THIS MONTH's 10

THE 10 KEY BOATING STORIES YOU NEED TO READ

1 ALL-NEW AXOPAR 29

Axopar is celebrating its tenth anniversary with the launch of an all-new 29ft model at the upcoming Düsseldorf boat show. A replacement for the hugely popular Axopar 28, over 2,700 of which have been sold since 2014, it promises more of everything except weight.

Outwardly similar in appearance to its predecessor, the new Axopar 29 is an entirely fresh design that has been carefully honed to build on the 28’s defining characteristics.

That starts with a brand new twin-step hull measuring 29ft 4in (8.95m) long and 9ft 9in wide (2.98m) – 8in longer and 1in wider than the old one. However, a more integrated moulding process with fewer bolt-on elements means it weighs almost the same as the previous one but with the added benefit of increased strength and reduced noise and vibration.

A fresh focus on hydrodynamics is also said to improve handling and performance, which combined with an increased power rating of up to 450hp should make for higher speeds with little or no penalty at the fuel pumps. A larger fuel tank (up from 280 to 400 litres) capitalises on this to deliver a significantly longer range.

However, the most obvious visual difference is the design and layout of the deck spaces. A more pronounced bow flare above the waterline not only results in a drier ride (one of the few criticisms of the previous model) but also a wider, more spacious foredeck large enough to house a U-shaped seating area instead of the old L-shaped one. A more substantial centre console, with a moulded-in two-person bench in front of the helm, links up with the bow seating to create a social hub large enough to seat six people.

It’s a similar story in the aft cockpit where the previous row of four forward-facing seats has been replaced by a more convivial U-shaped dinette allowing up to eight people to sit around a large table. Padded lockers either side of the outboard engine provide more places for guests to perch at anchor.

The changes extend below deck level, where that elongated centre console now creates enough room below for what is described as a ‘multi-storage space’. Accessed via the forward seat, it houses a heads and sink but can be pressed into service as an occasional sleeping cabin for two, meaning up to four people can sleep aboard if you opt for the aft cabin layout.

As with the 28, the 29 will come in three different guises: a fully open Spyder, a