Webster defines progression as "the act of developing a higher, better or more advanced stage." Albemarle, the North Carolina-based builder known for rugged, over-built, rough-water-capable fish boats, defines progression as constantly meeting the demands of its current and previous owners in the pursuit of building a better boat. Either way, the new 290XF is proof of Albemarle's progression in boatbuilding.

Performance
You don't have to be on the Outer Banks to respect the rough-water capabilities of Albemarle's signature deep-V hull. Conducting sea trials during the Miami boat show can be like drag racing across speed bumps. The day we test-piloted the 290XF proved no exception. In fact, the only thing predictable amongst the chaotic boat wakes was the gentle rise and fall of the Albemarle's proud bow as it punched through each wave.
 
Throughout a series of sharp turns and figure eights, the 290XF banked gracefully albeit aggressively. Taking the sea abeam, the 290's moderate roll moment transitioned with a methodical yet smooth decisiveness. Backing, spinning and producing a gamut of fishy maneuvers, the 290 performed with flawless perfection. I love the handling of small, inboard-powered fish boats — they're the true coupes of the big-game world.
 
I certainly didn't predict the great fuel economy provided by the twin 315 hp, 6LPA-STP2 Yanmars. Pouring on the diesel, the 290XF peaks at 3,800 rpm, pushing 30 knots. A more comfortable 3,500 rpm cruise yields 26 knots while sipping 25 gph between both engines. Albemarle attributes the increased economy and performance directly to the reduced shaft angle afforded by propeller pockets. In response to owners' pleas, Albemarle used in-house engineers to redesign the new pocketed hull for reduced draft. With the addition of the pockets, owners can now travel the shallow creeks, cuts and canals where they commonly berth, without losing the substantial deadrise of Albemarle's ocean-taming deep-V.

Fishing
The brain trust at Albemarle must think like I do — cockpit first. There's no other way a boat under 30 feet could have so much unhindered fishing space. Mid-thigh-height gunwales, cushioned coaming pads and toe space provide comfortable, safe leverage during stand-up tuna battles. Prefer the chair? Albemarle changed the lid on the large in-deck fish box to a side-access style to accommodate one. Even with a big fighting chair mounted, large fish can still slide into the box. A second insulated box in the transom adds to the fish-holding capacity. Large overhanging lips on the upper edge, however, can make pulling big fish back out a bear.
 
What about getting that fish of a lifetime aboard? Albemarle added a swinging transom door to ease the process. A large livewell on the forward bulkhead keeps bait within reach, while numerous tackle drawers keep rigging neat and tidy.
 
The optional tower with helm controls proved to be an attractive and useful addition. On this model, you lower the outriggers from the elevated station.

Design and Construction
Albemarle utilizes vinylester resins in its skin coats to reduce osmotic blistering, all-glass construction below the water line and fiberglass-encapsulated XL marine-grade fir stringers. The topsides feature Baltek coring to reduce weight without compromising strength.
 
The helm includes a clean layout with extra room for mounting today's increasingly larger electronics screens. A pod-style helm with single-lever controls adds to the general aesthetics. A set of small overhead vents face forward to funnel in a cool breeze. Windshield wipers quickly clear any excess spray from the oversized windshield. With a pair of elevated helm chairs, one per side, as well as two bucket seats, there's room for four under the protection of the hardtop and curtains.
 
A day hatch mounted in the floor provides quick access to the engine room below. Albemarle situates the fuel filters appropriately to catch a glance without climbing in. Hydraulic rams controlled by an under-gunwale switch elevate the whole helm deck for complete access. An optional generator sits unobtrusively aft of the engines on the centerline.
 
A designer wood stairway grants access to the saloon. The small galley to port with a sink, refrigerator and microwave provides for the preparation of light meals. Forward, a table with wraparound settee converts to a full berth. A big change from previous models: A set of elevated berths fold down from each side to provide cumulative sleeping arrangements for up to four. Corian counters, faux-teak flooring and padded paneling add to interior appeal, while a flat-screen television and air conditioning are nice additions for overnights.
 
A small head to starboard provides ample sitting room — even for larger individuals. Painted walls and a floor drain make cleanup easy with a quick rinse from the pull-out sink/shower head. And anything that means more time fishing and less time cleaning is my kind of progression.

 
LOA......28 ft. 6 in.
BEAM......10 ft. 9 in.
HULL DRAFT......2 ft. 8 in.
DEADRISE......21 deg.
WEIGHT......12,500 lb.
FUEL......265 gal.
MAX HP......T350 hp diesel IB
MSRP......$229,995

Albemarle Boats / Edenton, North Carolina / 252-482-7600 / www.whaler.com