“Topping out at over 40 MPH fully loaded, she is very capable and fun to drive.”
M&Em, Aquasport 25’
Interview with the Captain – Frank Hathaway
About the Boat
Why did you choose to buy a Aquasport?
I grew up around Aquasport boats. My family had a 19 ft Aquasport center console in the 70’s, growing up in Marblehead that I still see on the water today. The design, durability and longevi-ty of these boats drew me to them.
What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this particular model (and how did they compare)?
I looked at and owned many other boat brands. Polar, Tidewater, SeaPro & Release, Larson, Boston Whaler to name a few. The design of the Aquasport 25’, features, ease of trailering, cockpit size, shallow draw and style won me over. It is difficult to find a current model boat with similar features. The closed stern with swim platform is great for swimming and pulling ashore when you like.
How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing (and what’s the boat’s history if you know it)?
I am the second owner, purchasing this boat from a high school friend. It was purchased new at FairWinds Outboards in Marblehead and was taken care of exceptionally when I purchased it and I have been loving it since.
What features/improvements have you added or do you plan to add?
Since owning the boat I have made many improvements. I have reupholstered the interior cushions, mended the vinyl cushions, replaced most of the standard fixtures and bulbs with LED (low draw) lights, added interior lighting, stereo, electronics, stern swim platform lighting and in 2019, re-powered the boat with a Evinrude E-Tec 200 HO (high output) engine with new wiring steering and gauges.
What are the features you like most about your boat?
The feature I like the most is the cockpit space. Very large in cockpit space for a 25’ boat capable of 8 passengers and very comfortable fully loaded. Second to that is its serviceability and the ability to be trailered. Finally, its unique stern puts you right on the water for easy water access. Equipped with a sink and head in the cabin, it is very comfortable and versatile. Topping out at over 40 MPH fully loaded, she is very capable and fun to drive.
Who first introduced you to boating/sailing?
Growing up in Marblehead on Little Harbor I was immersed in boating. My father was my greatest influence. Taking my brother and me fishing for most of our young years, most weekends we were out in the waters around Marblehead, Salem and Beverly fishing for flounder and cod that always ended up with a neighborhood fish fry. We had several boats growing up and I was boating solo around twelve. Fishing with friends, hauling lobster traps with a 10- pot license and swimming around Brown’s island.
Do you belong to a yacht club or other boating/sailing organizations?
We belong to the Boston Yacht Club. Its launch service, boating facilities and dining service is excellent and a great place to relax after a day of boating.
What boats have you previously owned?
The M & Em is boat number ten for me. I have previously owned several Boston Whalers (13 & 17 ft), 21 ft Chapparal, 25 ft Pursuit, a 25 Larson, and a 30 ft Wellcraft with twin engines only to come back down to the 25” Aquasport. The 25 Aquasport suited all my boating needs.
How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
The M & Em can be seen over in Manchester at Sand-Dollar Cove, up in the Gloucester area for lunch in the Annisquam River, throwing a few cast for stripers on the backside of the Neck, down Salem harbor (Lead Mills) pulling water skiers or tubers or just relaxing on the mooring.
What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
The bottom cleaning, painting and the under the water line preparation is just not my favorite things to do each season. Because of its age it needs constant attention with new parts and lots of cleaners & wax.
Do you have any notable boating resources you use?
I do as much as I can but rely on my friends at FairWinds Outboards. Nathanial and Frank take excellent care of my engine and have been long time partners in taking care of my boat. They in-sure each season is issue free.
Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Aquasport like yours?
Keep looking. The original Aquasport designs and manufacturing are excellent. The brand has been relaunched recently and I can’t attest to their quality recently. The designs and features are unique and can hold up for many years if taken care of.
What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
The name M & Em is a combination of my two children Meagan and Emma. The boats name was thought up by my brother Alden and remains the most creative behind, Meagan K, Outdoor Recess and Trisha’s Ring.
Click the gallery below for more photos and information about M&Em! And be sure to check out her IG @Marblehead65
