Choosing the right center console for a small boat or jon boat improves control, comfort, and safety on the water. This guide highlights five practical options designed for compact vessels, focusing on durability, ease of installation, and weather resistance. Best for DIY boaters, skiff owners, and compact RIB enthusiasts who want a sturdy helm without compromising space.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Best For | Material | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| RPD 1019 Boat Console (Small) | Small boats, RIBs, skiffs | Rotationally molded poly | Durable; multiple color options |
| DeckMate Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White) | Pontoons requiring a clean, finished look | Rotationally molded plastic | Simple access panel |
| RPD 1822 Side Console Kit (Gray/Green) | Jon boats, skiffs | Super tough poly | Full side console kit |
| SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount | Aluminum or fiberglass hulls | Aluminum alloy | Adjustable height |
| RPD 1422 Side Console Kit (Gray) | Low profile consoles | Super tough poly | Compact design |
REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small
The RPD 1019 Small Boat Console offers a compact steering helm with a stainless steel grab rail and cup holders. This model accepts side-mount or binnacle controls and comes in multiple colors, including Clay, White, Black, Tan, Gray, and Green. It uses rotomolded poly construction designed to resist cracking and yellowing, making it suitable for long-term outdoor use. Best for budget-minded boat owners who need a durable, space-saving console for tight cockpit layouts. A potential limitation is color availability depending on stock.
REVOLUTION RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, White
This white variant mirrors the same indestructible, space-efficient design as the clay-toned model. It remains ideal for small boats and skiffs needing a robust helm with side-mount or binnacle compatibility. Best for boaters who prioritize a clean, lighter look and consistent performance. Consider availability of matching color accents if you’re coordinating a full interior theme.
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat
Complete boat side console kit with durable, top-tier poly construction. This model is designed for jon boats, skiffs, and similar vessels, and is available in clay, white, black, tan, gray, and green. Best for boaters who want a full side-console solution with long-lasting materials. A potential limitation is the weight and installation effort required for larger hulls.
DeckMate Premium Pontoon Boat Console (White)
DeckMate’s pontoon console emphasizes a solid rotationally molded plastic build with a plastic helm and a vinyl-covered access panel. The large removable access panel aids maintenance and checks. Best for pontoons needing a clean, shipshape appearance with straightforward access. A caution is that aesthetic integration with non-vinyl interiors should be assessed before purchase.
RPD 1822 Side Console Kit (Green)
Another color option in the RPD 1822 line, this green kit provides the same complete side console solution with heavy-duty poly construction. Best for boaters who want a cohesive color scheme or camouflage in natural waterways. Limitation to consider: color matching with existing hardware and fittings may vary by lot.
RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat (Gray)
Low-profile side console kit designed for compact layouts. The gray variant maintains a subdued appearance while offering the same poly durability and utility as larger kits. Best for users prioritizing minimal footprint without sacrificing function. Avoid this if you need full-coverage consoles with larger control surfaces for wide sterns.
SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount
An aluminum alloy steering console mount with adjustable height and a plywood-reinforced face for steering wheel mounting. Best for aluminum or fiberglass hulls needing a lightweight, solid mounting point. A limitation is potential compatibility with very large wheels or certain control systems.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a center console for a Jon boat or small craft include material durability, installation requirements, and compatibility with existing controls. Rotationally molded poly consoles excel in impact resistance and weather durability, while aluminum mounts are lighter and suitable for metal hulls. Consider color options if you’re coordinating a color scheme with seats, rails, and trim.
Questions to help decide:
- What size is your cockpit and how much space will a console occupy?
- Do you prefer a full side console kit or a compact center console?
- What controls will the console need to accept (side-mount, binnacle, or both)?
- Is color matching important for your boat’s interior theme?
- Do you need removable access panels for maintenance access?
Comparative considerations
- Best for space-constrained boats: RPD 1019 variants (compact footprint, multiple colors).
- Better for pontoons needing a clean finish: DeckMate Pontoon Console.
- Choose this if you want a complete side console kit for Jon boats: RPD 1822 gray/green/other colors.
- Aluminum mounting option is ideal when weight is a concern or hull material is metal: SFriding Mount.
FAQ
- What material is most durable for saltwater use? Rotationally molded poly is highly resistant to cracking and UV exposure, making it a common choice for harsh environments.
- Can these consoles fit all boat sizes? They target small to mid-sized jon boats, skiffs, RIBs, and pontoons; compatibility depends on cockpit dimensions and control configurations.
- Are removable panels necessary? They are convenient for maintenance access and can be included in several models like the DeckMate console.
- Do these consoles require professional installation? Some setups are straightforward, but complex side-console kits may benefit from professional mounting to ensure routing and control alignment.
- Can I mix colors with existing interior? Yes, but check color availability and ensure hardware color matches for a cohesive look.
- Which option is best for a fiberglass boat? Aluminum mounts and poly side consoles are generally compatible, but verify mounting hardware and interior dimensions first.