Aluminium RIBs are no longer exotic. What used to be used almost exclusively by the authorities, military or rescue services has now also established itself in the leisure fleet - the boats are robust, durable, virtually indestructible and easy to maintain. But how much comfort and fun can be packed into a boat just 4.50 metres long? The Aquaspirit S450 aims to answer this question. The fully welded hull has a double floor. The angular design is functional, while the dark grey colour underlines the functional look. At first glance, the S450 looks like a work or lifeboat. However, if you take a closer look, you quickly realise that someone has put some thought into it. Practical storage space solutions, neat welded seams and a variable layout show that functionality can also bring charm and comfort.
Sophisticated layout
Our test begins at Boats & More in Altrip on the Rhine. Dealer Alex Solz sells the Ukrainian inflatable boats in southern Germany. Even on the trailer, the bow step catches the eye. It sits securely on the tube, offers a generous step surface and makes it much easier to get on from the jetty. Practical: the shipyard has integrated a cleat right here - no more fumbling around with lines on the tube and lugs.
When you step onto the boat, the first thing you see is the foredeck locker. It offers space for anchors, fenders or smaller items of luggage. Clever: the storage space is ventilated with two air inlets, a detail that prevents corrosion and musty storage goods. The surface can also be used as a seat with the cushion in place. For two children, it is sufficient if you sit a little together (45 x 69 centimetres). However, the flap can only be opened fully if the cushion is completely detached from the lid.
Opposite, at the front of the steering position, there is another seat with a storage compartment underneath. A six-pack of water fits in here. A sunbathing area can be created between the two. Although it is not particularly large, it is sufficient for one person to sunbathe. The floor is covered with an anti-slip film. Visually appealing and functional, whether dry or wet. If you want to crane the boat, there are also lifting eyes available. Each eyelet is welded and constructed in such a way that it could hold the weight of the boat on its own. They are therefore more than adequately dimensioned.
Driving position and rear
The console is simple but well thought out: large windscreen, neatly mounted throttle lever, clearly arranged instruments. Just the way you want it. A solid grab rail runs around the windscreen. The driver sits on a padded bench. The five centimetre thick cushions offer good support, and there is also enough space for longer legs. There is additional storage space under the bench, although this is shared with the twelve-volt battery. In terms of dimensions, this means: 50 x 44 x 36 centimetres are left for personal items.
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A water ski bracket is mounted in the stern next to the motor. Our test boat has the stable version, which is screwed and countered directly into the hull with twelve M8 bolts. Alternatively, there is a lighter version with threads in the aluminium, which is more suitable for protecting the motor. If you plan to pull something more often and engage in water sports, you should opt for the stable version.
Speaking of tractive power: up to 75 hp can be applied to the rear. In order to absorb the forces, wood is installed between the aluminium walls. This makes the transom stiffer. Our test boat was equipped with a 60 hp Suzuki. The installed propeller was 3 x 11" x 17".
The test drive with the Aquaspirit S450
The test conditions: light wind, somewhat choppy Rhine water and around five knots of current. After warming up at around 2,000 rpm (consumption 2.8 l/h), we set off on a slalom and tight bends. The S450 is surprisingly stable, turns in directly and remains controllable. Even when changing direction quickly, it hardly loses any grip. We would have expected something different with the flat hull shape.
In the top speed range, however, the picture is different: at high speeds, the small boat begins to rock. This is typical behaviour for very light RIBs. With two people on board or a little extra weight, the handling stabilises noticeably. This could probably be alleviated with a heavier engine, such as the maximum permitted 75 hp unit.
Otherwise, the little Aquaspirit is great fun. The boat accelerates powerfully, runs dry and has a direct, sporty feel. The top speed in the test was 44.4 knots and the fuel consumption was 21.3 litres per hour. The most economical speed is 20.3 knots with around 6.9 litres per hour.
The workmanship and routing of the cables and hoses are commendable. Everything is in its place and there are empty conduits in order to get the power cables to the bilge pump in the intermediate floor in the stern, for example.
Technical data
- CE category: C/6
- Length over everything: 4,42 m
- Width: 2,14 m
- Displacement without motor: 212 kg
- Draught (top drive): 0,20 m
- Clearance height: 1,48 m
- Fuel tank: 42/72 l
- Max. motorisation: 55 kW (75 hp)
- Test motorisation: Suzuki DF 60 with 44 kW (60hp)
- Price: from € 22,890
- Distribution test boat: boatsandmore.com
Measurement results
| Speed rpm | Speed kn | Consumption l/sm | Range sm | Volume dB(A) |
| 1.500 | 4,0 | 0,40 | 89 | 63 |
| 4.000 | 20,3 | 0,34 | 105 | 77 |
| 6.300 | 44,4 | 0,48 | 74 | 94 |
Conclusion
The Aquaspirit S450 is compact, robust and honest. A small aluminium RIB that scores points with its well thought-out layout, clean workmanship and sporty handling. It is agile and stable on the water, only becoming a little lively at full throttle. If you're looking for an easy-care, durable boat, you've come to the right place.
Advantages
Very robust construction
Versatility Light weight
Disadvantage
Driving characteristics at high speed alone
