North River Offshore SXL Models: The Best Vessels Built to Conquer Big Water and Sportfishing

Port Alberni has long stood as a premier launch point for anglers and ocean explorers heading into the Pacific. At Port Boat House, two of the most trusted vessels for serious saltwater fishing, the 29-foot and 27-foot North River Offshore SXL models, are ready to meet the challenge. Purpose-built for the rugged waters of the West Coast these boats deliver exceptional performance, comfort, and fishability born from real-world experience.

This 29-foot Offshore SXL is a standout not just in size, but in presence. Painted in classic Astro White with a beautifully subtle Marble Stone cabin, this vessel commands attention from dockside to open ocean. Its 9-foot 6-inch beam build gives it a stable and confident ride even in unpredictable seas. With twin YAMAHA 300 horsepower engines and a T25 kicker for fine control, it’s no surprise this boat moves effortlessly at both cruising and trolling speeds. This model was built for long days on the water, and even longer stories at the end of the day.

The deck layout is designed for anglers who expect more. It features a starboard side boarding door for ease of access at the dock. This optional boarding door could be swapped to the port side depending on your fishing style or dock setup. There is also a boarding ladder on the starboard side of the offshore bracket making it simple to get in and out of the boat either in the water or on the trailer. The innovative EZ-4 anchor winch system simplifies anchoring, making it fast and reliable even when solo. One of the highlights is the fully integrated UltraDeck flooring, custom-installed by Port Boat House, which includes dual in-floor fish holds on each side of the rear deck. These can be drained for easy cleanup or aerated for live catch management. An additional large fish box with similar flexibility sits at the rear, all within easy reach of the expansive aft fishing station.

The aft station has been upgraded to allow for flush-mounting of a massive 16-inch screen. Paired with Yamaha’s HelmMaster joystick and autopilot system, full kicker motor integration with iTroll, and optional rear helm controls, this space turns the back deck into a true command center for precision trolling or maneuvering in tight spaces. Add in dual rear deck lights, a convenient raw water washdown, and an 18-gallon freshwater tank with transom access, and it’s easy to see why the Offshore SXL is becoming a go-to choice for serious sportfishers.

Inside the cabin, luxury meets practicality. This model features an 11-foot extended cabin, offering more space for gear, people, and comfort. This cabin layout includes a sink, a pull-out fridge, and three drawers for storage. A Wallas diesel heater keeps things warm on cold mornings, while a solar fan provides passive ventilation when temperatures rise. A private head with an electric flush toilet, a floor drain, and a curtain makes overnight trips more manageable. Seating features twin Shockwave S5 suspension systems for the driver and co-pilot, complemented by Ocean Master high-back helm seats for enhanced comfort during extended runs. The forward dinette converts to a sleeper, perfect for staying out overnight or napping between bites.

On the tech side, this boat is built with forward-thinking infrastructure. It’s pre-wired for a bow thruster, plumbed for both freshwater and blackwater tanks, and can easily accommodate twin 16-inch screens at the main helm, along with a CL5 or CL7 Yamaha display. A VHF radio and optional radar integration complete the navigation suite, providing captains with confidence in low visibility or complex waterways.

While the 29-foot model offers maximum space and performance, the 27-foot Offshore SXL shares many of the same qualities in a slightly more compact footprint. It still boasts a 9-foot 6-inch beam and comes equipped with twin Yamaha 250 horsepower engines and a T25 kicker. The result is a fast, nimble boat that recorded an impressive 55 miles per hour at 6000 RPM during recent sea trials. For those who want big capability in a slightly smaller package, the 27-footer delivers.

Its deck setup mirrors that of its larger sibling: UltraDeck flooring, dual in-floor fish holds, rear fish box, EZ-4 anchor winch, raw and freshwater washdowns, and plenty of rod storage. The 9-foot cabin houses a convertible dinette, private head, and Wallas diesel heater. Like the 29, the aft station comes ready for electronics and includes kicker controls, joystick steering, and full HelmMaster integration.

Both of these vessels are more than just boats; they are tools for serious anglers who also value comfort and reliability. They handle rough weather, haul heavy catches, and offer intelligent design choices that make life on the water safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re chasing salmon along the West Coast, battling halibut in the Pacific Northwest, cruising the coastal waters of the East Coast, or exploring the Great Lakes, the North River Offshore SXL is designed to elevate every outing. With trusted dealers across the country, including Port Boat House, you can customize your vessel to fit your unique fishing style and personal preferences.

Make the most of every season. Visit a dealer near you, step aboard a North River Offshore SXL, and experience the water the way it was meant to be explored, powerfully, comfortably, and with purpose.