A New World of Boats

From the Old World

The Axopar 28 Cabin was introduced seven years ago at the Dusseldorf Boat Show and changed the way Europeans look at boating.

In case you haven’t noticed, there is a strong new design trend that is sweeping the boating world — the Axopar look. It has already been embraced by at least six builders in Europe and now one in the U.S.

When we first saw a picture of the 28 Cabin, we thought it was ugly. That was five years ago. Now, our nautical eye has gotten used to the new profile and we have a completely different take. A huge breath of fresh air has descended from Helsinki, Finland, and swept across the Atlantic to the U.S.

The company is building more than 700 boats a year. All are from five basic hull platforms upon which three times the number of models are built. All have the same Axopar DNA exhibited in the company's first model — the Axopar 28 Cabin. The boats are remarkably affordable and could inspire many American consumers to rethink how they approach boats.

We recently visited Axopar co-founder Jan-Erik Viitala in Helsinki, Finland. We got a glimpse into the genesis of the brand and the anatomy of the Axopar 28. More...

New Launch

Sirena Yachts Unveils New 78

Artist renderings of Sirena Yachts’ new 78 have been released by the Turkish builder. The 78 is an 82’ (25 m) flying bridge motoryacht that the company can offer in a variety of layouts to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers. More...

Features Video

Fountaine-Pajot MY4.S

Cruising Cat w/Low Top Hamper

For folks who like numbers, the Fountaine-Pajot MY4.S has 196.98 sq. ft. (18.3 sq. m) of interior living area on the main deck and her owner’s cabin covers 96.88 sq. ft. (9 sq. m). She’s a power catamaran with low bridge clearance that a cruising couple could easily manage while cruising Europe’s canals or completing the Great Loop. More...

Pre-Owned Yacht

2020 Sunseeker Predator 60 Evo

Kia Kaha

If you want to get on the water right away, the 2020 Sunseeker Predator 60 Evo, Kia Kaha, is a turn-key mix of luxury and performance. Powered by twin Volvo Penta D13 900 inboards, she has a maximum speed of 32 knots with a cruise of 23. Below, she accommodations for six in three cabins. More...

Boating Safety

How to Choose a Life Jacket for Your Child

Kids are more likely to agree to do something if they understand why they should and if they feel like they are part of the decision. This video goes beyond why kids should wear a life jacket. It explains how to help them understand why and how to include them in the buying process. More...

Captain's Report

Ocean Alexander 45 Divergence Coupe

Pick Your Season

The Ocean Alexander 45 Divergence Coupe is an all-season cruiser. She has an enclosed helm deck that includes a dinette and she can sleep four belowdecks. In good weather, bulwarks open to expand the cockpit. Trim up the outboards and pull up to the sandbar. More...

Boating Accessories

Lithium Batteries, Part 2

Management and Charging

Lithium-ion batteries all have built-in Battery Management Systems (BMS) to protect them. They prevent overcharging, excessive temperatures and external short-circuiting during charging. Most conventional chargers have a setting for lithium batteries, too, but check first. More...

Free Family Boating Course

Free 1st Month of SBC Membership

Looking for a manageable boat that is an affordable way to get out on the water and a good hands-on course to learn about boating for you and your family? Consider becoming a member of the Sovereign Boat Club’s Everglades 235CC on Tampa Bay. For annual dues of just $4.995 and a monthly maintenance fee of only $625, this premium boat and the boating lessons are all yours. And for a limited time only — your first month is free. It’s easy peasy. Contact Greg Sweeney at 727-200-3474 or email here.

Photo Of The Day

"Reefer" by Forest Johnson

To learn more about Forest or to order a print of this image, click here. 

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