New Boats: Draco 22 and 27

This Scandinavian builder’s dual-console day boats have retro good looks and smart design.

By Charlie Levine

August 17, 2020

Draco 22 and 27

The Scandinavian builder brings its dual-console day boats stateside.

With their plumb bow, open transom and chunky rub rails, the Draco line of dual-consoles proudly stands out in a crowded field of day boats under 30 feet.

Long known in their home waters of Scandinavia for producing boats with clean lines that are fun to drive, Draco decided it was time to bring its vessels to the United States. Earlier this summer, Draco officially dipped its toe into U.S. waters with two models, the 22 and the 27.

“We have looked at other models out there and think we have something unique. Something modern, but at the same time something with a little bit of a retro look,” says CEO Trevor Fenlon.

Draco began making boats in the 1960s, building a reputation for well-crafted vessels that are quick-footed and seaworthy. Now owned by Windy Boats, you can see that this builder has a multi-purpose approach to boating. These boats allow you to spend a day at anchor, do a bit of snorkeling, picnic or pull a skier. A standard, fold-out bow ladder makes beaching the boat and boarding a simple affair, while a removable cockpit ski pole is perfect for those who like to give the kids a ride on a tube.

The Draco 27 offers a flexible cockpit for up to six. With its split-windshield layout and bow seating, you can easily entertain family and friends. The captain and co-pilot seats swivel to face a central table that can also be enjoyed while sitting on the aft bench. This bit of bench seating quickly converts to a large sun pad with room for everyone to stretch out. The open transom has two clear gates to close it off and keep passengers secure, but the design really accentuates the boat’s accessibility to the water, especially with the integrated swim step. The helm is utilitarian and unfettered, with room to mount an MFD and wide-open visibility in all directions.

The company embraces the notion that each owner prefers different activities on the water, and it does its best to provide a versatile platform that checks all of the boxes. Options include a cockpit Bimini canopy, sink, fridge, toilet and shower to add another layer of comfort. A forward canopy is also offered, harking back to the company’s Scandinavian roots of cruising in cooler weather. The versatility of this boat and the wide rub rail would make it an ideal tender as well

Fenlon says the company prides itself on building multi-platform boats that make the most use of space. “We do offer some innovation in how seats and things like that function. Where things transform into other things,” he says. “These boats are easy to entertain on and appeal to all boaters, both younger and older, for that reason.”

The Draco 27 is available with a single outboard up to 400 hp, which will push this deep-V hull down the coast at 45-plus knots and cruise all day in the 35-knot range.

Like its big sister, the Draco 22 sports clean lines and a smart use of cockpit space. It too has a fold-down aft bench that converts to a sun pad and a Bimini canopy. The 22 is rated for a single outboard up to 200 hp, delivering top speeds in the 45-knot range. Both models are already available through the company’s sole U.S. dealer in Portland, Maine.

While Fenlon is excited to see how the 22 and the 27 are received in the States, he’s already thinking about the future. He was eager to show me renderings for the next model, a center console complete with a cuddy cabin and head. That model will show up stateside in early 2021.

Windy, and now Draco, have been known in Europe for decades for their smart, Scandinavian approach to boat design. The performance is undeniable, and the simple things like a couch that converts to a chaise lounge with a slight pull from a couple of fingers are much appreciated. I think they’ll feel right at home in the States.