If you're looking for a center console that can confidently fish the open ocean one day and take the family cruising the next, the Cape Horn 24XS deserves a spot at the top of your list. Built around Cape Horn's reputation for rugged construction and offshore capability, the 24XS ("Extra Seating") blends serious fishability with practical comfort, making it one of the most versatile boats in the 24-foot class.
For anglers from Cape Cod to the Florida Keys, that's a combination that's hard to beat.
Built for Offshore Confidence
The first thing that stands out about the Cape Horn 24XS is its deep-V hull. With a 23-degree deadrise, over 25 feet of overall length, a 9-foot, 1-inch beam, and a hefty 3,700-pound dry weight, the boat is designed to inspire confidence when the forecast isn't perfect. A 136-gallon fuel tank gives it the range to comfortably run offshore for tuna, mahi, or canyon trips while still leaving plenty in reserve.
Cape Horn has built its reputation on producing solid, no-nonsense boats that prioritize ride quality and safety over flashy styling. The company's foam-filled construction contributes to an unsinkable design philosophy and gives owners peace of mind when conditions become challenging.
Designed by Fishermen
Step aboard the 24XS and it's obvious this boat was designed with anglers in mind.
The cockpit offers plenty of room for multiple anglers to work fish around the boat without constantly getting in each other's way. A massive insulated fish box, dual livewells, numerous rod holders, raw and freshwater washdowns, wide gunwales, and an oversized electronics mounting area all come standard.
For Northeast anglers, this layout is nearly ideal. Whether you're trolling for bluefin tuna east of Chatham, casting topwater plugs to blitzing striped bass off Monomoy, or jigging offshore wrecks for cod and haddock, the boat has the space and storage to keep gear organized without feeling cluttered.
Family-Friendly Without Sacrificing Fishability
The "XS" designation stands for Extra Seating, and that's where this model separates itself from traditional hardcore fishing boats.
Comfortable forward seating provides a place for family and friends to relax during a cruise while adding an impressive amount of dry storage underneath. The rear bench seat folds away when it's time to fish, and the walk-in console includes room for a portable head, making all-day outings much more comfortable. A transom gate also makes swimming, tubing, or boating large fish much easier.
Unlike many crossover boats, however, the fishing features remain the priority. Nothing about the added seating gets in the way once the rods come out.
Performance
Most 24XS models are powered with twin 200-horsepower outboards, giving the boat a maximum of 400 horsepower. That setup provides excellent acceleration, strong mid-range cruising speeds, and the reliability needed for long offshore runs.
The combination of the deep-V hull and substantial weight allows the 24XS to soften rough-water impacts better than many lighter competitors in its class. While no 24-foot boat can eliminate pounding in heavy seas, the Cape Horn delivers one of the driest and most confidence-inspiring rides available in this size range.
Fit and Finish
Cape Horn has always focused more on function than luxury.
If you're expecting yacht-level upholstery, elaborate wood accents, or premium designer touches, you'll find other brands that emphasize those features. Instead, Cape Horn invests in heavy-duty construction, simple systems, durable hardware, and layouts that are easy to clean after a long day of fishing.
Many owners appreciate this philosophy because it means fewer complicated systems to maintain and more time on the water.
The Cape Horn 24XS is one of the finest all-around offshore center consoles available today.
It offers the ride quality serious fishermen demand while adding enough comfort and versatility to keep the entire family happy. It's equally at home chasing bluefin tuna offshore, drifting for striped bass along Cape Cod's outer beaches, bottom fishing wrecks, or spending a relaxing afternoon cruising to the sandbar.
Pros:
Outstanding offshore ride
Heavy-duty, confidence-inspiring construction
Excellent fishing layout
Huge fuel capacity for its class
Family-friendly seating without compromising fishability
Strong resale value
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
For anglers who demand an offshore-capable center console that doesn't force them to choose between hardcore fishing and family comfort, the Cape Horn 24XS is one of the best investments you can make. It's a boat that's built to fish hard, run safely, and create memories for decades to come.