En route to Round Pond, Maine, to test the Padebco V25R, we were expecting a Downeast-style open day boat with classic lines, custom craftsmanship and fine teak. We were not expecting a time to plane of 3.8 seconds or a hole shot comparable to a ski boat. Powered by a pair of 150 hp Yamaha outboards, the V25R flat-out scoots, hitting 48.2 mph at 6,100 rpm and providing a nimble feel. It boasts the near-plumb bow and sharp entry you’d expect from a lobster-style boat, but the bottom design is more conventional runabout with hard chines and two lifting strakes per side.
The result is a sporty performer that’s up to tube-towing duties and makes quick work of cruddy conditions. The V25R is available with single or twin engines. Padebco cited redundancy and the fact that a single requires cutting about 8 inches off the boat’s keel in front of the motor, which could affect handling, as reasons for preferring twins.
In addition to the bottom design, the V25R’s solid ride can be attributed to the boat’s construction, which consists of solid fiberglass in the bottom, and foam coring in the hull sides and deck. Stringers are fiberglass, and the transom is cored with composite Penske board. The hull-to-deck joint is chemically bonded and mechanically fastened with through-bolts every foot.
Each V25R is built to order, so layouts vary. Our tester featured an aft bench-style seat with removable cushions. Just ahead is a wet bar with a draining cooler that can be replaced by an optional refrigerator. There’s a sink beneath a hinged cover and stowage below. A removable table creates a cozy spot for lunch. Another bench on the forward side of the bar seats three more people. Twin pedestal-mounted helm seats boast large stowage compartments in the bases. The V25R’s helm is finished in faux carbon fiber to decrease glare. There’s space for a chart plotter, and accessory switches and engine controls are in easy reach.
Step down into the cabin and to port is the head and to starboard is a hanging locker with space for the V-berth filler cushion. Our test boat’s teak-trimmed cabin felt salty.
We noted meticulous attention to detail throughout the V25R, including LED lighting and stainless-steel rubbing strakes outboard of the pull-up cleats to protect against abrasion from dock lines — all to be expected. To get an unexpected thrill, shove the throttles forward and hang on.
Comparable Model: Hunt Harrier 25 MKII
