Boat Cabinets and Drawer Units

Most drawer storage boxes are inset units, meaning they mount in a cutout made in a vertical surface, with most of the box hidden behind the mounting surface. They are suited for every vessel from an offshore center console to a pontoon boat. These storage boxes range from a single slide out drawer gloves box to a six drawer unit complete with a trash can. There are also specially designed units made to hold dog bowls for your four-legged friends. Read More

Inset storage is a great way to capitalize on unused space. Any unused “dead space” can be used, provided it doesn’t impede access you may need to do basic maintenance. There are a few important measurements to consider when you’re looking at the feasibility of inset storage. Not only do these units need length and width, but they need depth as well to provide ample room for the drawers.

Although many drawer-based storage systems are designed to mount inside of a leaning post, console, or other vertical surface, some of them are designed to be freestanding. Typically, freestanding storage units are simply fastened through the box directly to the deck. If possible, through-bolting is desired, but screws can be used if needed. It’s important to seal any penetrations you make in your deck. Moisture seeping through the fasteners and into your coring can cause huge issues down the road with soft spots and delamination. Read More

The Pontoon Tackle Storage Unit with Ruler Countertop is a good example of a freestanding unit. It features 4 rod holders with bungees and can hold 3-3700 Plano tray tackle boxes and 4-3730 Plano tray tackle boxes. The open top has two tray divots that will keep your belongings from rolling off of the top in any sea state. The unit is 39.77” wide and 23.33” deep and 30” tall.

Another freestanding option is the Robalo Free Standing 3 Drawer Plano Tackle Tray Unit. It can contain 12 Plano tackle boxes and still has 3 drawers and an integrated tool holder. The unit is designed specifically for the Robalo 246 Cayman, but, because it is freestanding, it can be installed in many other boats too.

For engine room storage on larger boats, the Engine Room Free Standing Tool Chest provides storage for all of your tools and engine accessories. This unit could also be used on the deck.

Finally, remember that if you can’t find a storage unit that fits your exact needs, you can always have one custom-built. Simply specify your height, width, and depth, and Boat Outfitters can build to your specifications. Boat Outfitters also offers multiple color and locking options.

Boat Storage Drawers can change your boat from a cluttered mess to a well-laid-out fishing and entertaining machine for years to come.

Storage boxes and drawer units can be purchased from numerous big box and specialty online retailers. A few companies, including Boat Outfitters, specialize in boat storage units and offer better quality, a larger selection, and custom fabrication.

King Starboard is widely considered the best material for storage boxes. Not only does it look great and come in a variety of colors, it’ll never rot, delaminate, or deteriorate in the sun. Starboard is also tough, impact-resistant, and easy to keep clean.

Inset storage boxes and drawer units typically require cutting an opening into the mounting surface and then screwing or bolting the frame into place. Freestanding units are attached directly to the deck with screws or bolts. Requirements vary, and Boat Outfitters provides detailed instructions with each unit.