Blackfin 242

Boat Test #1479

The Blackfin 242 is all new for 2018. The 242 features a nice blend of fishing features with family amenities that make the 242 perfect for serious fishing along with family cruising when the fishing is done.
The 242 is 24 ½ feet long, but rather than the expected 8 ½ foot beam, this center console features an 8’10” beam. The added beam allows for a bigger console, providing for more space for a larger chart plotter and gauges at the helm. The larger console also creates a roomier head section, and a sideways opening hatch to the head makes this section more accessible. Seating in the bow section is abundant, and removable back rests make the 242 even more family friendly. For serious fishing, the 242 features a 24 gallon insulated livewell, plenty of rod holders throughout the boat, large fish lockers under the floor and stainless toe rails in the aft section of the boat. 
The 242 is equipped with a single 300 or 350 hp outboard or, for venturing offshore, you can opt up to twin 150 or 200 hp outboards, in either Mercury or Yamaha. The hull features carbon fiber woven into the fiberglass for added strength.  The transom features 2” thick composite board instead of wood. 
I tested the 242 for Power Boating Canada in the choppy Atlantic Ocean conditions off Boca Raton, Florida. The 242 gave a very solid ride. The test boat featured twin 150 hp Mercury outboards, each swinging a 17” Rev 4 stainless steel prop.  At 4,000 rpm, the 242 hit 28 mph and used 13 gph. The test boat maxed out at 5,700 rpm reaching 44.7 mph and using 28 gph.                                               
By Zenon Bilas