Albin 35 Tournament Express Review

The Albin 35 Tournament Express is a unique offering in the world of sportfishing boats, combining the rugged capability of a fishing vessel with the comfort and amenities typically found in a cruiser. Known for its versatility and durability, the Albin 35 Tournament Express has become a popular choice for anglers who want a boat that can perform equally well on offshore fishing trips and leisurely weekend cruises. In this comprehensive review, we will explore the performance, design, fishing features, and overall value of the Albin 35 Tournament Express, helping you determine if this boat is the right fit for your needs.

Performance and Handling

The performance of the Albin 35 Tournament Express is a major selling point for this model. Powered by a single or twin diesel engines, the boat offers a balanced mix of speed, fuel efficiency, and handling. Most models come equipped with a single Cummins diesel engine that produces between 370 and 450 horsepower, providing enough power to achieve cruising speeds of around 18-22 knots and top speeds in the mid-20s. For those who prefer more power and redundancy, the twin-engine configuration offers enhanced performance and handling, particularly in challenging sea conditions.

One of the standout features of the Albin 35 is its semi-displacement hull design. This hull type provides excellent stability and seakeeping abilities, making the boat capable of handling a variety of sea conditions with confidence. The semi-displacement hull is also known for its fuel efficiency, allowing for extended range and reduced operating costs, which is particularly valuable for long offshore fishing trips or coastal cruising.

The Albin 35 Tournament Express is also designed for easy handling and maneuverability. The boat’s bow thruster, standard in most configurations, makes docking and close-quarters maneuvering a breeze, even for less experienced captains. The boat’s relatively shallow draft also allows for easy access to shallower waters, expanding the range of fishing and cruising locations you can explore.

Design and Comfort

The design of the Albin 35 Tournament Express is a harmonious blend of functionality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for both fishing enthusiasts and cruising aficionados. The boat’s exterior design is characterized by a large, open cockpit that is well-suited for fishing. The cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate multiple anglers, with wide side decks and a sturdy transom that provide easy access to the water. The cockpit also features ample storage space for fishing gear, including rod holders, tackle storage, and an insulated fish box.

Moving forward, the helm area is designed with the captain’s comfort and convenience in mind. The helm station offers excellent visibility, with large windows and a well-organized dashboard that puts all controls and instruments within easy reach. The seating at the helm is comfortable, with adjustable chairs that provide good support for long days on the water. The boat’s hardtop and optional full enclosure offer protection from the elements, allowing for comfortable operation in a variety of weather conditions.

Below deck, the Albin 35 Tournament Express offers a well-appointed cabin that is surprisingly spacious for a boat of its size. The cabin features a large V-berth forward that can comfortably sleep two adults, making it ideal for overnight trips. The dinette area can be converted into an additional berth, allowing the boat to sleep up to four people. The cabin is finished with high-quality materials, including teak and holly flooring, giving it a warm and inviting feel.

The galley is compact but well-equipped, with a refrigerator, microwave, sink, and stove. There is also a fully enclosed head with a marine toilet, sink, and shower, adding to the boat’s comfort and convenience for extended stays on the water. The cabin also offers plenty of storage space, including hanging lockers and under-seat compartments, ensuring that you can keep the living area tidy and organized.

Fishing Features and Capabilities

As its name suggests, the Albin 35 Tournament Express is designed with serious anglers in mind. The boat’s large cockpit is the centerpiece of its fishing capabilities, offering plenty of space for casting, reeling, and fighting fish. The cockpit is equipped with a variety of fishing features that make it a capable platform for both inshore and offshore fishing.

One of the key features of the Albin 35 is its large, insulated fish box, which is big enough to store your catch of the day. The boat also features a transom livewell, which keeps bait fresh and ready for action. The gunnels are lined with rod holders, and additional rod storage is available in the cabin and under the gunnels. The boat’s wide beam provides a stable platform for fishing, even when the water gets rough.

For those who want to customize their fishing setup, the Albin 35 offers a range of optional equipment, including outriggers, downriggers, and a fighting chair. These options allow you to tailor the boat to your specific fishing needs, whether you’re targeting inshore species or heading offshore for big game.

Build Quality and Durability

Albin boats have a reputation for build quality and durability, and the 35 Tournament Express is no exception. The boat is constructed using hand-laid fiberglass, with a solid fiberglass bottom and cored sides, ensuring a strong and durable hull that can withstand the rigors of offshore fishing. The boat’s stringer system is bonded to the hull, providing additional strength and rigidity, while the deck is reinforced with non-skid surfaces that offer good traction, even when wet.

The attention to detail in the construction of the Albin 35 is evident in every aspect of the boat. From the quality of the materials used to the precision of the assembly, Albin’s commitment to excellence is clear. The boat’s hardware, fittings, and fixtures are all designed to last and perform well in the harsh marine environment, ensuring that your investment will provide you with many years of reliable service.

Value and Conclusion

In terms of value for money, the Albin 35 Tournament Express offers a lot for its price point. It’s a boat that delivers on all fronts—performance, comfort, and functionality—making it a wise investment for those who spend a lot of time on the water. While it may not be the fastest boat in its class, its fuel efficiency, durability, and versatility more than make up for it.

In conclusion, the Albin 35 Tournament Express is an excellent choice for boaters who want a versatile and capable vessel that can handle both fishing and cruising with ease. Its powerful engine, stable hull design, and thoughtful features make it a formidable fishing machine, while the comfortable cabin and quality finishes ensure that you can enjoy your time on the water, whether fishing or cruising. If you’re in the market for a boat that offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and durability, the Albin 35 Tournament Express should be at the top of your list.