Comparative test: Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin vs. Axopar 29 Sun Top

The Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin and the Axopar 29 Sun Top are two new models from the Finnish shipyard Axopar, which is known for its versatile and seaworthy motorboats. The Axopars are built by one of the largest boat builders in Europe. The company J. W. Slepsk from Augustów in Poland builds the sports boats under licence. The company also builds sports boats for Quicksilver, Sea Ray and Baylinder, among others. The design and construction supervision of the boats takes place in Finland. The shipyard has been on the market since 2014 and is really shaking things up. The shipyard's range extends from 22-foot to 45-foot boats.

Similarities between the 29er models

Both 29er models are based on the same hull platform and share many technical specifications, but offer different user experiences and comfort features. Let's start with the similarities. The hull shape is the same on both boats. The V-shape of the hull is very pointed at 22 degrees (sharp entry hull). It also has two steps. The step, as it is called in English, is popular with boats designed for speed, as it provides additional buoyancy and reduces water resistance. The step is installed transversely to the hull and thus draws air from the side under the boat. The hydrodynamic buoyancy thus reduces friction in the water, which primarily increases speed but also reduces fuel consumption. The Axopar 29 has two of them. The maximum engine power for both boats is 400 hp. The fuel capacity is also the same at 400 litres. The fuel is stored in aluminium tanks.

All in all, it can be said that the technical data around the hull is the same, and the two are also identical on deck up to the windscreen. The small forward cabin with entrance under the forward sofa is also the same. It has many well thought-out ideas. A pump toilet or even an automatic toilet is installed on board, as is a washbasin. The shipyard has come up with something special for this: It is retractable. The drain is integrated into the bulkhead - a cool gimmick!

The finish is immaculate. Small skylights, indirect and direct lighting provide sufficient light. The small ladder for getting in and out can be folded away. If the area is completely converted into a sunbathing area, two people can spend the night here. With the 29 Sun Top, this is also the only overnight accommodation option. There are others, but we'll come to that later. The XC Cross Cabin is slightly different, as you can also spend the night in the cabin.

Deck layout of the two Axopars

Back on deck. A table can be fitted there. This has two different positions. One for cosy dining, where the table is close to the bench seat but makes it difficult to get through, and a second, aft position. This is ideal when anchoring or in the harbour, as you can walk past the table. With additional upholstery, you can of course also create a sunbathing area. If you want to do without the starboard bench seat, you can deselect it when ordering. However, this also means a loss of storage space. There is a small double sofa in front of the windscreen and at the entrance to the cabin just mentioned.

If you walk aft on the wide gangways of both boats, you will notice a small step in the inner hull. If you are moored alongside a quay wall, this is the best way to get ashore. You can hold on to the roof of the boat - regardless of whether it is the sun-top or cross-cabin version. That sounds simple and easy to understand, but according to shipyard boss Jan-Erik Viitala, this is exactly what Axopar stands for: well thought-out and simple boating. The bathing platforms around the engine are also the same. There are storage compartments to port and starboard and a grill if required.

Axopar XC Cross Cabin and Axopar Sun Top: the differences

Now to the differences between the XC Cross Cabin and the Sun Top: As the name suggests, the XC Cross Cabin has a completely enclosed cabin. This offers protection from the elements and allows passengers to enjoy a comfortable journey even in bad weather or low temperatures. The cabin is well equipped and offers seating for up to five people, a small refrigerator under the driver's seat and a washbasin under the passenger seat. Access to the cab is via large sliding doors on both sides. There is an additional sleeping area at the rear of the cabin. This means that four adults can sleep on the boat without any problems. However, this only applies to the version with aft cabin. The windows can be darkened using curtains. The Cross Cabin is also available as a Wet Bar, Multi Storage or Open Aft version. The last three variants do not have the additional sleeping option. Although it would work, it is not currently planned as such, as we were told when we visited the boat. However, they are already working on it.

The roof is made of waterproof fabric and can be opened. If you open all the doors and also the roof, you have the feeling that you are not standing in a cabin. But even when everything is closed, there is still plenty of space for a 29-foot boat. The 360-degree all-round visibility makes manoeuvring just as easy as the built-in bow thruster. The latter is an extra. The cockpit is similar to that of the Sun Top. Cool feature on both boats: The main switches are located under the helm. This means they are easy to reach and no hatches need to be opened. This is particularly helpful when loading for a weekend trip.

About the Sun Top version: The Sun Top is the open version of the Axopar 29, with an open deck layout that offers more space and freedom. Ideal for sunny days and leisure activities such as water sports. A little tip: If you're looking for ideas on the subject of "What can I hang behind my boat", you'll find them in this magazine from page 48 onwards.

But back to the special features of the Sun Top. Where the XC has its second sleeping area, a large U-shaped sofa is installed here. It can accommodate six people. If you want to sunbathe, the T-top roof can also be opened. The fibreglass cockpit table can be lowered, and an additional cushion creates a large reclining surface. The backrests are pluggable and can be used either as a second row of seats behind the driver's seats or as a rear bench with a view of the outboard motor. The upholstery is well made.

If the U-shaped sofa is not required, the sun-top version is also available in three other versions. You can choose between a wet bar, a huge rear locker or a small cabin. The latter then looks similar to the cabin version. There are then four additional seats behind the driver.

Driving characteristics of both boats

Anyone who has ever driven an Axopar knows what's coming: it simply drives well. The revised hull is said to consume up to 30 per cent less fuel than the previous models. The boats have also become somewhat lighter. On the water, the two boats behave in the same way. Tight bends, the slalom course or even tearing around at high speeds make them good and safe, even at speeds above 30 knots. With a wave height of around 80 centimetres, the 29ers glide comfortably through the waves without rattling or creaking. Only the fabric roof makes a few noises. In conversation, Jan-Erik can even tell us exactly where the problem lies and how it is solved on the following boats - exemplary!

Our two test boats were powered by 400 hp Mercury engines. If required, it is also possible to attach two 200 hp engines. This would increase the manoeuvrability somewhat. However, with the 400 hp engine, the log showed us 49.2 knots for the Sun Top and 48.6 knots for the XC. The economic planing speed is around 28.3 knots and 4000 rpm for the Sun Top and 29.2 knots and 3750 rpm for the XC version.

Which Axopar model is suitable for whom?

After a long day on the water off the coast of Mallorca, we can only say that the Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin and the Sun Top are once again well-designed boats from Finland. We didn't notice any negative points either in terms of workmanship or handling. If you are now faced with choosing the right Axopar 29 for you, you should consider what you want to use it for. The cabin version might be more suitable for trips in rough water, in bad weather or as a weekend excursion boat. The Axopar 29 Sun Top is better suited to swimming, wakeboarding or simply as a fun boat for the weekend. After all, you're not really protected from the elements.

But you also need to know that no matter which variant you choose, the boats are fun boats, so if you want to cruise around for several weeks, the next larger models such as the 37 or the 45 could be of interest. The German dealer for Axopar is Boote Polch from Traben-Trarbach on the Moselle.

Technical data: Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin vs. Axopar 29 Sun Top

Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin

• Length: 9,40 m
• Width: 2,98 m
• Depth: 0,9 m
• Test motorisation: 400 HP
• Maximum performance: 1 x 400 hp; 2x 200 hp
• Weight: 2800 kg
• Berths: 2-4
• Tank capacity: 400
• Max. speed: 48.6 kn
• Price: from €134,617 for the XC Cross Cabin with a 300 hp V8 Mercury

Advantages

• + More protection from wind and waves
• + Space for four people to stay overnight
• + Suitable for longer excursions

Axopar 29 Sun Top

• Length: 9,40 m
• Width: 2,98 m
• Depth: 0,9 m
• Test motorisation: 400 HP
• Maximum performance: 1 x 400 hp; 2x 200 hp
• Weight: 2800 kg
• Berths: 2-4
• Tank capacity: 400
• Max. speed: 49.2 kn
• Price: from 131 717€ for the Sun Top with a 300 hp V8 Mercury

Advantages

• + Plenty of space to sit thanks to large U-shaped sofa
• + Direct access to the water
• + Ideal for sunny and warm days

Measurement results

Axopar 29 XC Cross Cabin

Axopar 29 Sun Top

Conclusion

Both versions of the Axopar 29 are super successful boats in the 30-foot class. Regardless of which model you choose, both 29ers offer great workmanship, good and above all safe handling characteristics. Practical details and cool gimmicks round off the boating experience, not just for beginners and intermediates.