Chesapeake boaters may not yet be familiar with Aquador Boats, but this is by no means a new brand. Next year in fact this Finnish boat builder will celebrate its 30th anniversary. And now we have the first models on the Chesapeake Bay. PropTalk was on-hand in July to welcome the first Aquador Boats to the US with the brand’s exclusive distribution partner, PowerTime. We took an in-depth tour and sea trial of the 250 HT and the 300 HT, and while the two share many similarities, we will be focusing on the brand-new 300 HT for this article.
Aquador prides itself on its ability to maximize usable space and includes an impressive list of standard features, two traits usually reserved for much larger boats. But due to its size, customers can still enjoy the ease of use of a smaller cruiser.
One of the first things you notice is, of course, the hardtop with large overhead skylights. These can be opened for fresh air when sitting at the helm or cockpit, or you can simply pull down the shades if you need added protection from the sun.
Speaking of protection, Aquador is all about embracing the outdoors in comfort, so one of the standout features of this model is the ability to enclose the entire cockpit in a matter of minutes (it took about three-and-a-half minutes during our walkthrough). So, whether there’s simply bad weather or you want to add an extra sleeping area, the cockpit can be transformed into a cabin-like atmosphere thanks to the hardtop and wrap-around canopy.
The cockpit layout has been designed to maximize comfort and practicality. You’ll find a well-equipped galley, an adjustable table surrounded by plenty of seating, large storage lockers and cabinets, and adjustable temperature control options. The dining area can be converted into a large sunbathing platform or an additional berth as we mentioned previously. And 360-degree surround smart lighting, which reduces reflection back into the cockpit, allows owners to dock and maneuver with confidence in darker conditions and unfamiliar locations.
At the helm, you can opt for the Glass-Bridge triple 12-inch monitors. The modern display and controls keep all of the boat’s navigational and systems information in an easily accessible format.
The 300 HT is great as a dayboat or a weekender. Down below, the master cabin is designed to sleep two adults and a child comfortably (either all three in one bed, or by utilizing the mid-berth that extends underneath the cockpit). Ample windows create a bright and airy atmosphere inside with plenty of natural light. Cabinets provide plenty of storage, and there’s also a well-appointed head.
Now let’s talk power options: owners can choose either twin Mercury V6 200s or a stern drive Volvo Penta D4 diesel (the model we tested with PowerTime was rigged with twin Suzuki 200s). Owners who opt for stern drive gain an additional entertaining area on the expansive swim platform, with room for an optional seating area and grill. Even with outboards, the swim platform is spacious and easy to navigate when boarding. During our sea trial, we saw a top speed of 42 knots.
But no matter which power option you choose, the 300 HT performs with remarkable efficiency thanks to its all-new “AquaDynamic” hull that requires less energy to reach cruising speed.
We already mentioned a long list of standard features, and we weren’t exaggerating. Some of the highlights include a bow thruster, EcoTeak decking (made from recycled materials), two solar panels, and more.
But as we’ve said before, the best way to get a feel for any powerboat is to take it for a sea trial. And we recommend doing just that by reaching out to PowerTime if you want to learn more.
By Kaylie Jasinski
Aquador 300 HT Specifications:
LOA: 30.68’
Beam: 10.83’
Displacement (approx.): 9920 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 125 gal.
Water Capacity: 37.5 gal.
Max HP: 320 (stern drive) or 400 (outboard)
Local Dealer: PowerTime in Annapolis, MD, (855) 855-7245