With a length of 8.10 metres, the 26 Open is the smallest model from the Swedish manufacturer Delta Powerboats and therefore also the entry-level model. The Swedes build high-quality motorboats and yachts in sizes 26, 29, 33, 34, 40, 54 and 80 feet. Once again, all models have the same design. Straight lines and symmetrical surfaces dominate the look. At first glance, the 26 Open appears "naked" and sterile.
The Delta 26 Open is approved for a maximum of six people or a payload of up to 760 kilograms.
However, this is due to the fact that the designer has hidden the kitchen block and the railing, or rather not placed them so prominently. The 26 Open is approved for a maximum of six people or a payload of up to 760 kg. The shipyard specifies inland waterways and coastal waters as the sailing area, which corresponds to CE category C.
If the Open is to be transported overland, this is easily possible with a 3500 kg trailer thanks to its 2200 kg unladen weight. The only thing left to mention is that you should not forget to apply for a special permit because of the 2.60 m width to avoid a lengthy unscheduled stop by the police or the BAG.
The Volvo Penta D3 diesel accelerates the boat from displacement to planing speed without any major problems or loss of visibility.
The skipper can choose between a petrol and a diesel engine. Both engines come from Volvo Penta. The D3 (diesel) produces around 220 hp and costs €5100 more than the GXI 5.7 petrol engine with its 320 hp. On both engines, the power is converted into thrust by means of a DPS (Duo Prop System) Z-drive and stainless steel propeller. The owner of our test boat opted for the D3. This accelerates the boat from displacement to planing speed without any major problems or visual impairments.
We determined the lowest gliding speed at 2300 rpm. The most economical glide speed is only 200 rpm higher, at 2500 rpm. When travelling in this way, there is neither rocking nor a "runaway" from the set course. Visibility is also good on all sides.
The fuel consumption is 0.95 l/sm. If you put the lever on the table, the Open reaches a top speed of 37 knots during our test. The fuel consumption of the D3 is then 1.21 l/sm, and the range drops from 178 nm at 2500 rpm to 141 nm. This means that after 3 hours and 51 minutes under full load, refuelling is the order of the day to conserve the 15 % reserve. In the economic range, you can drive non-stop for 8 hours and 30 minutes until the 200 litre tank is empty except for the reserve.
The Volvo Penta D3-220 gives the Delta a top speed of 37 knots. A three-step bathing ladder provides easy access out of the water. Below deck, the Delta has a double berth and a toilet room. The stern bench can be converted into a sunbed and the driver's and co-driver's bench can be folded down to form a kitchen block.
As far as the extreme manoeuvres are concerned, everything is as expected. The hull reacts safely in all situations and implements all steering commands directly. For the rough water test, we used the stern waves of other sports boats and here, too, everything was as expected. The Delta glides smoothly over the waves, whether from the front or the side, the spray water is repelled by the hull at a shallow angle so that you stay dry on board.
Just how versatile the Delta is despite its simple and minimalist design can be seen in the equipment. For example, the U-shaped seating group and rear bench, both of which have firm upholstery and well-stitched covers, can be transformed into a 1.60 m x 1.53 m sun lounger in just a few simple steps.
But that's not all, it's even more sociable on board when you're preparing food. In the 26 Open, all you have to do is fold down the driver and passenger seats. This reveals a stainless steel sink, single-burner hob and a preparation/work surface.
The crockery is stored in a special drawer to protect it from shocks. A compressor refrigerator (standard) complements the low but well-equipped kitchen block. Those who like to retire after a meal or want to sleep end up in the 26 below deck in the very modern cabin. The double berth is located in the bow. There is plenty of storage space below deck.
There is a wardrobe with a rail opposite the toilet room. With a standing height of 1.29 m and a seat height of 0.84 m, the latter is certainly not the most comfortable place on board for tall crew members. However, the lockable door allows you to "go about your business" in peace.
Anyone wondering where the stuff goes should know that the 26 Open is equipped with a 60-litre PVC fresh water tank and a 40-litre stainless steel black water tank. Anyone who wants to have hot water on board is best advised to order the optional hot water boiler (€1160).
We do not find the arrangement of the instruments on the driving position comfortable. As they are installed on the same front surface as the helm, you have to tilt your head down a lot to look at the slightly tilted displays, especially when standing. A small consolation is the large chart holder directly in front of the skipper and the appropriately sized and positioned compass.
The extensive equipment includes a bow thruster, plotter, stern shower and trim tabs. For safety, there is the compass mentioned above, two electric and one manual bilge pump, a fire blanket and a fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment plus two large hand-held fire extinguishers (2 kg).
The latter are stored in the cupboard next to the companionway and together with the ceiling under the aft bench seat. BOOTE's only criticism of the Delta's equipment is the position lights, which are not authorised on all inland waterways in Germany despite their USCG certification.
Our conclusion
The Delta 26 Open is solidly built, as you would expect from Scandinavian boats. Here and there, design has been prioritised over function, which benefits the look. The handling characteristics with the D3 are consistently safe. If you want more speed, you should choose the petrol engine with 320 hp.
Data sheet: Delta 26 Open
Shipyard: Delta Powerboats
Type designation: Delta 26 Open
CE category: C - Coastal waters
Material of hull and deck: Plastic
Length: 8,10 m
Width: 2,60 m
Displacement: 2,20 t
Price: 168.490,00 €
