The search for a reliable and maneuverable fishing or water recreation vessel often leads to the consideration of fiberglass models, and the Aquilon 390 is one of the most discussed options on the Russian market. This model, developed by Novgorod company Aquilon, has proven to be an affordable solution for owners of outboard motors of small and medium power, who want to get more comfort than inflatable PVC analogues offer.
Many aquatic motorists choose this dimensional range, as 3.9 meters is the middle ground between the transportability on the roof of the car and the usable area of the cockpit. Plastic glass case This is a durability that inflatable tubes can not boast of, and the thoughtful geometry of the bottom allows you to feel confident on the wave. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, technical nuances and real-world operating conditions of this popular motobodies.
It should be noted immediately that Aquilon 390 is not just a trough with a transom, it is a full-fledged project taking into account hydrodynamics. Deep keel And zygomatic splashes work together to ensure that they are stable even in lateral winds, and for a newcomer to the world of water-engines, understanding these basic principles will be the key to a safe and enjoyable swim for years to come.
Design features of the body and design
The basis of the boat is a hull made by hand molding technology of fiberglass. reinforced plastic It allows you to create complex contours that are difficult or impossible to get when working with aluminum. The Aquilon 390 has a moderately keeled bottom shape, which is a compromise between softness and stability in the parking lot. The nose is made with a pronounced forehead, which effectively cuts the oncoming wave, reducing the impact load on passengers.
⚠️ Warning: Despite the strength of fiberglass, soft losages must be used when transported on a trailer or roof of a car. Point loads on sharp edges can lead to microcracks in the gelcoat, which over time will require cosmetic repairs.
The boats have a developed beam around the perimeter, which facilitates mooring and protects the board from impacts on the berth or side of another boat. anchor-holeIt's integrated into the structure, so you don't have to drill holes or attach ducks from the outside, and the design of the cockpit is functional, so there's no extra protrusion to get around, and all the parts of the fastener are recessed or covered with plugs.
The color scheme is an important element of the design. Usually the gelcoat is painted in mass, which guarantees the preservation of color even with deep scratches. Standard colors often include white, blue or dark gray, which allows the boat to look aesthetically pleasing without annual painting. Glossy surface Not only is it beautiful, but it also makes it easier to care for, as dirt and stain are easily washed away by a stream of water after fishing.
Technical specifications and dimensions
To know if the Aquilon 390 is right for you, you need to carefully study its passport details: the overall length is exactly 3,900 mm, which allows you to place it on the standard trunks of many passenger cars without special permits. The width of the hull usually varies between 1550-1600 mm, which provides sufficient stability to accommodate two or three people with a load.
Below is a table with the main technical parameters of the model that should be considered when planning the purchase and operation:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Longest length | 3.90 m | Full length down the forestall |
| largest width | 1.55 m m m | Maximum width of the shell |
| Height of board | 0.65 m | Including the height of the transan |
| Load capacity | 400 kg | Taking into account the weight of the crew and the engine |
| Body weight | ~90-100 kg | Depends on the configuration. |
Load capacityThe boat’s displacement allows it to stay afloat even when fully filled with water, thanks to built-in buoyancy blocks, but that doesn’t mean it won’t go underwater through the waterline.
The truncheon of the boat is reinforced by sticking and is designed to install an outboard motor with a capacity of up to 15-20 hp The height of the transan meets the standard of 381 mm (15 inches) or 508 mm (20 inches) depending on the modification, which allows you to install motors with short or long lower unit. When choosing a motor, it is important to consider not only power but also its weight, since a heavy four-stroke engine can significantly change the boat's differentiation.
When calculating your load capacity, always subtract the weight of the full tank (about 25 kg for 25 liters) and the weight of the motor from the total limit of 400 kg. The remaining weight is your real stock for people and equipment.
Cockpit layout and ergonomics
The interior of the Aquilon 390 is designed to meet the needs of anglers and walkers, and the cockpit floor is often corrugated or covered with anti-slip, which is critical for wet deck safety. a deck hatch leading to a sealed compartment, which can be used for storing dry things or as an additional buoyancy capacity.
The sides have harundukas or shelves to accommodate gear, batteries and small equipment, which allows you to keep the center of gravity low, which has a positive effect on stability. The seats in the basic configuration may be absent or be represented by simple banks, but the design of the boards makes it easy to install. soft-seat They are on brackets, turning the boat into a comfortable boat for cruising.
- 🎣 The spacious cockpit allows you to conveniently sit together with fishing rods without interfering with each other.
- 🧳 The presence of nose and stern runduks solves the problem of storing wet equipment.
- ⚓ The ability to install a running awning on the arcs makes the boat suitable for long transitions in any weather.
The ergonomics of the driver's workplace are also thought out: there is space for a dashboard with a fuel tank and ignition key, and often owners install a steering console, which allows remote control of gas and reverse, freeing up their hands, which is especially convenient when trolling or maneuvering quickly if necessary.
Driving and handling
On the water, the Aquilon 390 exhibits keel-like behavior. It holds its course with a steady grip, requiring minimal steering to correct its direction. When it goes into planing with a 9.9-15 hp engine, the boat gets up on the skis pretty quickly, especially when it's loaded properly. Hydrodynamic properties allow to reach speeds up to 30-35 km / h, which is enough to move along the waters of reservoirs and rivers.
⚠️ Warning: When driving at high speeds in strong side winds, the boat may be prone to yaw. Do not make sharp steering turns at full speed to avoid loss of control or overkill.
In the wave, the boat behaves predictably, gently practicing blows. However, it is worth remembering that this is not a seaboat with a high freeboard. Splashing when flowing against the wave is possible, so the presence of a scoop or automatic pump (if designed or installed additionally) will not be superfluous. Angles of keeliness They are chosen to provide a balance between speed and softness, but on a steep wave it is more comfortable to go at an angle to the wave, rather than strictly across.
The secret to a quick plane
For a faster getting on plane with a full load, try to move the load (passengers or battery) slightly closer to the nose at the start, and after entering mode, return back to the plane, which will help to quickly tear the nose from the water.
Controlling at low speeds, such as trolling, depends on the presence and type of motor installed. With a short leg, a boat may be more exposed to wind but better managed in shallow water. A long leg provides better traction and economy, but requires caution at depths of less than 1 meter. In any case, 3.9 meters of length provide sufficient inertia for stable running when trolling even in low winds.
Maintenance and durability of fiberglass
One of the main advantages of the model is the durability of the material: plastic glass is not corrosive, unlike aluminum, and does not rot like wood. However, this does not mean that the boat does not require maintenance at all. Regular freshwater washing after operation in salt water or polluted water bodies is mandatory. gelcoatThe upper decorative layer, over time, can lose its shine or become covered with microcracks (spider web), which requires polishing.
If you have chipped or deep scratches, fiberglass repair is possible at home, using polyester resin and fiberglass, and it's important to clean the damaged area to a clean layer and degrease the surface before you apply the repair compound. Repairability fiberglass is a huge plus, since it is possible to restore the integrity of the board even in the field with a minimum set of tools.
Winter storage of the boat Aquilon 390 does not require special conditions, except dry space or shelter from direct sunlight and precipitation. It is recommended to keep the boat upside down or on special support lobes to avoid deformation of the hull under its own weight for long months. If the boat remains on the water, you need to monitor the condition of antifouling, although this is less important for rivers than for the seas.
☑️ Annual maintenance of fiberglass boat
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
In its class, the Aquilon 390 competes with aluminum models such as Kazanka or Salyut, as well as large-sized PVC boats. The main advantage over aluminum is the absence of noise when hitting the wave and the absence of condensation inside the hull. In front of PVC boats, it wins in glise speed, floor rigidity and the inability to accidentally puncture. However, the weight of the fiberglass body is still higher than that of light PVC models, which makes it difficult to carry manually.
If you think of boating as an investment in a hobby, Aquilon 390 is a smart choice, and it's versatile enough for fishing, hunting and family vacations. Price of ownership This boat is relatively low, given the service life, which, when handled carefully, can take decades, and the market liquidity of used fiberglass boats also remains high due to their reliability.
To sum up, this model is a great choice for those who want to switch from an inflatable boat to a full-fledged hull, but are not willing to overpay for branded boats. It is simple, understandable and maintainable. For most water bodies in Russia and the CIS, its specifications are more than enough for comfortable use throughout the season.
The Aquilon 390 is the optimal balance between cost, comfort and driving performance for 2-3 people, ideal for fishing and recreation on medium water bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum engine to be put on the Aquilon 390?
Officially, the manufacturer recommends engines up to 15 hp However, experienced owners often install engines up to 20-25 hp, provided that the transom is reinforced and the load of the boat allows you to safely plane. Excess power can lead to burrowing of the nose and reduced safety.
Do I need to paint a boat made of fiberglass?
Fiberglass does not require painting to protect against water, because the resin itself is waterproof, paint is only needed for aesthetic purposes or to restore damaged gelcoat, you only need special fiberglass paints and yacht enamel.
How many people are comfortable in the boat?
The most comfortable Aquilon 390 is a full-fitting two-person suite, three adults will fit but be a little cramped and the payload will be almost exhausted, which requires caution in choppy conditions.
How does the boat behave on the wave?
Thanks to the keeled contours, the boat cuts the wave well to 0.5-0.7 meters. On a higher wave, the course becomes tougher, and it is recommended to slow down or change course relative to the wave for comfort and safety.