First, though, we should set some reasonable expectations. The CC 21 OB is not a center-console boat that’s designed to go for the big ones offshore. It is definitely a coastal boat that will do extremely well in near-shore environments, or on protected lakes and rivers—not out in rough ocean waters. Still, the CC 21 OB has plenty of fishy features that make it a great fishing boat. Conversely, the center-console aspect of this boat does take up a bit more deck space than some potential deck boat buyers may like. But, if this fishing/fun mashup sounds interesting to you, then read on.
The CC 21 OB sits dead in the middle of Hurricane’s new center-console lineup, bookended by 19’ and 23’ models. There’s no mistaking the CC 21 OB as anything but a deck boat on first glance, given away by its high topsides, un-curvy profile, and fairly flat entry. Still, we liked the way the CC 21 OB looked on the water. Though our test craft didn’t have one, we think the optional hard top would look quite smart on this boat. Oh, and as you may have guessed, the “OB” stands for outboard, the only power plant option for this boat.
Stepping aboard aft, the first thing we noticed was a swim platform area with a stowable swim ladder to starboard that should make getting in and out of the water a breeze. It sits a little higher off the water than some boats, but we didn’t consider it so high as to be a problem. A filler panel covers the outboard well to create a larger space and we found a large, waterproof stowage compartment to port with plenty of space for all sorts of gear.
Moving forward, the aft end of the cockpit is punctuated with full-length upholstered bench seating that’s highly transformable in nature. Four removable backrests and seat cushions can be configured in several different ways to create a number of clever seating arrangements. Remove all the cushions and backrests, and you’ve got a sizable casting platform. Reinstall them and you’ve got comfy seating for four. Keep the outboard seatbacks and cushions installed and enjoy twin jump seats. Underneath the center portion of the bench is a livewell, while the outboard under-seat areas provide stowage.
One thing we really liked about the center console is the large amount of real estate on the dash; there’s plenty of room for multifunction displays. On a standard CC 21 OB there’s a pair of engine instrument gauges, but we’d likely opt for a single Yamaha Command Link display to open things up for more electronic fish-finding goodies. Steering wheel and throttle placement are comfortable and all the control switches are placed within easy reach, just above. A leaning post provides helm seating, and there’s room underneath it for a large cooler. And since nature’s call can be an issue with family aboard, Hurricane has engineered in a space under the center console with plenty of room for an optional portable MSD. Not bad for a 21-footer, though we wished Hurricane had provided some ventilation for the space.
