The Cobalt R8 Outboard: Perfect for Long Island Summers

Cobalt R8 OB

The Cobalt R8 Outboard, available at Strong’s Marine on Long Island, combines luxury craftsmanship, modern outboard power, and thoughtful design—making it a high-performance, saltwater-ready flagship ideal for stylish and practical coastal boating.

Founded in 1968 by Pack St. Clair in Neodesha, Kansas, Cobalt Boats has earned a reputation as a premier American luxury boatbuilder. Known for their meticulous in-house craftsmanship—from hulls to upholstery—and constant innovation (like electric windshields and fold‑down swim platforms), they produce about 2,000 boats annually and one of the lead luxury boat manufacturers in the United States.

In 2017, Malibu Boats acquired Cobalt for approximately $130 million but chose to maintain its distinctive brand and U.S. manufacturing footprint. Their award-winning, sleek yet stable hull designs—noted by J.D. Power and NMMA—combine durability, resale value, and top-tier fit, finish, and customer satisfaction.


The R8 Outboard: Luxury Meets Performance

The R8 OB is Cobalt's newest 27′ flagship, blending stylish lines with modern versatility. At Strong’s, two exciting in-stock models await:

2024 Cobalt R8 OB 

Now available at Strong’s Marine on Long Island, the 2024 R8 OB delivers Cobalt’s signature elegance with intelligent outboard design—featuring a striking Graphite Gray exterior, dual Garmin 8610 glass cockpit, wireless phone charging, electric porcelain head, windlass, and a powerful 400 hp Mercury V10 Verado—all on a dry-weight hull of 6,400 lb with 125‑gallon fuel capacity, deep cockpit, high freeboard, and premium finishes.



2025 Cobalt R8 OB 

Now in stock at Strong’s Marine, the 2025 R8 OB combines jaw-dropping performance with refined design: powered by twin Yamaha F300XSB2 outboards delivering 600 HP, enhanced by intuitive joystick controls for seamless docking . It features a sleek folding arch with rotating sunshade, private head compartment, teak-accented dinette, dual Garmin 8610 glass cockpit displays, wireless phone charging, RGB interior lighting, and a massive swim platform with flip-down step. With its deep cockpit, high freeboard, and saltwater-ready construction, the R8 OB delivers luxury comfort and precision handling—perfect for elevated cruising along Long Island’s coast.



Key highlights include:

  • Higher freeboard and deep cockpit for safety and comfort in choppy coastal waters.

  • Available in single or twin-engine setups

  • Premium amenities such as an electric porcelain head, powered windlass, trim tabs, battery charger, and sacrificial anodes—plus a 10-year hull warranty.

Together, these features ensure a dry ride, generous onboard comfort, and performance that matches the upscale Long Island boating lifestyle.


Strong’s Marine: Long Island’s Trusted Cobalt Dealer

With over 80 years of marine experience, Strong’s Marine is the premier Cobalt Boats dealer across both Suffolk and Nassau Counties. Their partnership with Cobalt ensures access to the latest inventory—including the R8 OB—and award-winning dealer service.

We operate multiple convenient locations (Mattituck, Southampton, Port Washington, Freeport, etc.) and provide:

Strong’s Marine proudly presents Cobalt at premier marine events such as the New York Boat Show, further strengthening our trusted reputation in the industry.

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Why an Outboard Makes Sense on Long Island

Choosing an outboard like the R8 OB brings clear advantages for local boaters:

  1. Shallow Draft, Easy Access
    With a draft of just 18″ (drive up), outboards are ideal for navigating shallow bays, estuaries, and docking near beaches—something Long Island boaters value.

  2. Increased Fuel Efficiency & Power Options
    Modern outboards deliver great fuel economy and are available in twin configurations, providing flexibility for cruise or performance modes.

  3. Maintenance & Service
    Outboards simplify winterizing, offshore servicing, and repairs—especially convenient for seasonal Long Island operations.

  4. Enhanced Cockpit Space & Clean Transom
    Without sterndrive housings, the R8 OB offers more usable cockpit real estate and unobstructed swim platforms—perfect for social outings and watersports.


In Stock at Strong’s Marine Right Now

Both the 2024 R8 OB and the 2025 R8 OB are in stock at Strong’s, ready for viewing and sea trials. The 2025 version offers twin Yamaha power and a comprehensive options package—making it a standout choice for high-performance enthusiasts.

Whether you're drawn to the value of the 2024 or the 2025,The Strong’s sales team can guide you through customization, financing, and seasonal prep.

The Cobalt R8 Outboard combines Cobalt’s legacy of luxury craftsmanship and cutting-edge innovation with the practical advantages of modern outboard propulsion—ideal for Long Island's boating scene. Backed by Strong’s Marine’s expertise and excellent dealer support, the R8 OB is a compelling vessel for cruising, watersports, or coastal living.

Curious about booking a test cruise on the Shinnecock Bay or Peconic Bay? Reach out to Strong’s Marine and take the next step toward owning one of the finest outboard-powered boats on the market.

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About Strong's Marine

Strong's Marine has been a family owned business since 1945. In 2013, Strong's Marine acquired the marina in Mattituck, now known as Strong's Water Club & Resort. Strong's Marine has four locations in Mattituck including the flagship location at Mattituck Bay, Strong's Yacht Center, Strong's Main Road and of course the Strong's Water Club & Resort. You can find Strong's Marine across Long Island at our numerous locations including Port Washington, Freeport, Southampton, Mattituck, and Cutchogue

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