Hake 26 RK Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hake 26 RK began production in 2005, a testament to designer Nick Hake's long-standing vision for accessible cruising. Nick Hake, the founder of Hake Yachts in 1973, developed a strong reputation for his innovative concepts, particularly focusing on sailboats capable of navigating shallow coastal waters. The 26RK embodies this philosophy, featuring a signature retractable keel that dramatically reduces draft from 6.0 feet to a mere 1.25 feet, allowing unparalleled access to coves, anchorages, and waterways often inaccessible to conventional fixed-keel vessels. The design aimed to create a comfortable and easily trailerable 26-footer, evolving from a 25-foot predecessor, with specific design adjustments made to mitigate stern drag when overloaded, thereby improving performance. Hake Yachts, under Nick Hake's guidance, maintained an ethos of solid construction and quality, a tradition that continues even after the company's acquisition by Darrell and Leslie Allen in 2017, with manufacturing now consolidated at the Island Packet facility in Largo, Florida.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 28.42 feet and a waterline length of 24.67 feet, the Hake 26 RK is designed to offer a gratifying sailing experience. Owners report that she sails to weather effectively and performs exceptionally well on a beam reach, while also doing adequately when sailing dead downwind. The boat feels remarkably solid, making its best way with about 10 degrees of heel and remaining entirely stable at 20 degrees, prompting most owners to reduce sail when winds reach 15-17 knots.

The Hake 26 RK's defining feature, its retractable keel, provides the significant advantage of adjustable draft, enhancing its versatility and allowing for exploration of shallow areas. However, the design of its canoe-shaped hull combined with a high-aspect keel means that the boat can be prone to being blown downwind more easily when not actively making way, as the keel loses its hydrodynamic lift. With a theoretical hull speed of 6.66 knots, the Hake 26 RK offers a lively performance for a boat of its size and type.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hake 26 RK is characterized by an open layout, maximizing usable space within its compact dimensions. There are typically no interior bulkheads other than those defining the head compartment, creating a more expansive feel below deck. The design philosophy emphasizes making every inch of space functional, ensuring everything can fit onboard. The cabin features a compact layout, often accented with wood trim, and provides comfortable cushioned seating. While specific details can vary by individual boat and year, typical arrangements include sleeping accommodations for four, a convertible dinette, a functional galley area, and an enclosed head compartment. The boat is noted for being handsome, spacious, and well-built, contributing to a comfortable experience for coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hake 26 RK consistently praise its solid construction and its ability to adjust draft, which provides unparalleled access to shallow waters. Many describe themselves as loving the boat, appreciating its comfort and overall good reputation. The Seaward Squadron, an owner's club formed in 1988, highlights the strong community and enthusiasm surrounding these vessels.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted specific considerations. One recurring point is the boat's windage on blustery days. Additionally, at least one early owner reported issues with the retractable keel mechanism becoming stuck, attributed to either marine growth or mechanical issues, although this appears to be an isolated incident rather than a widespread systemic problem. The canoe-shaped hull and high-aspect keel can also lead to the boat being easily pushed sideways by wind when not under sail, as the keel's lift is dependent on forward motion. Despite these minor points, the Hake 26 RK is widely considered a capable and rewarding sailboat for those seeking a versatile and shallow-draft cruising experience.