1999 Albemarle 280

The 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower is a 28-foot fiberglass express sportfishing boat designed around offshore fishing and practical coastal cruising. The model is known for its substantial construction, spacious cockpit and efficient use of interior space. A 1999 example listed as the Albemarle 28 Express Tower measures 28 feet in length with a 9-foot beam and approximately 9,500 lb dry weight.

The 1999 model year also brought changes to the Express 280 layout, including a revised floor plan and a slightly raised deckhouse intended to improve cabin headroom. The tower-equipped configuration adds an elevated fishing and navigation position, while the express layout keeps the main helm close to the cockpit so the captain can remain involved during fishing operations.

Is the 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower for Sale?

A 1999 Albemarle 28 Express Tower has been publicly listed in Southport, North Carolina, although that particular listing is now marked as sold. The boat was equipped with twin Volvo TAMD41PA diesel engines, a Marlin Tower, Raymarine chartplotter, Raymarine autopilot, Furuno radar and an EPIRB. This provides a useful reference for the equipment and configuration buyers may encounter on a 1999 example.

Because availability of older Albemarle models changes frequently, buyers should check current brokerage listings rather than assuming that a specific 1999 boat remains available. When comparing examples, the presence of a tower, diesel propulsion, updated electronics and recent mechanical work can make a significant difference to the asking price and overall ownership proposition.

1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower Price

The 1999 Albemarle 28 Express Tower referenced above was previously advertised at $39,900. The listing described the boat as having twin Volvo TAMD41PA diesel engines, approximately 350 engine hours, a Marlin Tower and several updated navigation systems.

That figure should not be treated as a fixed market value for every 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower. Older sportfishing boats can vary considerably in value depending on engine hours, condition of the drives and jackshafts, tower structure, electronics, hull condition and maintenance history. A buyer comparing boats should therefore evaluate the complete condition and equipment package rather than focusing only on the asking price.

Performance and Propulsion

The 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Tower example was equipped with twin Volvo TAMD41PA diesel engines, with the listing reporting 200 hp per engine. The engines use a jackshaft configuration, an arrangement specifically highlighted for its combination of diesel power, speed and fuel economy. The boat carries approximately 260 gallons of fuel, giving it a useful fuel capacity for offshore fishing operations.

The relatively compact hull, diesel propulsion and tower configuration make the boat suited to offshore fishing rather than simply short-distance recreational cruising. Buyers should not rely on published performance figures alone, particularly on a 1999 boat. During a sea trial, it is important to check acceleration, cruising RPM, engine temperatures, smoke, vibration, steering, transmission or drive operation and actual fuel consumption.

Exterior Design and Construction

The Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower uses a fiberglass hull and a compact express-sportfisher layout. At 28 feet long with a 9-foot beam and approximately 9,500 lb dry weight, the boat provides a relatively substantial platform for its length. The cockpit is arranged as a working fishing area, with space for fishing equipment, rod storage and other offshore accessories.

The Marlin Tower is one of the defining features of this configuration. The elevated station provides a higher sightline for spotting fish and navigating, while the main helm remains on the deckhouse below. The 1999 redesign also included a slightly raised deckhouse, helping improve the usable cabin space without changing the boat's basic express-fisherman character.

Interior and Accommodation

Although the Albemarle 280 is primarily designed as a fishing boat, the interior provides more than a basic open-cockpit arrangement. The express configuration incorporates a compact cabin below the deckhouse, giving owners a place to rest and store equipment during longer fishing trips. The raised deckhouse introduced for the 1999 model year also helped improve interior headroom.

Accommodation remains practical rather than spacious, so the boat is better suited to short overnight trips and extended fishing days than long-term cruising. Depending on the individual boat and equipment package, buyers may find a compact berth area, galley or storage facilities and a marine head. The condition of the cabin finishes, plumbing, ventilation and electrical systems should be checked carefully on any example that has spent many years in saltwater service.

What to Check Before Buying a 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower

Before purchasing a 1999 Albemarle 280 Express Fisherman With Tower, buyers should arrange a professional marine survey and a detailed mechanical inspection. Particular attention should be paid to the twin Volvo diesel engines, jackshafts, drives, cooling systems, exhaust components, fuel system and electrical installation. Engine hours should be verified where possible against service records, and an oil analysis can provide additional information about the condition of the engines.

The fiberglass hull and deck should also be inspected for moisture intrusion, previous structural repairs, delamination and stress around heavily loaded areas. The aluminum tower deserves special attention, including welds, mounting points, controls, wiring and signs of corrosion. Electronics, radar, autopilot, pumps, fuel tanks, livewell systems and cockpit hardware should be tested individually. A proper sea trial should then confirm that the engines, propulsion system, steering and tower controls perform correctly under load before the buyer proceeds with an offer.