With nearly a decade of building premium made-to-order boats, Barker Boatworks is launching a third classic fishing vessel.
First to bear the logo of Sarasota, Florida-based Barker Boatworks were sibling “ultimate bay boats” built on the Stepped-Vee Ventilated Tunnel hull created by Michael Peters. The 26 Calibogue is a premium inshore specialist, and the 26 Open offers the same performance and draft without the casting deck, to better serve nearshore and offshore fishing styles.
Most recently, Barker unveiled the massive, powerful 40 HPC, a serious offshore-fishing machine—also on the Peters-designed double-stepped asymmetrical hull.
Barker 40 HPC
The HPC stands for “High-Performance Cat,” and that it is, blending the deft handling of a center-console with the smooth ride of a catamaran.
Standard quad Mercury 300 hp V-8 Verados are overseen by a VesselView 703 and an Optimus 360 joystick with SeaStation GPS. (With quad Mercury Racing 450 outboards, it speeds into the 80 mph range.) Paddle trim control provides fine-tuning in turns.
The hardtop, wrapped with tempered glass, carries Gemlux outriggers. Four JL MV digital amps power 18 speakers, and four subwoofers. Single-row seating is standard at the helm, with optional double-row seating available; the three chairs in front have folding armrests and bolsters. Forward, two lounges top the coffin box.
The 40 HPC has dual side doors with integrated ladders, reserving transom space for fishing.
The cockpit floor contains two 55-gallon livewells, and two in the transom, all four are fed by Hooker Marine sea chests. Cache your catch in four Frigid Rigid fish boxes. Forward storage is generous. The transom contains two 40-quart coolers, and two coolers wait beneath the second row of helm seats. Abaft those seats, a rigging station conceals a grill and sink—besides housing lots of tackle.
Manufacturer’s Remark
We take pride in building the highest quality boats with the utmost attention to detail and customer service.
Performance Data
- Test Power: Quad Mercury Racing 450R
- Test Props: Revolution 4Mercury
- Test Load: 18,000 lb. plus 250 gal.fuel
- Test Speed: 83.8 mph @ 6,350 rpm
- Max Range: 598 mi. @ 49.7 mph, 4,000 rpm
Specs
| LOA: | 40’4″ |
|---|---|
| Beam: | 11’10” |
| Fuel Capacity: | 770 gal. |
| Dry Weight: | 18,000 lb. with power |
| Max HP: | 1,800 |
Editor Says
The 40 HPC is a real head-turner that combines an arsenal of angling amenities with an extensive list of comforts, innovative solutions, and improvements on a number of fronts. The ride is also top-notch, especially in rough water, where this 40-footer really shines. – Alex Suescun, Executive Editor, Salt Water Sportsman
