The Aquador 400 HT is the new flagship model from Finnish manufacturer Nimbus. HT stands for hardtop. It has the same features as the other Aquador models. The smaller 300 HT already showed how higher hull sides and a positive stem increase the interior space. This principle can now also be found in the new model.
The Aquador 400 HT is built in Poland
The 400 is built in Poland at the Model Art shipyard, where all smaller Nimbus models such as the C8 and the W11 are also manufactured. Both brands have been part of the Nimbus Group since 2018. The boat builders in Ostróda therefore have experience with high-quality products. The Nimbus models and the new Aquador 400 HT in particular are the best example of this.
The new 400 HT is moored at a jetty on the Eylau lake district. It has unmistakable similarities with its smaller sisters mentioned above. The contrasting white roof with the large equipment carrier, the shipyard logo on the waterline and the S-shaped hull window are just some of the design features that link the current product line.
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Getting started with the Aquador 400 HT
When you step aboard the Aquador 400 HT via the rear platform, you find yourself in front of an L-shaped seating area with table. It can be separated from the saloon by a tarpaulin. The seating area is slightly raised and is protected by the long hardtop. If shade is required, a retractable awning can be used. The passageway to the saloon is on the starboard side.
Interior and functionality
The connection to the parent company Nimbus is evident here: the galley and layout of the Aquador 400 HT are reminiscent of the likewise new Nimbus 495 in some details. A U-shaped sofa with lowerable table makes it possible to create an additional sleeping area for guests or for relaxation. The galley is equipped with a 130-litre refrigerator, an additional refrigerator drawer, a diesel ceramic hob, sufficient storage space and a washbasin. An ice compartment is also optionally available on the equipment list.
Modern control stand
The helm station of the Aquador 400 HT is dominated by a 12-inch chart plotter. The screen area can even be optionally extended to two 16-inch displays. The controls are well positioned and offer convenient control of the boat. The two roof hatches can be opened electrically. They are part of the standard equipment. If you want even more fresh air, you can open a large window to port and starboard. All in all, the steering position is surprisingly large. As the foredeck slopes slightly forwards, visibility is unrestricted, even when planing. But more on that later.
Space and flexibility
Below deck, we are now asking ourselves which category the Aquador 400 HT fits into. Is it a weekender or more of a tourer, i.e. a cruising boat? The layout doesn't give us an answer. On the one hand, it is equipped with three berths for six people, or even eight with the extra berth in the saloon. On the other hand, she is a little too small for that: cooking, relaxing, playing cards and everything else you do on board apart from sailing would always have to be done in the deckhouse and therefore on a platter. There is no real retreat on board to escape the hustle and bustle of the harbour. This fact speaks in favour of a weekender. And its suitability as a tourer? We'll come back to that at the end.
Sleeping comfort and storage space
There is a V-shaped berth for two people in the bow. To get a good night's sleep, however, you have to lie slightly diagonally. The length of the berth is 2.20 metres and the shoulder width is 1.50 metres. Otherwise, the sleeping area is too short at 1.90 metres. A larger bed can be found in each of the two aft cabins of the Aquador 400 HT. Here, 2.0 x 1.50 metres are available - comfortable for two people. Storage space is available in both cabins, as is sufficient light through the hull windows. Curtains are drawn to darken the room; this is a simple but good solution. There are many such gimmicks throughout the boat. Among other things, induction charging surfaces have been installed. Almost every modern smartphone supports this function, saving a lot of cable clutter. The lighting has also been completely modernised with indirect lighting.
Bathroom equipment of the Aquador 400 HT
Of course, the Aquador 400 HT also has a bathroom. The shower is separate from the toilet and washbasin. This means that the whole bathroom doesn't get wet when showering, which in turn means less work when cleaning. Storage space for towels, soap and everything else you need is located under the washbasin.
Deck layout and outdoor area
The deck of the Aquador 400 HT is still missing. As the boat is designed as a walkaround, you can walk past the deckhouse on both sides. The walking deck is covered with eco-teak. There is a sunbathing area with reclining backrests on the foredeck. Perfect for a sundowner in the anchor bay. The anchor required for this is located on a bow roller. It is raised and lowered electrically.
Driving characteristics and performance
For driving: As I said, we tested the number one Aquador 400 HT on a lake. There were no waves or strong winds, but we were able to try out how it reacts to the slightest steering movements and how tightly it can really turn corners. One word best describes the handling characteristics: balanced.
Small steering movements in particular are no problem. Other boats rock much more. It reacts precisely without becoming unstable. The turning circle is 1 to 1.5 boat lengths when stationary. At a speed of 20 knots, it is five. When reversing, the boat stays on track and does not break away. This makes life much easier during manoeuvres.
The Aquador 400 HT has an economical cruising speed of 29.3 knots. The plotter shows a fuel consumption of around 84 litres per hour. With the 700-litre tank minus 15 percent reserve, we reach 207 nautical miles on one tank of fuel. The Aquador is surprisingly quiet during the journey. The values are never higher than 79 dB(A), which reflects the good sound insulation of the two Volvo Penta D4 engines. We drive back and dock using the joystick.
Weekender or tourer?
So, just a weekender or also a tourer? That depends on how many people are on board the Aquador 400 HT. If there are two of you, longer trips are also possible in comfort - or even a summer holiday. A big plus point is the long range. With a larger crew, however, the boat is better suited as a weekender.
Technical data Aquador 400 HT
- CE category B/12
- Overall length 12.10 m
- Width 3.96 m
- Displacement 8,200 kg
- Draught (bottom drive) 1.00 m
- Fuel tank 700 litres
- Holding tank 110 litres
- Motorisation (max.) 2x 257 kW (350 hp)
- Test engine 2x Volvo Penta D4, 235 kW (320 hp)
Measurement results
Test summary Aquador 400 HT
The Aquador 400 HT is a high-quality boat with excellent handling. The successful mix of weekender and touring boat for a small crew offers a refreshing change. The Nordic-style design also impresses with its clear aesthetics. All in all, a very successful boat.
High-quality workmanship
Good reverse travel
Large tank
Slight humming while driving
Price with test engine: from € 583,960
Distribution test boat: bootepolch.de
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
