The long-standing Finnish brand Yamarin, famous for its compact open boats and day cruisers, has taken a radical departure with its newest and largest model yet. In a comprehensive sea trial conducted by Motor Boat & Yachting, the 34-foot Yamarin 80 DC (also referred to as the Aura Cabin) demonstrates how the brand is successfully pivoting into the competitive pilot house market. This boat is five feet longer than anything else previously in the Yamarin range and is the first in their fleet to feature a proper pilot house designed to compete with industry leaders like Axopar and Targa.
A Radical Departure for a Finnish Icon
The Yamarin 80 DC represents a significant shift in design philosophy for the Finnish manufacturer. Measuring approximately 34 feet with a substantial 11-foot beam, the boat’s proportions are generous for a monohull, accounting for about 32% of its overall length. The design follows a classic Nordic style, featuring a step-through bow, symmetrical walkaround decks, and a raised island sunbed on the fordeck. To maximize the interior living space, the designers opted for relatively short cockpit and bow decks, dedicating the bulk of the footprint to the innovative pilot house itself.
Power and Performance Yamaha V6 Muscle
At the transom, the test model was equipped with a pair of Yamaha V6 350s, utilizing a 4.2-liter block. This top-end configuration allows the boat to reach speeds of around 47 knots, with potential for 50 knots depending on propeller testing. For those seeking a slightly more relaxed experience, Yamarin offers 300hp engines (reaching 43-44 knots) or 250hp units, which still deliver a respectable 39-40 knots. Despite the twin-engine setup, the boat retains generous swim platforms on both sides and useful storage for fenders and lines.
The Pilot House A Masterclass in Space Management
The centerpiece of this vessel is the pilot house, which features a massive, structural one-piece windscreen. This double-laminated 18mm screen weighs 150 kilograms and provides exceptional visibility, though the curved corners can cause slight visual distortion. Ventilation is a priority, with wide-opening sliding doors on both sides and an optional opening sunroof.
The interior is highly sociable, featuring a "roving module" that can be positioned to create C-shaped seating or a sunbed. For off-grid capabilities, the high-spec test boat featured a lithium-ion battery bank supported by two 300W solar panels on the roof, allowing for the use of an induction hob and potentially air conditioning without the need for a noisy generator.
Versatile Accommodations for Weekend Cruising
Down below, the Yamarin 80 DC offers surprising volume and clever furniture solutions. The forward lounge can be converted into a sizable double bed in just five or six seconds by simply moving an upholstered block into place. This eliminates the need for storing bulky infill cushions.
The vessel also includes:
- A separate heads compartment: Featuring an electric toilet, vanity unit, and approximately six feet of headroom.
- A mid-cabin: Located in the center of the boat, offering a good scale and ambient lighting, though it lacks natural light.
- Storage: Ample space behind the lounge cushions for linens and personal items.
On the Water Stability Meets Novice Friendly Control
Underway, the boat utilizes a traditional deep-V hull rather than a stepped hull, focusing on reliability and security over outright pace. The 80 DC planes comfortably at relatively low speeds—around 16 knots—and remains stable and "idiot-proof" to drive, a hallmark of the Yamarin brand.
The helm is ergonomically sound, featuring an adjustable wheel, twin 16-inch plotters, and a joystick for easier maneuvering. In terms of efficiency, the boat consumes approximately 3 liters per nautical mile between 25 and 35 knots. With a 700-liter fuel tank, this provides a cruising range of roughly 185 to 190 nautical miles. Ultimately, the Yamarin 80 DC proves to be a versatile platform that successfully blends the brand's driving dynamics with the comforts of a much larger cruiser.
Photo: Screenshot/Motor Boat & Yachting
