Nautik Magazine

What's New | Axopar 38 Sun Top, a new premium option for open-water cruising

The new Axopar 38 Sun Top is designed for a more open, versatile boating experience focused on shared enjoyment on board.

Axopar Boats is expanding its revamped 38 series with the launch of the new Axopar 38 Sun Top, a boat designed for those seeking a more open, social, and versatile boating experience without compromising on high-performance features. The model, which joins the recently unveiled 38 XC Cross Cabin, features an open and configurable layout that strengthens the connection between passengers and the sea, while keeping the Finnish company’s dynamic and sporty DNA intact.

The bow deck transforms into a spacious lounge area designed for relaxing, socializing, or enjoying the anchorage.

An open concept for sharing the onboard experience

The new Axopar 38 Sun Top was designed with a clear vision in mind: to transform the boat into a fully integrated social space. The absence of visual barriers between the helm, the cockpit, and the aft deck creates a fluid and natural flow, enhancing both social interaction and functionality while underway.

The double-step hull ensures stable, precise, and comfortable navigation even at high speeds.

The shipyard has developed one of the most modular cockpit layouts in the segment. The owner can choose between individual seats, U-shaped sofas facing forward, or spacious areas that can be converted into a sun deck using an electrically adjustable table. In addition, the helm seat features a reversible backrest and fold-down armrests that allow the space to be quickly adapted for different uses: steering, relaxing, or dining on board.

With the optional seats built into the gunwales, the social area can comfortably accommodate up to ten people, further enhancing the model’s recreational and Mediterranean character.

The bathtub’s modular design makes it easy to adapt the space to serve as a helm station, outdoor dining area, or sun deck.

Smart protection without compromising the driving experience

One of the most distinctive features of this model is its Sun Top roof, designed to preserve the essence of open-air driving without compromising comfort when weather conditions change.

The system features a sliding canvas roof that allows the central area to be fully opened on sunny days or provides shade and protection when needed. Optional roll-up awnings further enhance protection from wind and rain without limiting visibility or the sense of spaciousness.

This solution aims to extend the boat’s usable season, particularly for coastal cruising and medium-distance trips.

The fold-out side platforms increase the usable space on board and provide direct access to the water.

Axopar’s signature sporty DNA

Although the Sun Top has a more social and open design, the boat retains the same technical platform as the Axopar 38 series. The double-stepped V-shaped hull with a sharp bow has been optimized to deliver precise, efficient, and safe handling at any speed.

The manufacturer highlights improvements in hydrodynamics, weight distribution, and structural design—factors that contribute to a more intuitive and stable sailing experience for both experienced skippers and less seasoned users.

The structural rigidity of the hull also helps significantly reduce noise and vibration on board, improving comfort during long voyages.

In terms of engine options, the Axopar 38 Sun Top will be available with two Mercury Verado outboard configurations: with two 300-hp Mercury V8 Verado engines (starting at €190,425, excluding VAT) or with two 350-hp Mercury V10 Verado engines (starting at €205,300, excluding VAT)

The engine lineup includes two Mercury Verado configurations—300 hp and 350 hp—to maximize performance and range.

A functional interior for longer getaways

The bow has been designed as a true multifunctional lounge area, perfect for relaxing, dining, or sunbathing, whether at anchor or underway.

Below deck, the forward cabin offers more living space than previous generations thanks to increased headroom, new kitchen units, and the option to include an enclosed bathroom with a shower. The overhead skylights and gullwing-style side doors significantly improve natural light and ventilation.

With sleeping accommodations for four, the Axopar 38 Sun Top further solidifies its position as a versatile boat for day trips and short cruises.

The distinctive Sun Top roof features a sliding canvas panel that fully opens up the central area to the outside.

A rapidly expanding product line

Following the unveiling of the 38 XC Cross Cabin at Boot Düsseldorf 2026, Axopar continues to expand the 38 series with this new Sun Top. The next addition will be the upcoming Cross Top, scheduled for September 2026, which will feature a tilting windshield designed to provide greater sun protection.

According to Jan-Erik Viitala, a founding partner of Axopar, “driving has never been just about the journey; it’s about the people you share the experience with.” This philosophy sums up the approach behind this new generation of models.

  • Technical specifications
  • Overall length: 11.85 meters
  • Sleeve length: 3.53 meters
  • Draft: 1.1 meters
  • Displacement: approx. 5,300 kg
  • Capacity: 10–12 people
  • Sleeping capacity: 2 + 2
  • Fuel capacity: 830 L
  • Maximum speed: over 45 knots
  • Engine: 2 x 300 hp / 2 x 350 hp
  • CE Category: B Offshore / C Coastal