Overview
Sea Born boats are birthed in Blackshear, Georgia, to parent company Composite Research, also maker of Sundance skiffs and Spyder flats boats. Out of decades of boatbuilding experience from that foundation comes the new Sea Born LX26 XLT. This high performance double step hull center console is generously equipped and built solidly with comfortable seating, a high tech helm and plenty of fishing amenities. It’s generously priced making it a solid buy.
Engine
The double step LX26 XLT runs flatter than a V-bottom center-console thanks to the steps, so
V-bottom skippers may find themselves over-trimming at first.
Design
Its double-stepped hull delivers a superb ride, sporty performance and good fuel economy. 50 words about the hull design to cover concepts such as shape, benefits of design, targeted application, benefits and tradeoffs. At 9 feet, 6 inches, it’s one of the beamiest center-consoles we’ve seen, which adds both space and at-rest stability.
Interior and Accessories
The helm’s optional glass cockpit is based on dual 12-inch Simrad Evo3 displays (standard with the XLT package), a full spectrum of sonar, plus digital gauges from the Suzuki engines. Optimus 360 electric power steering with autopilot is optional. . With the standard Llebroc buckets seats with bolsters and armrests, we experienced excellent stand-up comfort, and an easy grip on the wheel and throttle when seated. A -footrest -below adds to the comfort and security. The curved tempered-glass windshield is an outstanding upgrade from acrylic, which is easier to scratch or haze. The hardtop is supported by 3-inch powder-coated tubing. The underside of the hardtop is color-matched to the hull. It looks great and knocks down glare.
Four batteries (in case of a trolling motor) are below the Llebroc seats.
Deck Plan
The LX26 is well-equipped for fishing, with 10 rocket launchers, and six shotgun and six gunwale rod holders. There’s a round 30-gallon livewell in the transom, and a cooler under the transom seat can be plumbed as one, if needed. One half of the bench seat folds open to give generous access to the plumbing and rigging.
Forward seating includes removable lounge backs and seat cushions on the foredeck benches and a console seat with a cooler beneath. Plumb it too, if you’re a bait fanatic.
The Sea Born LX26 is a good-looking and great fisher no matter how you rig it, and the XLT package adds comfort, luxury and a high-tech helm design.
How We Tested
- Engine: Twin Suzuki 250 hp
- Drive/Prop: Mercury Bravo 1 FS 15.25″ x 25″ 4-blade stainless steel
- Gear Ratio: 2.08:1 Fuel Load: 50 gal. Crew Weight: 600 lb.
High Points
- Round corner livewell keeps bait out of corners so it lives longer.
- XLT package includes dual Simrad multifunction displays, VHF, portable toilet, and dual-position bow table.
- Deep, spacious head compartment has convenient access to helm rigging.
Low Points
- Wide beam offers outstanding real estate on the water, but might require an overwide towing permit in some states.
- Wider console would offer more protection to crewmembers when the boat is planing, but it would come at the expense of spacious walkways for fighting fish.
Toughest Competitor
The Sailfish 272 CC ($201,067 with Mercury 200s and digital throttle and shift) is a sleek, rugged boat with a crisp ride. It’s well-equipped for serious fishing with rod holders and powerful livewells, along with family-cruising features.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $137,852 (base with test power) |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 26’6″ |
| Beam: | 9’6″ |
| Draft: | 1’8″ |
| Displacement: | 5,500 lb. (dry without power) |
| Transom Deadrise: | 21 degrees |
| Bridge Clearance: | 8’3″ |
| Max Cabin Headroom: | NA |
| Fuel Capacity: | 135 gal. |
| Max Horsepower: | 500 |
| Available Power: | Twin outboards from Honda, Mercury, Suzuki or Yamaha |
Speed, Efficiency, Operation
Sea Born Boats – Blackshear, Georgia; 912-449-0033; seabornboats.com
