BLACKFIN 242 DC
Blackfin’s new dual-console series includes this 242 DC and a larger 272. We tested both and found them to live up to the standard of quality for which the Blackfin name is known. We noted that quality in hardware such as the heavy-duty polished stainless-steel hinges and latches. Powder-coating of the windshield frame and hardtop, and other components such as cleats and rub rail, are all made from polished stainless steel.
We felt the durability in the ride. Pressing forward on the electronic Mercury Smart Craft throttles gave a rewarding return in acceleration. With each increased increment, we nudged our heads back in response to the added acceleration. Power steering is super-smooth, and increasingly, we are too spoiled to operate a boat without it. Those features enhance the fun, but when slapping through the choppy Tampa Bay, the 242 DC took it like it was machined from a solid block of titanium steel.
The hatches remained firmly latched and rattle-free. The hardtop stood solid, and thanks to highly flared bows and a tall windshield, we stayed dry in the roughest spot. Not that the windshield ever got wet— it did not. But if it were really sloppy out, by closing the windshield and wind dam, the crew can hunker down confidently in the cockpit for a comfortable ride home.
Bow seating is generous, with deep coamings for security. The portside cockpit lounge is brilliantly designed to fold into a sun lounge, a forward- or aft-facing chaise longue or back-to-back upright seats. The transom seat extends from port gunwale to the starboard transom door, and folds away in a heartbeat.
As comfortable a cruiser as it is, it’s ready to satisfy demanding anglers with four standard gunwale rod holders, undergunwale rod hangers, and a port and starboard pair of rocket launchers in the hardtop. The 24-gallon livewell is covered by an acrylic top and aerated with a powerful 850 gph pump. Raw- and freshwater washdowns are available, and shower faucets are handy in the cockpit galley and the roomy head compartment in the portside console. Keep drinks or bait in the standard rollout Yeti cooler, and ice the catch in macerated port and starboard fish boxes.