AQUA MARINA ATLAS 12’0 TEST REVIEW 2024
www.aquamarina.com
Verdict
The Aqua Marina Atlas stands out as a sizable and versatile iSUP, perfect for a range of activities from leisurely coastal cruises to SUP yoga. Boasting a broad and stable design, it is especially suitable for larger paddlers, schools, or those who often bring a companion, be that a child or a pet. Its construction is robust, featuring a double-walled dropstitch core and an ultra-elastic RED strap cargo system, ensuring both durability and practicality. With accessories like a carbon hybrid paddle and anti-drag leash, it promises performance and ease of use. Ideal for beginners or SUP centres, the Atlas offers a balanced mix of stability, manoeuvrability, and comfort at a competitive price, making it a good choice for a wide audience.
Overview
The Atlas is a big board; maybe the most voluminous we’ve tested outside of the tandem category. However, its 398 litres is cleverly distributed along most of its length thanks to the long, parallel rails. The nose and tail carry plenty of width too giving a pleasing extended all-rounder outline.
This board carries Aqua Marina’s design flair: the ultra-elastic RED strap cargo system, sand-ripple effect EVA deckpad with a solid tail kick, slide-in touring fin, carbon hybrid paddle, pump and leash all in the compact Circupack backpack.
The Atlas is built as strong as its namesake with a double-walled dropstitch core and two PVC rail layers reinforced with a further encircling rail band.
Brand Claim
“Our most popular all-around advanced Series. Perfect for paddlers of all skill levels, these boards are ready to take on all water types for a truly all-around experience.
Equipped with our latest RED STRAP™ bungee system, carry more cargo with ease and safety under its ultra-elasticity. Our patented Swift Attach Fin System (SAFS™) ensures you can get setup without fuss and the new tail kick pad makes it easy to manoeuvre turns. Meanwhile, awesome accessories such as a carbon and fibreglass hybrid paddle and anti-drag coil leash offer unparalleled performance!”
Performance
The Aqua Marina Atlas, measuring 12 feet and 34”, is a dependable iSUP that’s about as stable as your kitchen floor. It is ideal for extended leisurely cruises along the coast or long days on wide, lowland rivers. The parallel rails and reduced nose-rocker restore some glide to this gentle giant that is built for comfort rather than speed.
Despite its size, the Atlas demonstrates good manoeuvrability and steadiness, suitable for beginners or anyone seeking a relaxed paddling experience. We think it would especially suit bigger paddlers, schools who want some larger boards, and anyone who wants to take their kid or dog with them on a regular basis.
The Atlas comes fully equipped for immediate use and along with the applications above, is versatile enough for SUP yoga, using as a photography platform, or outings with a friend. Overall, the Aqua Marina Atlas is a reliable, keenly priced iSUP, well-suited for those new to the sport or centres looking for a sturdy, enjoyable board.
Vital Stats
Price: £425
Length: 12’
Width: 34”
Thickness: 6”
Volume: 398 litres
Fin: Slide-in centre fin