Axopar 28 Cabin Review: A Rugged & Versatile Weekend Cruiser

Axopar likes to stand out from the crowd, and the center console 28 Cabin is no exception. With its stepped hull, sporty lines, and large all-weather enclosed pilothouse, it’s a head-turner for sure. But it’s certainly more than a pretty face. It’s robust and highly capable and was the first model to be designed and launched by its Finnish builders in 2014. It’s able to tackle inclement weather conditions with ease and is cleverly thought-out too, with sleeping possible in the cabin, while an aft cabin option offers even more accommodation for weekend getaways.

Axopar’s line-up goes all the way up to the 45 XC Cross Cabin, but the 28 was the first and remains one of the brand’s most popular models, a gateway from day sportsboat to a versatile weekend cruiser. It’s a true adventurer of a boat, able to “go further and stay out longer” according to Axopar. It’s built with explorers in mind, from the possibility of adding cabin-top racks for bikes, kayaks, and SUP boards, to the innovative fuel-economic hull allowing for longer-range cruising.

The Axopar 28 Cabin is customizable based on its owner’s interests, with the wrap-around deck and spacious aft deck able to incorporate a wet bar, aft bench, or cozy aft cabin with sliding roof. Ultimately this is like nothing else on the market, a rugged and handsome cruiser that just begs for adventures.

Axopar 28 Cabin

Axopar 28 Cabin is a robust and capable weekend cruiser. Axopar photo.

Axopar 28 Cabin Key Features

The Axopar 28 Cabin is ruggedly designed to handle any weather and climate. Far from an only-fun-in-the-sun cruiser, it can comfortably accommodate up to 5 people in its fully enclosed pilothouse, ensuring everyone is protected from the elements. The helm station itself exudes simplicity and functionality, with optional twin 12” plotters, as well as the option for the driver and co-pilot chairs to swivel to face passengers.

Features such as a swim/boarding platform, tough rub rails for added protection, a large sliding canvas roof, and optional toilet offer yet more versatility for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

There is nothing shy about the Axopar 28 Cabin, and there are some very swanky trim packages available, allowing for yet more customization and a very James Bond-style sophistication. The BRABUS Line Trim Package in particular offers elegant choices of interior and exterior trim.

Axopar 28 Cabin is designed for off-the-beaten-path adventures

Axopar 28 Cabin is designed for off-the-beaten-path adventures. Axopar photo.

Axopar 28 Cabin Performance

While its appearance makes it look like a truly mean machine, the Axopar 28 Cabin is surprisingly easy to handle. Its innovative twin-stepped, 22 degree V “sharp entry hull” makes turning a dream, and the narrow, light bow means it rises easily onto the plane. Equipped with a single 300 hp V-8 Mercury Verado, reviewers report it can reach speeds well over 40 knots. Burning 9 to 12 gallons per hour of fuel, the 28 Cabin has an impressive range over 160 nautical miles. Twin 200-hp Mercury V-6s are also an option which have been reported running close to or even over 50 knots.

Axopar 28 Cabin Why Buy It

A fully enclosed pilothouse cabin with seating for up to 5 people
Range of customization options, from modular aft additions to interior and exterior trim
Head-turning good looks that stand out from the crowd
Long-range and fuel-efficient
Double chines on hull which improve stability and add lift
Buying Used? With a wide range of options, check the spec sheet carefully to ensure you’re buying the layout and design for your needs. For other tips when buying used, read our Boat Inspection Checklist

The Axopar 28 Cabin has a simple yet functional dashboard inside a fully enclosed pilothouse