The 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console is a 24-foot offshore fishing boat designed around practicality, durability, and open-deck versatility. With a fiberglass hull, an approximately 8-foot beam, and a center-console layout, it provides 360-degree access around the boat for fishing while retaining enough seating and storage for family cruising.
The 242 Center Console is particularly suited to anglers who want a trailerable boat capable of handling offshore conditions without moving into a significantly larger vessel. Its open cockpit, self-draining deck, fishing equipment, storage, and relatively compact dimensions make it useful for offshore fishing, coastal cruising, and weekend recreational use.
Is the 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console for Sale?
Yes, used 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console boats can still appear on the brokerage market. A current listing in Fort Lauderdale is asking $48,900 for a 2006 example equipped with a Volvo D4 diesel engine, Garmin electronics, Fusion audio equipment, and a tandem-axle galvanized trailer.
Availability is limited compared with newer center consoles, so buyers should evaluate individual boats rather than expect identical specifications. Previous listings also show 2006 examples sold at substantially different prices, reflecting differences in engine configuration, equipment, engine hours, condition, and maintenance history.
2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console Price
The current asking price of one 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console in Fort Lauderdale is $48,900. This particular boat has a Volvo D4 diesel with 511 hours and includes a tandem-axle galvanized trailer, while another 2006 example previously sold for $39,900 with a Volvo D4-260HP engine and Raymarine electronics.
Historical listings also show prices below $40,000, demonstrating how strongly condition and equipment can influence the value of an older 242 Center Console. When evaluating one for purchase, buyers should compare engine hours, propulsion type, electronics, trailer condition, fishing equipment, hull condition, and maintenance records rather than relying on the year alone.
Performance and Propulsion
The Albemarle 242 was designed as an offshore-oriented fishing boat with an emphasis on efficient and practical performance. One documented 2006 example is powered by a single Volvo D4 diesel producing 210 hp through a Volvo dual-prop outdrive, with reported cruising speed of approximately 22.6 knots and maximum speed of approximately 31.3 knots.
The model's Jackshaft Power System was designed to combine performance, fuel efficiency, and a clear cockpit layout. Actual speed and fuel consumption vary according to the engine installed, loading, sea conditions, and hull condition; one current example reports approximately 7 gallons per hour at cruise. Buyers should therefore verify performance during a sea trial rather than rely solely on historical listing specifications.
Exterior Design and Construction
The 242 Center Console uses a fiberglass hull with an approximately 23-foot 7-inch overall length and an 8-foot beam. Its center-console arrangement keeps the deck open around the helm, providing 360-degree fishability and allowing anglers to move easily between the bow, cockpit, and stern while fighting a fish.
The deck is built around practical offshore fishing features, including a self-draining cockpit, non-skid surfaces, stainless-steel bow and stern hardware, raw-water washdown, rod storage, a livewell, fishbox, and tackle storage. A T-top is also found on equipped examples, providing shade and additional space for fishing equipment and electronics.
Interior and Accommodation
Unlike larger cruising yachts, the 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console does not have a conventional enclosed cabin or multi-cabin accommodation layout. Its design instead focuses on maximizing usable exterior space, with the center-console helm, open cockpit, bow area, seating, and storage providing the primary onboard functions.
Comfort is therefore centered on day use rather than overnight cruising. Depending on the individual boat, equipment can include a helm chair with cushions, bow storage, cockpit storage, stereo system, electronics, and other recreational equipment. This makes the 242 better suited to fishing trips, coastal outings, and day cruising than extended onboard living.
What to Check Before Buying a 2006 Albemarle 242 Center Console
Because the boat is now around 20 years old, a professional marine survey and sea trial are strongly recommended before purchase. Inspect the fiberglass hull and deck for structural damage, repairs, moisture intrusion, soft spots, cracks, and previous impact damage, while also checking the transom, stringers, through-hulls, steering system, fuel system, electrical components, bilge pumps, and deck hardware.
The engine and propulsion system deserve particular attention. Check engine hours, service records, cooling and exhaust systems, transmission or outdrive condition, propellers, steering, and evidence of corrosion or previous repairs. If the boat comes with a trailer, inspect its frame, axles, brakes, tires, bearings, lights, and bunks as well. A sea trial should verify starting, acceleration, steering response, vibration, cruising behavior, and the operation of the major onboard systems before making an offer.