December 31, 2019
By Florida Sportsman Editor
The Ultra Elite Series from Carolina Skiff has been a welcome addition to their line for fans of the Carolina Skiff brand who find themselves ready to step into a more comfortably finished product. The Ultra Elite series offers amenities above and beyond the rest of their line and based on the success of other models ranging in size from 19 to 24 feet this all new 26-foot flagship represents another step up the ladder for this popular brand. A move into this size class clears the way for a host of new activities previously unavailable on the smaller models in this fleet.
Like all Carolina Skiffs, this model is rated to carry an incredible load of passengers, 18 to be exact. While this might not be a practical number of people to entertain, the rating remains a testament to the sea worthiness and stability of this boat. The move into a deck plan of this size allows ample room for entertaining however and the forward deck is configured to be used in a variety of settings. U-shaped forward seating can be arranged as a sit around lounge area with a drop-in oval shaped table and for dining. Lowering or removing the panel provides a full Sun Lounge with a removable cushion set or a casting deck for serious angling. Removable forward facing backrests to port and starboard are included. A forward insulated dry storage box features interior LED lighting and an overboard drain, three flush mount Marine Board lockable lids with Stainless steel gas shocks. A forward deck pedestal base and swivel seat along with 24 volt wiring for a trolling motor are also standard equipment.
The new Flip-Up console with a changing curtain features side access to the console interior which is large enough to accommodate an optional electric flushable head. A large helm panel dash ready for flush mounted electronics comes with a motor matching gauge package and hydraulic steering with a 13-inch Power grip tilt steering wheel. Under gunwale flush to deck LED illuminated rod storage for up to twelve rods is located to port and starboard adjacent to the console. An Ultra Leaning Post with backrest and diamond pleated logo upholstery, (4) flush mount rod holders and (2) Stainless cup holders, fold down footrest, and 100-quart removable cooler are all standard equipment. A molded fiberglass leaning post with a built-in 32-gallon live well is available as an upgrade.
Across the stern, the elevated deck allows a raised vantage point for anglers and provides space for three across fold down rear jump seats, each with storage below including a 20-gallon rear live well with a 750 GPH aerator pump. A second removable pedestal swivel seat with an 11-inch pole is ideal for low key fishing comfort. Adding available upgrade options such as a 6-inch Hydraulic Jackplate, fresh and raw water washdowns, Bluetooth Audio system, and tackle center takes this offering from Carolina Skiff into new territory which existing owners ready for a serious upgrade or anyone new to the brand looking for a multi-venue versatile performer will surely appreciate.
Carolina Skiff 26 Ultra Elite Specifications
Length: 26 feet
Beam: 8 feet
Gunwale height: 21 inches
Weight: 3734 pounds
Maximum persons: 18
Maximum horsepower: 300
Fuel: 78 gallons
Base price: $51,167 w/o power
The single power 300 Suzuki really got this 26-footer moving along smartly and the ride we experienced in the chop was exceptionally comfortable.
The single power 300 Suzuki really got this 26-footer moving along smartly and the ride we experienced in the chop was exceptionally comfortable.
The option of fishing out of forward and aft pedestal seats at first seemed unusual for a boat this size but proved to be a perfect set-up for relaxed inshore fishing activities.
The console placement slightly forward on the 26 Ultra Elite balances the use of space nicely while creating more elbow room in the cockpit.
A powder coated hard top frame with two-tone fiberglass top add style and functionality to boot.
Extending the gunwale cap to full width forward adds both working and lounging space as well as allowing a wider gunwale to walk around on.
Matching forward lounge seats provide a comfortable place to stretch out and relax as well as abundant dry storage options.
A removable pedestal mounted table is convenient for an outdoor picnic lunch.
A forward lifting access hatch into the console reveals more storage area along with an electric head.
An uncluttered helm face ready for electronics is easily viewable under the shade of the hard top.
Located within the fiberglass helm station is a 32-gallon circular livewell to handle offshore bait volume all day.
Three across flip-up jump seats spanning the transom are set between audio speakers and drink holders for everyone.
An additional 20-gallon live well at the transom features 750-GPH flow and combines with the helm station tank for 52-gallons of bait capacity.
These stowaway washdowns are a clever design for storing water hoses out of sight and keep the deck uncluttered.
