The Norwegian shipyard Hydrolift has an eventful past. Founded in 1985 by Egil Ranvig, the company went bankrupt in 2002 and was taken over by designer and entrepreneur Bård Eker, who also rebuilt the brand with his involvement in offshore Class 1 racing. Now the company is once again threatened with bankruptcy, as it was forced to file for insolvency in December 2024 after many difficult years.
René Schönemann from the German dealer T&R Yachthandel GmbH is nevertheless very confident about the future and tells us: "There are now new investors, even some old customers, who are invested in the brand because they have so much confidence in the boats. Bård Eker is also likely to stay with the Hydrolift brand."
Hydrolift models come with a sporty character
So the prospects that it will continue are good. Boats between 22 and 42 feet are currently listed in the X series. However, there are ambitions to develop larger models. The Pro series has already broken the 45-foot barrier. With the E-22, there is also an electrically powered model in the programme. The X 26-S in the test is therefore the shipyard's second smallest boat.
They all have a sporty character, and that is what the brand is known for. This is already evident in the factory specifications for the 8.11 metre long and 2.45 metre narrow construction, where a maximum of twin systems with two 350 outboards may be fitted. A speed potential of over 70 knots is stated. So if you like travelling fast, Hydrolift is the right choice. High performance has its price, and this starts at 153,763 euros for the X 26-S in the basic configuration with a 300 Mercury. However, it can easily be increased with the wide range of optional extras and engine options available.
Layout on board the Hydrolift X 26-S
Visually, the test candidate is an eye-catcher that also emphasises its sportiness formally. Bård Eker himself is of course responsible for the design. This starts with the eye-catching stepped hull made of GRP sandwich laminate with two striking steps. The unusual design also continues on deck, with a passageway running from bow to stern on the port side, which is complemented by the superstructure on the starboard side, creating a striking asymmetry.
A U-shaped upholstered seating area including a folding table is installed aft, but this is very variable and can be converted into other seating and reclining configurations, including a 2.45 x 1.30 metre sun lounger. In front of this are two individual bucket seats for the driver and a front passenger, which can also be used as a standing seat. Suspension is available as an option.
The large console accommodates two multifunction displays, which are easy to read thanks to the ergonomically favourable tilt angle. Propulsion is optionally controlled via a racing control unit with separate throttle and gear lever. There is plenty of space for additional controls and switches. There is also a grab handle, which is complemented by stainless steel tubes around the windscreen. There is no analogue compass, but this can be retrofitted.
The laminated steps on both sides are practical, making it easier to go ashore amidships. Another 1.40 x 1.20 metre sun lounger awaits in the bow. Anchor installations with rope or chain and remote-controlled electric anchor winch are on the options list.
Surprise in the forecastle
There is a surprise in the foredeck, which is only revealed when the cushion is lifted. An L-shaped hatch provides access to a small living area below deck. This is good for overnight stays at the weekend. The V-shaped double berth is 2.10 metres long and measures 1.40 metres in the shoulder area. There is a third emergency berth in the underfloor area, but this is more likely to be used as storage space. The electric toilet installed in the test boat is one of the options. The headroom is 1.45 metres at best.
The comfort on board can be further enhanced with additional options. A bimini top is on the list, as are a refrigerator, a shower with fresh water tank, a small galley with sink and portable gas cooker, a diesel heater and practical fender holders in the sides of the boat.
The motorisation
In terms of safety, the stainless steel railing that runs completely around the hull is worth mentioning. The small bathing platform, which runs around the outboard motor, is also easily accessible thanks to the passageway via two steps. A solid bathing ladder is part of the standard equipment and a stern anchor is available as an option. The engine options cover a wide spectrum, starting with a 250cc engine and extending to a maximum of two 350cc V10 engines. The V8 racing versions from Mercury are also available for single installations with up to 372 kW (500 hp).
The test drive with the Hydrolift X 26-S
A Mercury Verado F300 is bolted to the test boat, which is still one of the more moderate drive versions. Even with this, an extremely fast pace is possible. If you put the lever on the table, you can reach a stable planing speed of 3,300 revolutions at 13.5 knots in six seconds. After a total of 31 seconds, the top speed of 48.6 knots is reached at 5,570 revolutions. Efficient propulsion is possible at 4,000 revolutions with a very sporty 33.2 knots. At this speed, 43.4 litres are delivered to the engine every hour and a range of 227 nautical miles is possible with the 350-litre tank and a 15% reserve.
Fast full circles are mastered with a diameter of three boat lengths and a fairly strong heel. There are no surprises when the steering wheel is turned. Thanks to the high sides and railing, the crew is also well secured, and manoeuvring in the harbour is also possible without the optional bow thruster with 1.5 boat lengths in each direction when sailing forwards and 1.3 boat lengths when sailing astern. The boat reacts directly to manoeuvres and the straight-ahead performance is good. The workmanship and assembly of all components were without any recognisable defects.
Technical data
- CE category: C/8
- Length over everything: 8,11 m
- Width: 2,45 m
- Displacement (ab): 1,900 kg
- Depth: 0,70 m
- Berths: 2+1
- Fuel tank: 350 l
- Water tank: 40 l
- Test motorisation: 1 x Mercury Verado F300 with 221 kW (300 hp)
- Price test boat: from € 153,763
- Distribution test boat: tr-yachthandel.de
Measurement results
Conclusion
Even with the test motorisation, the Hydrolift X 26-S can be moved very quickly. However, those who prefer a fast pace can still improve considerably here. The small cabin with a considerably large double berth and toilet is practical, although not very spacious.
Advantages
Good driving characteristics
Versatile due to overnight accommodation
Disadvantage
Analogue compass missing
