Decent looking, very high freeboard which is nice. Looks big for a 26. It seems many are still clinging to the same old graphics on the side we've seen for 30 years now. That boat would look pretty nice with perhaps a solid grey or some other color, no splashy stripes.

Pretty good price point for a new boat like that. At some point, they will have an outboard version as well.

BTW, How does one access the cabin on this 26? I assume something up front lifts up? Looks like the stairs open upward.

Duh... just realized it's probably a slider.

From what I understand, it's a slider and, according to Doug Smith, they've actually just fabricated a new door with integrated cupholders for the boat.

Looks GREAT to me can I get one with outboards ?

Really doesnt matter what everyone on here thinks about the design, fact is they have sold 8 of them. I think that is great and at 75k the common man can afford it, congrats checkmate

Agreed. Lots of boats sell that people biotch about.

It is nice indeed someone thinks about those that don't have top shelf money, and produce a decent boat for them. Most boaters have to start somewhere, which over time, bodes well for all boat makers and the industry.

Bow looks like the old Checkmate and stern resembles the Baja a lot. From the back, looks just like a 25 outlaw. Funny, hopefully they took the best from both and come up with a great ride application. Hopefully they will have a good market for this price point and application given the economy. Good luck guys.

Yes, you will be able to, at least that was the plan when I reported this story, http://speedonthewater.com/in-the-ne...26-footer.html.

I'll follow up on this next week.

Hmmm....I like it!!! Needs twin LS SBC's/Bravo I's as an option (wonder where I got that idea from).

Love the high free board and the square rear transom (I've seen that somewhere recently).

I remember a discussion on OSO about a year ago about there being a demand for a return to the market of a boat like this.

Where did they ever get this idea from....I wonder?...

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...the resemblance is striking...especially on their 27 foot model. Their site advertises a 4000# weight...I assume without power?

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...and orders for 8: new units in the worst economy since the Great Depression? I think they nailed it.

on to something! Rig one of those w/twin 300 XS's and see what you I/O guys think