Many people are already familiar with the RIB shipyard Aquaspirit. The three letters RIB stand for "Rigid Inflatable Boat", in other words a rigid inflatable boat. It offers clear advantages over a classic inflatable boat. These include features such as a solid bottom, better buoyancy properties and therefore greater offshore suitability. However, Aquaspirit takes a different approach to the choice of materials than many of its competitors. While glass fibre reinforced plastic (GRP) is often used, the Ukrainian company relies on marine aluminium. The portfolio ranges from the 2.88 metre long S290 to the large S700which we have already presented. The latest addition is the S370GT presented at boot Düsseldorf 2025.
Our test boat was launched in 2021, but is by no means outdated. On the contrary: the design looks modern and timeless. Our test model in particular, with its almost completely black look, appears contemporary and sporty. Only the open-pored deck covering provides a contrast with its light colour. In our opinion, this configuration suits the boat extremely well. Propulsion is provided by a Suzuki outboard engine with 100 hp, which gives the boat maximum motorisation. The smallest option is 60 hp. The engine must be selected as a long shaft version, which is standard in this class.
The test drive with the Aquaspirit S530
This time we start with the most exciting part of the S530, the test drive: after casting off, we stow the fenders. This raises the familiar question: does an inflatable boat need fenders at all? That remains a matter of opinion on this trip too. When stowing them away, however, we notice that there is plenty of storage space. Four small long fenders suitable for the size of the boat can easily be stowed under the seat in the bow. If more space is required, the rear bench seat also offers additional storage space. But more on that later.
We carefully push the throttle lever forwards. The engine increases the speed and the boat accelerates. The tip of the bow rises slightly (about 15 centimetres) and immediately lowers again. The transition from displacement to planing is thus quickly completed. At around 3,000 revolutions per minute, the GPS already indicates 16.8 knots. With an unladen weight of just 360 kg (without engine), the boat is agile and light-footed, just as you would expect and desire. With the 100 hp Suzuki engine and a few extras, we should be around 600-650 kilograms.
We talk to Sascha Mende from Yachtcharter Hooksiel, who is also an Aquaspirit dealer. When asked what he sees the S530 being used for, Mende replies: "In my opinion, it's a boat for everyone. Many customers use it for water rescue - be it the fire brigade, DLRG or as a chase boat for sailing yachts. Boris Herrmann, for example, also has a boat like this. It is also available in a fishing version. So you could call it a real all-rounder." When asked what he likes most, he tells us that the bow of the 530 is higher than that of some competitor products. This is a big point for improving the seaworthiness.
The fun factor increases exponentially
The boat simply doesn't submerge in every wave. We can understand the enthusiasm. The fun factor increases exponentially with increasing acceleration. The fun doesn't end until we reach the 40-knot mark. At 6,100 rpm, we reach a top speed of over 43 knots - a remarkable figure for a 17-foot RIB. The boat remains safe and easy to control at all times. It also mastered our demanding BOOTE test course without any complaints.
In comparison with the S700 and S585Back in the harbour, we take another closer look at the boat. As already mentioned, the foredeck area offers a seat with plenty of storage space. Behind this is the helm station, which is available as either a centre console (CC) or double console (DC). Our test boat is the CC version.
The helm station is equipped with all the important instruments, including a small Raymarine plotter. A small extra seat for one person is installed in front of it. The DC version has one on each side. This version is likely to be more popular as a work boat.
The helmsman sits on a continuous, well-padded bench seat. It extends across the entire width of the boat. The cockpit is lined with open-cell PVC foam, which comes as standard - a welcome feature. When mooring, the welded cleats with the AQS logo catch the eye and make an extremely stable impression. The boat also has an equipment carrier that can be used for water sports.
Conclusion on the Aquaspirit S530
The Aquaspirit S530 is a true all-rounder. Whether as a work boat or simply as a stylish RIB - depending on the version, it can do both. The build quality and sporty handling are two other things that stand out. All in all, a successful boat.
Advantages
Versatile in use
Hoses can be easily replaced
Sporty driving characteristics
Measurement results
Technical data
- CE category: C/7
- Length over everything: 5,33 m
- Width: 2,31 m
- Displacement (without motor): 364 kg
- Draught (bottom drive): 0,70 m
- Clearance height: 1,25 m
- Fuel tank: 610 l
- Max. motorisation: 74 kW (100 hp)
- Test motorisation: Suzuki DF 100 CTX with 74 kW (100 hp)
- Price: from € 23,420
- Distribution test boat: yachtcharter-hooksiel.com
