The best small boat center console upgrades combine durable materials, smart mounting options, and easy installation. This guide highlights five compact consoles and accessories suited for RIBs, jon boats, skiffs, and other small craft. It helps you pick based on build quality, attachment versatility, and practical use cases. Read on to discover who each product is best for and why it stands out in its category. A quick summary table is provided below for fast comparisons.
Product Snapshot
- REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, White
- REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1019 Boat Console, Small, OD Green
- REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1822 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
- REVOLUTION PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT RPD 1422 Side Console Kit for Jon Boat, Skiffs and More, Gray
- SFriding Aluminum Boat Steering Console Mount with Plywood Reinforced Face
Best Compact RPB 1019 Boat Console, White
The RPD 1019 White is a compact steering helm with a stainless steel grab rail. Its small footprint suits RIBs and skiffs needing a clean control hub. Best for: boats that require a sturdy, space-saving console with integrated cup holders. The rotationally molded poly construction resists cracking and yellowing, ensuring a long-lasting finish. Caution: ensure fitment with your current binnacle or side mount controls before purchase.
Best Compact RPD 1019 Boat Console, OD Green
This OD Green version mirrors the White model with a color option that blends with darker hulls. Best for: boats where color matching to your deck improves aesthetics. The same indestructible poly construction provides durability for lifetime use. Consider: verify availability of compatible controls for your helm setup before ordering.
Best Side Console Kit for Jon Boats, Gray (RPD 1822)
The RPD 1822 is a complete side console kit with heavy-duty poly construction. Best for: Jon boats, skiffs, and similar craft needing a full kit rather than a single console. It shares the same rugged material used in high-end coolers and kayaks. Caution: check if your boat can accommodate a low-profile console without obstructing seating or storage.
Best Low-Profile Side Console Kit, Gray (RPD 1422)
The RPD 1422 offers a low-profile alternative with the same tough construction. Best for: boats needing a cleaner cockpit with less vertical space. It remains compatible with a range of controls and mounts. Limitation: ensure the kit includes all mounting hardware appropriate for your hull type to avoid custom adaptations.
Best Aluminum Steering Console Mount (SFriding)
The SFriding mount uses an aluminum alloy with a plywood-reinforced face for wheel mounting. Best for: aluminum or fiberglass boats needing a robust, adjustable console mount. It supports depth finder mounting with a flat top. Caution: verify the thickness of your mounting surface and the weight of your helm instruments to ensure proper fit.
Buying Guide
What should I look for in a small boat center console?
Durability, material type, and compatibility with your controls are top priorities. Rotationally molded poly structures resist cracking and UV damage, while metal mounts offer added rigidity for heavier instrumentation. Check fitment with existing binnacle controls and depth finders.
Should I choose a full console kit or a single console?
A full kit (like the 1822 or 1422) provides a cohesive mounting system and all necessary hardware. A single console is simpler, easier to install, and better for compact boats with limited space.
How important is color and finish?
Color options help with hull integration and aesthetics. Durable finishes matter for outdoor exposure; poly and powder-coated aluminum resist weathering and maintain appearance longer.
What is the best setup for different boat types?
- RIBs and skiffs: compact consoles with grab rails and cup holders.
- Jon boats: side console kits for flexible cockpit layouts.
- Aluminum/fiberglass boats: solid mounting services with plywood reinforcement enhance stability.
Practical installation considerations
- Verify compatible mounting hardware and control interfaces.
- Check weight distribution and clearance around seating and storage.
- Prepare mounting surfaces to prevent water ingress and vibration.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| RPD 1019 White | Small boats needing a compact helm | Sturdy poly construction | Color choice limited by hull match |
| RPD 1019 OD Green | Color-matching on darker hulls | Durable grip rail and controls | Same footprint as White |
| RPD 1822 Gray | Jon boats and skiffs needing a full kit | Complete side console solution | Assembly may require extra hardware |
| RPD 1422 Gray | Low-profile cockpit setups | Low profile with tough poly | Limited vertical space for high instruments |
| SFriding Mount | Aluminum or fiberglass boats needing a solid mount | Plywood-reinforced for wheel mounting | Mounting surface thickness needed check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these consoles suitable for RIBs? A: Yes, several models are described as compatible with RIBs and small boats, offering compact footprints and robust construction.
Q: Do they include mounting hardware? A: Product listings mention complete kits in some cases, but verify hardware inclusion before purchase.
Q: Will these fit a depth finder or electronics on the top? A: Some kits provide flat tops designed for depth finders; check each item’s mounting surface specifications.
Q: Which color lasts longer outdoors? A: Poly and powder-coated aluminum finishes are designed for outdoor exposure and UV resistance.
Q: Can I mix a kit with a single console? A: Mixing components is possible if mounting patterns and controls are compatible with your boat’s layout.