The best event of the year is back! Join us for Grady-White Demo Days to take your favorite model for a test drive with one of our Grady-White experts.
Boca Grande Marina
220 Harbor Dr.
Boca Grande, FL 33921
February 7th - 9am - 5pm
February 8th - 9am - 5pm
February 9th - 10am - 4pm
Take your favorite model out for a test drive during our Demo Days event. We will have to most popular Grady White models available* for you to take on a sea trial.
Grady-White center console boats are crafted for the avid angler, however, they can also serve well for family outings and leisurely cruising. Their center console design features the helm positioned centrally, enabling easy access from the front to the back of the boat along both sides. A notable advantage of this layout is that it allows fishermen to move around freely while battling a large catch. Smaller center consoles are adaptable, making them suitable for both inshore and offshore trips, often equipped with storage and a bathroom in the console. Larger luxury models may offer cabin space beneath the helm, which can include a bathroom, sink, storage, and sometimes even a sleeping area. The boat's size will influence the distance and areas you can explore, as the open design offers less shelter compared to other types, except in larger models, which are naturally built to endure more challenging conditions.
The term "Coastal Explorer" was created by Grady-White to describe their initial model in this category, often known as bay or inshore boats. These vessels are tailored for anglers seeking a fishing boat suitable for shallow waters. Typically, they feature a casting deck at the front and low gunnels, which facilitate easy access to the water when landing a fish. Their design includes a shallower draft, allowing them to navigate in shallow inshore areas.
Configured like center console boats, the Grady-White Coastal Explorer Series incorporates a SeaV²® hull that enhances stability for both inshore and offshore journeys. While many inshore boats are not ideal for offshore use, the Grady Coastal Explorers can safely and comfortably venture into deeper waters. This combination of design and size not only optimizes fishing capabilities but also caters to families who enjoy water sports and beach activities.
Dual console boats are ideal for boaters looking for a versatile recreational vessel that can accommodate a wide range of activities. Commonly known as crossover boats, they typically have a helm positioned on the starboard side, while the port side features a console with storage space or head and a companion seat, along with a central walkway. The dual console design provides a lounge area that offers more storage than traditional center console boats. This lounge can often be transformed into a fishing casting platform or, with additional cushions, a spacious sunpad for lounging. Larger models usually include sleeping quarters and a complete head and shower facility. Perfect for families, dual console boats are excellent all-around choices for those interested in fishing, cruising, and enjoying water sports across various aquatic environments.
Ideal for hosting family and friends while also versatile enough for offshore fishing, Express cabin boats prioritize performance, comfort, and luxury. With a more streamlined and sporty design compared to walkaround cabin boats, Express cabins offer generous space for overnight stays as well as a roomy cockpit area. The boat's size influences the sleeping capacity and additional features like the bathroom and kitchen areas. These boats are appropriate for a range of waterways, including lakes, rivers, coastal areas, and the open sea.
Walkaround cabin boats, often referred to as cuddy cabins, serve a dual purpose as fishing vessels and family cruisers with overnight facilities. These boats feature an open cockpit and a cabin equipped with a berth and head, allowing for easy movement all around the boat from stern to bow. This design is particularly beneficial for anglers, enabling them to navigate the length of the boat while fishing. Grady-White models are known for their deeper walkaround sections, providing stable footing and featuring robust through-bolted stainless steel handrails for added safety. Larger walkaround boats typically offer more cabin space, which can include a galley both in the cabin and the cockpit, as well as multiple berths. Versatile enough for use on lakes, as well as in open waters and the ocean, walkaround boats are an excellent choice for families or ships with crew members.
* Only a selection of these models will be available for a test drive at the Marina on the days of the event.
Start with test driving your favorite Grady-White model, then stick around to enjoy the marina amenities or grab lunch, or a sunset dinner, at Eagle Grille or Millers Dockside.
The Eagle Grille, located in Boca Grande, Florida, is a prominent dining destination known for its stunning waterfront views and unique coastal cuisine.
The Eagle Grille is situated at the Boca Grande Marina (formerly Miller's Marina), on the Intracoastal Waterway. It offers spectacular second-floor waterfront views from every table, overlooking the marina and the Charlotte Harbor. The restaurant provides a quiet, peaceful setting upstairs, contrasting with the more lively atmosphere of Miller's Dockside, which is located downstairs. The Eagle Grille is known for its coastal cuisine, prepared fresh daily.
The Eagle Grille is open for dinner service from Tuesday to Sunday, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, and reservations are accepted. The menu features a variety of seafood, steak, and other dishes, all presented in a maritime-themed decor. The restaurant also has a well-stocked bar, making it a great spot for both dining and enjoying cocktails.
Miller's Dockside, in Boca Grande, Florida, just below Eagle Grille, is a vibrant and popular waterfront restaurant that offers a unique dining and social experience.
Miller's Dockside is located at the Boca Grande Marina, on the Intracoastal Waterway This location provides stunning views of the marina basin and is close to the Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf of Mexico. Miller's Dockside is known for its lively and casual atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It serves as the local island sports bar, where patrons can watch their favorite sports teams on one of the five flat-screen TVs, including college games and the NFL Sunday Ticket during football season.
The restaurant offers a unique, coastal cuisine prepared fresh daily. The menu caters to a variety of tastes, and the setting allows diners to enjoy the views of the marina while savoring their meals.
Miller's Dockside is part of the legendary tarpon fishing culture in Boca Grande, often referred to as "The Tarpon Capital of the World." The restaurant is a gathering place for fishermen and those who enjoy sharing fishing stories and relaxing in a friendly environment. Miller's Dockside is accessible both by land and water, making it a convenient stop for boaters and those arriving by car.
The marina itself offers various amenities such as free Wi-Fi, BBQ grills, picnic areas, showers, laundry facilities, and a pump-out station. Additionally, golf cart rentals are available for exploring the island.
Grady-White Boats has a rich and storied history that spans over 65 years, marked by significant milestones, innovative designs, and a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Grady-White Boats was founded in 1959 by Glen Grady and Don White in Greenville, North Carolina. Initially, the company produced small wooden boats, leveraging the local expertise of furniture craftsmen to construct these vessels. The early models, introduced in 1960, included 16'6", 17'6", and 20' outboard-powered boats, known for their high freeboards and flared bow entries to handle the rough coastal waters.
By the mid-1960s, Grady-White began experimenting with fiberglass, although Glen Grady initially believed it to be a fad. However, by 1968, fiberglass boats had become the industry standard, and Grady-White, still producing wooden boats, was struggling financially. This led to the sale of the company to Eddie Smith, a 26-year-old entrepreneur, who recognized the potential and took over the company with the support of his father.
Under Eddie Smith's leadership, Grady-White transitioned fully to fiberglass boat production. Smith introduced several innovations, including the addition of rod holders, non-skid decks, insulated and self-draining storage compartments, and sufficient foam flotation to make the boats "unsinkable".
Grady-White continues to innovate, with a strong focus on customer feedback and design improvements. The company has expanded its production facilities and introduced new models and features, such as walkaround cabin designs, microwaves, showers, and other amenities aimed at seafaring families.
Grady-White is renowned for its exceptional attention to detail, superior hardware, and "unsinkable foam flotation." The company's commitment to quality, safety, and reliability has earned it numerous awards and a loyal customer base. Eddie Smith's vision of being the "best, not the biggest" has guided the company's growth without debt, allowing for sustainable expansion and resilience in economic fluctuations.
Grady-White is also dedicated to environmental conservation, fisheries management, and community enrichment. The company supports various initiatives to protect waterways and promote outdoor recreation, reflecting Eddie Smith's respect for the environment and commitment to future generations.
In 1993, Kris Carroll, who joined Grady-White in 1975, became the company's president, marking her as the first woman president of a major boat company. This leadership has continued the company's legacy of integrity, pride in workmanship, and strong customer relationships.
Grady-White Boats remains a leader in the marine industry, celebrated for its ruggedly elegant coastal fishing boats, innovative designs, and unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Pair your purchase with the Grady-White Chart Your Course sales event and save big. Get exclusive pricing on qualified new 2025 models*, for a limited time.
Discover the unmatched excellence of boating with a Grady-White boat, where superior craftsmanship meets an unparalleled ownership experience. There truly is no better vessel than a Grady-White, designed to provide you with the ultimate on-water adventure.
Imagine the thrill of charting your new course as you select the Grady of your dreams, tailored to fit your lifestyle and aspirations. Right now, you have the opportunity to take advantage of exclusive Sales Event pricing, making this the perfect time to invest in your future on the water. Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your boating experience to new heights!
* some exclusions apply
Our annual Grady-White Demo Days event presents an exciting opportunity for boating enthusiasts to experience the renowned quality and performance of Grady-White models firsthand. Set in the picturesque Boca Grande Marina from February 7th to 9th, attendees can test drive their favorite boats while enjoying the marina's amenities and dining options. This event not only allows potential buyers to explore the latest models but also offers exclusive pricing through the Grady-White "Chart Your Course" sales event, making it an ideal time to invest in a new boat that aligns with their lifestyle.
With a legacy spanning over 65 years, Grady-White continues to lead the marine industry with innovation and a commitment to quality. Founded by Glen Grady and Don White, the company has evolved from producing wooden boats to creating advanced fiberglass models that prioritize customer feedback and environmental stewardship. Under the experienced leadership of Kris Carroll, Grady-White remains dedicated to crafting reliable, elegant coastal fishing boats that meet the needs of modern boaters while supporting community initiatives. Don't miss this chance to enhance your boating experience and join a legacy of excellence on the water.
