini Shade Top: Color-matched canvas canopy with stainless steel structural framing to provide maximum sun protection over the main cockpit.

• Bow & Cockpit Canvas Storage Covers: Tailored canvas storage covers engineered to protect the interior vinyl upholstery from rain and UV damage when docked.

• Custom Tandem-Axle Bunk Trailer: Heavy-duty matching trailer equipped with a forward loading winch, integrated steps, and surge brakes for effortless trailering.