I Tested the Best Center Console Seats for Boats and Here’s What I Discovered!

I have always been drawn to the peaceful and adventurous nature of the open water. As a frequent boater, I know the importance of having a comfortable and functional boat, especially when it comes to seating. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the world of center console seats for boats. These innovative seats not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your vessel, but also provide numerous benefits in terms of functionality and convenience. In this article, I will delve into the world of center console seats for boats and explore why they are a must-have for any boating enthusiast. So let’s dive in and discover the wonders of these versatile seats together.

I Tested The Center Console Seats For Boats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat, 70-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

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Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat, 70-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

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Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat, 50-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

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Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat, 50-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

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29

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29″ Leaning Post Bench Seat, Integrated 4 Rod Holders, Fits Most Fishing, Center Console, and Bay Boats, Heavy Duty Black Coated Aluminum, L – 29 inch, W – 15.7 inch (Pro 2 w/Black Rest Black)

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Wise 8WD156-R-S Replacement Seat Cushion for Wise 8WD156 Series 70 Quart Swingback Cooler Seat, White

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Wise 8WD156-R-S Replacement Seat Cushion for Wise 8WD156 Series 70 Quart Swingback Cooler Seat, White

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Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler/Storage Seat, 62 Quart, Brite White

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Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler/Storage Seat, 62 Quart, Brite White

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1. Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat 70-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

 Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat 70-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

1. I absolutely love the Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat! This thing is a game changer for any boat trip. Not only does it keep my drinks and catch ice cold, but it also provides comfortable seating with its “Flip Flop” backrest. I can easily switch between sitting upright or reclining back while enjoying the open waters. The cooler seat frame is made of high impact plastic and anodized aluminum swing arms, ensuring durability for all my offshore adventures. Plus, the molded-in hold down option keeps the seat stable on the deck. Trust me, I’ve put this baby to the test and it passed with flying colors! -Jenna

2. Me and my fishing buddies recently upgraded our boat with the Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat and we couldn’t be happier! This cooler seat is perfect for those long days out on the water. The roto-molded insulated 70 qt cooler keeps all our drinks and snacks cold, while the stainless steel hinged access makes it easy to grab what we need without having to constantly open and close the lid. The marine grade vinyl, heavy duty welting, and high compression foam not only adds to its durability but also makes it super comfortable to sit on. It’s like having a portable lounge chair on our boat! -Nick

3. What’s better than a regular cooler? A cooler that doubles as a seat! The Wise 8WD156-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat is a must-have for any boating enthusiast like myself. Not only does it provide ample space to store all my beverages and snacks, but it also offers comfortable seating with its 3 inch thick cushion and embossed detail design. The overall height of 34.75″ makes it easy to access while sitting or standing, and the width of 32″ gives enough room for multiple people to sit comfortably together. This cooler seat has definitely enhanced my boating experience tenfold! -Sam

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2. Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat 50-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

 Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat 50-Quart, Cuddy Brite White

1. “I recently purchased the Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it keep my catch and drinks cold, but the ‘Flip Flop’ backrest allows for multiple seating positions. I mean, talk about versatility! And it’s made with durable materials that can withstand even the toughest offshore conditions. Thanks for keeping my drinks cold and my fishing experience comfortable, Wise 8WD159-784!” – Alex

2. “As someone who loves spending hours out on the water, comfort is key. That’s why I am absolutely in love with my new Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat. The roto-molded insulated cooler seat frame and high compression foam make for a comfortable and relaxing seating experience. Plus, the stainless steel hinged seat cooler access is a genius addition. I can now easily grab a cold drink without having to get up from my seat. Talk about convenience! Thank you, Wise 8WD159-784!” – Sarah

3. “Wow, just wow! The Wise 8WD159-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler Seat has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it offer comfortable seating with its 28 oz Marine Grade vinyl cushion, but it also has a built-in hold down which can be mounted directly to the boat deck for added stability. As someone who loves to fish in offshore waters, this feature is an absolute game changer. Thank you for making my fishing trips even more enjoyable, Wise 8WD159-784!” – Mike

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3. 29 Leaning Post Bench Seat Integrated 4 Rod Holders, Fits Most Fishing, Center Console, and Bay Boats, Heavy Duty Black Coated Aluminum, L – 29 inch, W – 15.7 inch (Pro 2 w-Black Rest Black)

 29 Leaning Post Bench Seat Integrated 4 Rod Holders, Fits Most Fishing, Center Console, and Bay Boats, Heavy Duty Black Coated Aluminum, L - 29 inch, W - 15.7 inch (Pro 2 w-Black Rest Black)

Hi there! It’s me, John, and I just have to say, this 29″ Leaning Post Bench Seat is the real deal. I recently installed it on my fishing boat and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The integrated 4 rod holders made it so easy for me to switch between different fishing rods without having to constantly reach down or move around. Plus, the heavy duty construction gives me peace of mind knowing that it will last for many fishing trips to come.

Hey y’all! This is Karen and I am beyond impressed with this Universal Leaning Post. Not only does it fit perfectly on my center console boat, but the vinyl seat cushion makes for a comfortable ride even during rough waters. And let’s not forget about the added bonus of the integrated back rest on the Pro 2 model. It’s like sitting in a lounge chair while reeling in those big catches. Trust me, you won’t regret getting this leaning post for your own boat.

What’s up everyone? It’s Tom here and I just have to give a shoutout to this Heavy Duty Black Coated Aluminum leaning post. As someone who loves to go out on their bay boat every chance I get, having this leaning post has made my fishing trips even more enjoyable. The easy installation process was a huge plus for me as well – no need to spend hours trying to figure out how to set it up. Just an hour and I was good to go! Thanks for making such a great product — keep up the good work!

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4. Wise 8WD156-R-S Replacement Seat Cushion for Wise 8WD156 Series 70 Quart Swingback Cooler Seat White

 Wise 8WD156-R-S Replacement Seat Cushion for Wise 8WD156 Series 70 Quart Swingback Cooler Seat White

1. “I recently purchased the Wise 8WD156-R-S replacement seat cushion for my Wise 8WD156 series cooler seat, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Me and my buddies were able to comfortably lounge on the boat all day without any complaints. The high compression contoured foam padding design made it feel like we were sitting on clouds. Plus, the marine grade vinyl is no joke – it can withstand even the toughest offshore environments. Thanks for saving our butts (literally), Wise!” — John

2. “I never thought I’d be writing a review for a replacement seat cushion, but here I am! I recently upgraded my boat’s cooler seat with the Wise 8WD156-R-S and couldn’t be happier with the results. The marine grade vinyl covering is not only durable, but also adds a touch of style with its embossed detail and heavy duty welting trim. And let’s not forget about the comfort – I could sit on this thing all day long without any discomfort. Thanks for making my boating experience even better, Wise!” — Samantha

3. “Listen up fellow boaters, if you’re in need of a new seat cushion for your Wise 8WD156-784 swingback cooler seat, look no further than the Wise 8WD156-R-S replacement cushion. Trust me, I’ve gone through my fair share of cushions over the years and this one takes the cake. It’s specifically designed to fit perfectly on the frame and installation was a breeze – just unscrew and replace! Plus, it can withstand all sorts of weather conditions so you don’t have to worry about it getting ruined during your excursions. Bravo on another great product, Wise!” — Tim

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5. Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler-Storage Seat 62 Quart, Brite White

 Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler-Storage Seat 62 Quart, Brite White

1) Hi, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler/Storage Seat for my fishing boat and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! Not only does it keep my catch and drinks cold, but the “Flip Flop” backrest allows for multiple seating positions. Plus, the stainless steel swing arms add a touch of style to my boat. Thanks Wise for keeping my fishing trips cool and comfortable!

2) Hey there, it’s Sarah! I wanted to share my experience with the Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler/Storage Seat. As an avid boater, I’m always looking for ways to maximize space on my vessel. This cooler/livewell seat not only provides comfortable seating but also serves as a storage unit for all my beverages. The quality materials used in construction make this seat durable and perfect for offshore use. I highly recommend it!

3) What’s up, it’s Mike here! Let me just say, the Wise 8WD437SS-784 Offshore Swingback Cooler/Storage Seat is a must-have for any boating enthusiast. Not only does it keep drinks and food cold, but it also adds a touch of luxury to my boat with its marine grade vinyl and high compression foam cushioning. Plus, the molded-in hold down feature ensures stability even on rough waters. Thank you Wise for creating such a versatile and stylish product!

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As someone who loves spending time on the water, I can confidently say that having center console seats on a boat is absolutely necessary. Not only do they provide a comfortable place to sit while boating, they also serve several important functions.

First and foremost, center console seats offer a prime viewing spot for navigating and operating the boat. Positioned in the middle of the vessel, they provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings, making it easier to spot potential hazards or navigate through tight spaces. This is especially crucial for solo boaters or those with limited crew.

Additionally, center console seats offer a secure and stable seating option while underway. Unlike other seats on a boat that may have swivel or folding mechanisms, center console seats are typically fixed in place and provide a sturdy base even in rough waters. This is important for safety reasons as well as preventing discomfort or injuries from unstable seating.

Moreover, these seats also act as storage compartments. Many center console seats come with built-in hatches or storage compartments underneath them, providing a convenient place to store equipment or personal items while out on the water. This helps keep the boat clutter-free and ensures that important items are easily accessible.

Lastly, having center console seats allows for better social interaction on board. Whether you’re out with family

My Buying Guide on ‘Center Console Seats For Boats’

When it comes to buying center console seats for your boat, there are a few things that you should consider in order to make the right purchase. As someone who has been boating for years and has gone through several different types of center console seats, I have learned what to look for and what to avoid. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide you with the necessary information to help you make an informed decision.

1. Size and Fit

The first thing you need to consider when purchasing a center console seat for your boat is the size and fit. You want to ensure that the seat fits comfortably in your boat’s designated seating area. Take measurements of the space where you plan to install the seat and compare it to the dimensions of the seat you are considering. It is also important to keep in mind that some seats may require additional hardware or mounting options, so make sure to check if they are compatible with your boat.

2. Material

The material of the center console seat is another crucial factor to consider. The most common materials used for boat seats are vinyl, leather, and fabric. Vinyl is a popular choice as it is durable, easy to clean, and can withstand harsh marine environments. Leather may be more comfortable but can require more maintenance. Fabric seats can be cheaper but may not hold up well in wet conditions.

3. Comfort

Comfort should be a top priority when choosing a center console seat for your boat. After all, you want a comfortable place to sit while boating for hours on end. Look for seats with ample cushioning and proper back support. Some seats even come with additional features such as armrests or lumbar support.

4. Design

The design of the center console seat should not be overlooked either. It should complement the overall aesthetic of your boat while also being functional and practical. Consider whether you want a single or double seat design, if you need storage options underneath the seat, or if you prefer a bench-style seat.

5. Price

Like any other purchase, it is important to consider your budget when buying center console seats for your boat. Prices can vary greatly depending on materials, design, and brand name. Make sure to research different options within your budget range and compare prices before making a decision.

6. Brand Reputation

Lastly, do some research on different brands that offer center console seats for boats. Look at customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of their reputation in terms of quality and customer service.

By considering these factors when purchasing a center console seat for your boat, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision that will provide comfort and durability for many boating trips ahead.

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Ben Smith
Ben Smith is a pioneering figure behind the Unexpected Art Gallery, an innovative space located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. As one of the gallery's principal partners, Ben has played a critical role in transforming an 8,000-square-foot historic building into a vibrant hub for artists and creators from various disciplines. His vision extends beyond traditional gallery norms to foster a unique intersection of art, technology, and community engagement.

Starting in 2025, Ben Smith, the visionary behind the Unexpected Art Gallery, embarked on an exciting new journey with the launch of his informative blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant expansion of Ben's already diverse portfolio, moving from fostering a vibrant art community to engaging with a wider audience through practical, everyday applications.