Albemarle 25 Express

When you say the word “Downeast,” most folks think of Maine, Hinckley Boats and lobsters.

But there’s another geographic Downeast in North Carolina, where some of the finest sportfishing boats in the world come from. Albemarle of Edenton, North Carolina is located just 75 miles northeast of the very waters that spawned the classic Carolina hull, designed to fish the rugged waters off the North Carolina Capes. The company’s Albemarle 25 Express is built with this mission in mind.

The transom deadrise is an astounding 24 degrees. That means the Albemarle 25 can slice through waves like a knife, while still providing a nice, smooth ride.

Paul Ochs, from Catawba Moorings (catawbamoorings.com; 419-797-4775) says, “The Albemarle 25 offers all of the comfort, protection and quality of a much larger boat in an easily trailerable package. The speed and efficiency of the Yamaha outboards combined with the classic Carolina design make this a perfect boat for tournament fishing, weekend excursions and island hopping with the family.”

At 7,500 pounds, she’s still nimble and speedy. Standard power is supplied by two Yamaha F250 four-stroke outboards, which give the Albemarle 25 a top end of 53.7 mph, with fuel consumption of 44 gph at that speed. A reasonable efficient cruise settles in around 24 mph, where fuel consumption drops to a very tidy 12.4 gph.

On deck, the Albemarle 25 Express is all about fishing. Look around and you’ll find fish lockers, a livewell, tackle stowage areas, salt and freshwater wash-down fixtures, and plenty of rod holders.

Though most folks who own boats with a utilitarian cuddy cabin like this one use the area more for rod and tackle stowage than sleeping, the Albemarle 25’s forward cabin is quite civilized, thanks to a large V-berth with filler cushion and a hanging locker to starboard. There’s also a cleverly disguised head that swivels out from a hidden compartment in the aft bulkhead. A small galley can be fitted as an option.

Carolina genes make the Albemarle 25 Express a great boat for angling the open waters of the Great Lakes, but it also has enough comfort features for a couple to do short weekend cruises. Add in a nearly 400-mile range and you’re off to the races.