Get to Know the Cobalt Boats CS23

When you look for a boat for relaxing weekends, group outings, or fun on the lake, the Cobalt Boats CS23 comes up for good reason. It measures roughly 23 feet 8 inches long and is 8 feet 6 inches wide, which makes it easy to tow with most full-size vehicles and to fit into most boat storage garages. With room for up to 12 people, the CS23 is built to bring friends and family along without feeling crowded. The hull is a deep-V design. This means the front and bottom of the boat are shaped to handle choppy water with less bouncing and more smoothness. The CS23 usually weighs around 3,700 pounds without gear or people, so it feels stable, anchors easily, and moves well at different speeds.

The CS23 is designed for people who want a boat that feels roomy, but is still easy to drive and manage. It gives you a clean look, a modern dashboard, and uses high-quality materials so it feels durable. The boat sits well in the water whether you’re stopped for swimming or running at higher speeds for tubing. There’s a three-step swim ladder built into the back swim platform that makes getting in and out of the water quick and simple, even for kids or anyone who’d rather avoid climbing. The extended swim platform itself sits low to the water, almost like a dock, adding safety and convenience.

Measurements and Physical Details

• Length overall: 23’ 8”
• Width (beam): 8’ 6”
• Depth at bow: About 36”
• Draft (how deep it sits in water): Around 36”
• Weight (dry): 3,700 lbs (may change based on equipment)
• Max passenger capacity: 12 persons
• Fuel tank size: About 52 gallons

These numbers mean the CS23 can do almost any job you’d want from a family or day boat, including towing tubes, wakeboards, or just cruising with a group. The boat suits large lakes, bays, and protected coastal waterways, handling enough variety for most users.

Comfort Features and Cabin Layout

One big advantage of the CS23 is how much comfort is built into the open cockpit and seating areas. The seats use thick foam padding that comes in multiple density levels, so it feels soft where you sit and firm enough for support underneath. The upholstery is made with marine-grade vinyl to resist stains, salt, mildew, and UV rays. This helps the boat look good over the years, even with heavy weekend use or guests jumping on and off all day.

You’ll find snap-in flooring which is easy to remove and wash after days with sandy feet or after accidental spills. The flooring design also adds grip underfoot, so people feel sure-footed even if there’s water splashed around. Each section of the boat has cup holders—these are usually stainless steel and won’t rust, even if drinks spill near them. There is also side storage in the gunnels for keys, sunscreen, or small electronics, designed so they don’t roll around or drop into the bilge.

Seating and Layout Details

• Bow seating: Extra thick cushions, armrests, and room for adults to stretch out diagonally. Bow seats open for storage.
• Cockpit lounge: L-shaped cushions create a wraparound feel and are perfect for group conversations, dining, or relaxing.
• Helm and passenger seats: Both have flip-up bolsters, which let you sit higher when driving or tuck down for relaxed cruising. Both spin and move on sliders, so you can adjust your position for best comfort.
• Sun pad at the rear: Large enough for two adults, with prop-up backrest to face forward or aft.
• Walk-through transom: Door keeps pets or kids safe but swings easily for climbing out to the swim platform.
• Under-seat storage: Almost every seat lifts to reveal deep storage for towels, water toys, or personal items.

Quick Views on Comfort

• Back seats curve around the sides, adding back comfort on longer rides.
• Plenty of foot room underneath seats for people of all heights.
• Removable cooler fits under a seat and is easy to pull out for lunch onshore.
• Bow filler cushions can create a full sun lounge in the front.
• LED interior lights add mood and visibility for night rides.

Easy Use and Technology

The CS23 doesn’t just look good; it’s built to be simple to control even for less experienced boaters. The main dash uses a clean layout, with digital and analog displays. The most common version uses a glass dash—a panel screen that combines speed, RPM, depth, trim, and fuel levels all on one view. The depth gauge updates in real-time, so you don’t run aground in shallow water. Switches and controls use rocker designs, and are labeled with text back-lighting, making them easy to see day or night.

The steering wheel is adjustable both for tilt and telescopic changes—great if you switch drivers often during the day. It’s padded and fits naturally into the hand so you don’t get wrist strain after a long afternoon. The helm seat is wide enough for larger adults and has extra side bolsters for support.

Bluetooth® audio lets you pair your phone instantly—no cables needed. Four or six speakers are spaced around the cockpit, and the stereo is satellite radio ready. USB ports are located in the dash and secondary cubby, so everyone’s phone or tablet stays charged. The bow and cockpit can have separate speaker volume zones.

Engine diagnostics display instantly if there’s an issue, so you don’t have to guess about maintenance.

Simple Details That Matter

• Glove box protects phones and wallets with waterproof lining.
• Built-in trash can is hidden under a seat, keeping decks tidy.
• Bimini top is standard—one hand to open and it clicks in place for shade.
• Removable table mounts in two locations—bow or aft—for snacks or lunch.

Performance: How the CS23 Drives on Water

For a lot of boaters, power and handling is just as important as looks or layout. The CS23 is usually set up with a Volvo Penta or MerCruiser engine, ranging from 240 to 280 horsepower, or optionally up to 350 horsepower. Most CS23s on the market use the Volvo Penta V6-280. This engine is quiet and gets the boat moving fast enough for almost any activity, from tubing to simply moving across open water to reach different parts of a lake or river.

The hull’s deep-V design helps the boat “cut” through choppy water rather than bouncing over the top, which is what you get with a flat-bottom boat. This makes rides smoother, especially with a group onboard or while towing tubes. The propeller is stern-drive (sometimes called inboard-outboard)—so it can be trimmed up or down depending on speed and load, helping optimize both fuel use and ride feel.

• Planing time: The CS23 gets on plane (lifts up and rides on top of the water) quickly—often under 5 seconds—even when loaded with several passengers.
• Top speed: Around 40 mph for most common engine packages, up to about 48 mph with the largest engine. If you enjoy tubing, waterskiing, or cruising, this is plenty of speed.
• Cruising speed: 25–35 mph is comfortable, quiet, and stable.
• Fuel efficiency: With an average running speed, you can expect hours of enjoyment from a single tank.
• Turning: The hull is designed so you can make tight turns with steady, predictable handling—meaning less leaning and more comfort for passengers.

Safety Features Built-In

Having fun on the water also means making sure everyone is protected. The Cobalt CS23 features a range of safety supports you’ll use day after day:

• Automatic bilge pump: Engages if any water enters the hull, keeping the inside dry with no action needed.
• High freeboard: The sides of the boat are high enough to keep splash and accidental falls to a minimum.
• Pop-up cleats: Won’t snag clothing or lines, but are easy to tie off at docks.
• Navigation lights and anchor light: For low-light operation or anchoring at dusk.
• Horn and fire extinguisher: Standard for U.S. Coast Guard requirements.
• Padded grab rails: Placed around the bow and cockpit to keep everyone steady if the water gets rough.
• Wide walkways: Designed so you can move from bow to cockpit and swim deck without tripping or squeezing by others.
• Anchor locker: Up front for easy anchoring when you find a good place to stop.

Tips for Staying Safe

• Always keep life jackets for all guests in the under-seat or in-floor storage.
• The swim platform ladder stows flush so nobody trips. Deploys with pressure and locks after use.
• Wide non-skid surfaces on the swim plat and deck prevent slips.
• The windshield has a solid stainless frame, offering both visibility and protection from wind.

Storage: Keeping Your Gear and Food Handy

Taking a group out always means extra towels, dry clothes, floats, food, and drinks. The CS23 is planned with these extras in mind, so it never feels cluttered:

• Bow storage lockers: Run along both port and starboard sides under the seats, deep enough for duffle bags, inflatables, and emergency kids’ clothes or diapers.
• In-floor ski locker: Stretches between the front seats and back cockpit. Opening is gas-assisted so one hand is enough. Holds wakeboards, kneeboards, or fishing rods.
• Coolers: Two total—one removable in the cockpit and a secondary built-in tub in the bow for easy access to drinks.
• Trash bin: Hidden under the aft seat, keeps trash out of sight.
• Glove box: Has a seal to prevent water intrusion, so wallets and electronics stay dry.
• Side cubbies: Run along the gunnels, perfect for phones and sunglasses.
• Transom locker: At the swim platform—easy reach for water shoes and pool noodles.
• Extra storage under sun pad: Lifts open on hinges for long items or wet gear.

By using every spare pocket of space, the CS23 lets people spread out and keep bags, towels, or gear out of the way.

Family and Group Use

Planning a day out with family or bringing a crew of friends? The CS23 is big enough for a group, but everything is still easy to reach and safe for all ages. Little kids can sit up in the bow with a clear view, while adults relax in the cockpit and sun pad. There is enough seating and cushion coverage for everyone to get comfortable, whether it’s a short trip or an entire afternoon. The walk-through transom and open layout mean guests aren’t stepping on each other.

• Family fun: The swim platform is a favorite feature for children and teens, letting them jump off or use water toys without getting in the way of main traffic on the deck.
• Conversation: In the cockpit lounge, the seating curves around so five or six adults can sit face-to-face and talk. The mounted table offers a spot for snacks, board games, or drinks.
• Shade and sun: The Bimini canopy quickly covers half the cockpit—perfect for anyone who needs shade without making the boat feel closed-in.
• Sun pad: Great for catching rays, resting, or using as a staging spot for life jackets, towels, and swim gear.

Entertainment and Audio Systems

A modern boat day isn’t complete without music. The CS23’s sound system includes four to six speakers throughout the boat, controlled by a Bluetooth head unit at the helm. Anyone can pair their phone in seconds (no special apps needed), and the system is ready for SiriusXM if you want satellite radio.

• Separate zones: Bow and cockpit can be adjusted separately for quieter conversations up front or party music near the swim platform.
• USB and charging: Dual USB charging ports mean everyone can keep their phones charged, so you’re never out of touch.
• Speaker covers: Prevent accidental splashes from causing trouble.

Water Activities and Sports

The CS23 shines for families who want to try a range of activities—tubing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, or pulling a floating mat. The boat’s deep-V hull calmly cuts through waves, making it ideal for pulling tubes and boards behind while keeping the main deck dry and comfortable.

• Tow eye: A ski tow ring is mounted at the stern for strong towlines.
• Swim platform: Low and sturdy, it’s ideal for helping people get gear on or off, and for prepping young kids with life jackets or boards before they hop in the water.
• In-floor storage: Holds wet gear separate from dry seating areas.

Stability is key for boarding and getting back on the boat, and the rear swim ladder and hard surface swim platform provide both. While wake surfing is outside the design for most CS23s, tubing and boarding are easy for beginners and experienced riders.

Everyday Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance doesn’t need to be a hassle. The CS23 uses snap-in carpet or woven flooring that pulls out for cleaning, and all vinyls are stain-resistant so accidental food or drink spills aren’t a problem. Seamless storage means there are fewer cracks for sand and dirt to collect.

• Engine compartment: Opens with gas assist so you can check oil or clean around the motor easily.
• Battery switch: Located under a rear seat, turn off the boat with one hand when not in use.
• Rinse-down: After a day on the water, a simple hose-down of the deck and hull keeps things tidy.
• Service access: Main mechanical parts, like water pumps and batteries, are reachable without crawling or taking out seats.
• Upholstery: Wipes clean with mild soap and water, resists mildew and salt even with weekly usage.
• Drainage: Self-draining decks mean rain or hose water runs out fast.

Transporting and Storing the CS23

Many users want a boat they can tow and store by themselves. At under 24 feet and less than 4,000 pounds dry, the CS23 is towable with most full-size SUVs or trucks. The beam width of 8 feet 6 inches fits standard road rules, so no special permits are needed.

• Trailer fit: Most standard boat trailers for 23–25’ boats work. Swing-away tongues allow for shorter garage storage.
• Ramp launching: One person can launch or retrieve the CS23 with a little practice, thanks to the walk-around bow and open transom area.
• Storage cover: Fitted covers are standard and simple to secure after use. This protects upholstery from sun damage.
• Winterizing: All access ports are reachable for winter shut-downs and prepping for cold weather.

Custom Options and Upgrades

Every owner has different preferences. The CS23 can be customized with options like upgraded sound systems, underwater lights, patterned flooring, tow towers, and upgraded dash displays. Some extra details you may see or select:

• Hull color choices: From classic white and navy to bold reds or metallics.
• Flooring options: Snap-in woven mat or classic marine-grade carpet.
• Tower and racks: Wakeboard towers and racks let you bring more boards without taking up seating.
• Upgraded speakers: Subwoofers and rear-facing swim platform speakers for parties and gatherings at anchor.
• LED underwater lights: For visibility and style at night.
• Windshield upgrades: Tinted or extra-tall glass for more wind protection.

Why People Choose the CS23

A lot of buyers want a boat that is large enough for family and friends but not so big it creates problems on the dock, ramp, or in storage. The CS23 is right in that “just enough” size and provides the flexibility to meet many different needs. Its seating flexibility, reliable engine, easy driving, and swimmer-friendly design check most wish-list boxes for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

Owners often share that what sets the CS23 apart is the extra level of finish—you don’t notice unfinished edges or low-quality materials. Every touch point, from railings to switches to the feel of the floor underfoot, is planned for real use. The number of cupholders, smart lighting, strong handholds, and protected storage are small things, but they add up to a boat you want to keep using season after season.

Comparing the CS23 to Other Boats in Its Class

Within the 22 to 25-foot sport boat class, the CS23 is often praised for having real adult-sized seating up front and in the cockpit, a deep bow design for dry rides, and smoother handling in moderate chop compared to flat-bottom or lighter models. In terms of power, the base 240–280 hp engines perform at or above average, and the hull shape gives you confidence making tight turns or running at full throttle.

When set side-by-side with similar boats, the CS23 tends to offer:

• More storage in the bow and cockpit.
• A swim platform that is lower and larger.
• Better sound insulation in the engine compartment, keeping the main area quieter.
• Thicker vinyl seats and more varied color choices.
• A walk-through transom for safety and direct access to water sports.

How Owners Use Their Boats

Feedback commonly highlights the CS23’s all-day comfort, low maintenance needs, and its friendly deck design. Families with kids use the bow as a play area, while adults take over the cockpit and swim platform. Watersports fans appreciate its quick hole-shot (moving fast from a stop) and predictable speed when pulling tubes.

• Early mornings: Go out for quiet cruises or find a private cove to swim.
• Afternoons: Tubing, wakeboarding, or sunbathing with music.
• Evenings: Dinner at anchor, sunset views, and night rides under cockpit LED lights.

Practical Buying Tips

If you want to buy a CS23, start by checking how much deck space and storage you need. Try sitting in every part—bow, helm, cockpit—to see where your friends and family fit best. Look at how easy it is to reach the swim platform, open storage bins, and access the tow point for tubing. Push padding with your hand and see if it feels thick and springy. Test if the windshield blocks wind while driving.

Request a test run if possible, and notice how the boat accelerates, how it turns at speed, and whether you can talk easily over the engine noise. Check the Bimini for shade and test folding and unfolding it alone. Plug in a phone to the stereo—see how easy it is to play music. Take a look at the battery switch, service points, and bilge—if you plan to do your own maintenance, make sure these are easy to reach.

Bringing the Experience Together

The CS23 doesn’t just offer a ride—it gives you a way to spend quality time, whether that means laid-back floating, high-energy tubing, or just eating snacks and relaxing. Every part is built for regular, real-world use, with enough style to stand out at any dock or marina. If you want a balance of usable space, safe handling, easy cleaning, and performance with friends or family, it’s a hard boat to beat.

When you consider the whole package—modern features, smart storage, strong power, good looks, and daily reliability—the CS23 is a boat you can enjoy without needing to be a boating expert. If you want to see how it fits your routine and wish-list items, the next step is hands-on.

Talk to the Experts

If you want to see the CS23 for yourself, sit in the seats, try the dash, test the switches, and get honest feedback from people who know these boats, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. They focus on helping people like you compare all the details and figure out exactly what will work best for you and your boating crew.

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