The Barker 26 Calibogue Bay and 26 Open, both custom-built to order, were created by renowned naval architect Michael Peters. These models are based on Peters’ patented Stepped Vee Ventilated Tunnel hull design.
The company says that this hull has one of the lowest drag coefficients of any monohull in the world, producing increased speed, better handling, better fuel economy, and a smoother ride than conventional step-hulls.
These two breakout models were joined later by the Barker 40 HPC (High Performance Cat) twin-hull boat.
Created more than a dozen years ago with the goal of building the world’s best boats, Barker has built a reputation for best in class yacht-quality fit-and-finish.
Sarasota, Florida-based Barker Boatworks is now part of Strike Force 7, which also includes Canyon Bay BoatWorks and Perry Composite Manufacturing, builders of fiberglass and carbon-fiber boats.
Barker 26 Open
Like its stablemate the Barker 26 Calibogue Bay, the 26 Open has become an instant classic.
A hybrid bay/offshore boat, the 26 Open traded the Calibogue’s fly-fishing-style casting decks for a deeper cockpit with maximum open space for seeking, fighting, and boating big fish on both offshore and inshore waters.
The wide helm is tended by a leaning post with a guide helm seat with storage beneath; twin teak-back helm chairs are among options. The tackle station houses a generous window-topped 45-gallon livewell.
Standard is a Key West hardtop with rear support legs for extra strength and 11 rocket-launcher rod holders. A sunroof or fully equipped half-tower with a second station is optional.
A 15-gallon livewell in the bow is matched by one in the transom, which also houses a 15-gallon transom cooler. Macerated, insulated fish boxes of 140 and 50 gallons each reside under the forward deck.
Also standard aboard the Barker 26 Open are Garmin electronics, JL Audio, Odyssey AGM batteries, dual fuel fills, and eight Gemlux gunwale rod holders.
A Mercury 350 hp V-10 on a set-back bracket is standard power, along with a Mercury Vessel View 4 display. Twin engines are optional. An 8-foot Power-Pole keeps this boat in place when stalking fish in shallow water. An optional Seakeeper 1 gyrostabilizer reduces up to 95 percent of boat roll.
The 26 Open comes standard as an open fisherman; add optional forward seating for the perfect blend of fishability and family.
Editor’s Note
Based on my experience, I know that the 26 Open represents one of today’s most versatile and well-crafted hybrid boats. With this boat, we were able to run offshore for mahi in the morning, then zoom back in to fish for snook in the afternoon. -Jim Hendricks
Performance Data
- Test Power: Mercury 400 V-10 Verado
- Test Props: REVX 21P
- Test Load: 6,800 lb.
- Test Speed: 56 mph
- Max Range: 180 miles at 40 mph
Specifications
| LOA: | 25’6″ |
| Beam: | 9’3″ |
| Fuel Capacity: | 120 gal. |
| Dry Weight With Power: | 5,800 lb. |
| Max HP: | 500 |
Barker Boatworks – Sarasota, Florida; barkerboatworks.com
