Overview
Axopar, Finnish builder of Boating’s 2020 Boat of the Year, the Axopar 28 Cabin, invited me to test its latest: the Axopar 22.
When it comes to styling, traditional is my default setting, but I like this one’s sharp lines. The slightly reversed bow is all the rage in Europe, where I am based, and I love the bluff deck overhang forward that deflects spray. Beyond the center console, there is plenty of seating, a table and a sun pad, plus toy and decal options.
Engine
Two versions are available: Spyder or T-top, each pre-rigged for single 115 to 200 hp Mercury outboard power. Our open test boat sported a 200, and with just two aboard, it easily topped 40 knots. At a fast cruise of 33 mph, the ultimate range with that engine would be 204 miles, but the optimal cruise is a just over the hump and approaching 22 mph, at which the theoretical range spins out to just over 240 miles. The twin-stepped hull handles beautifully too—just enough roll into the turns and no nasty snags.
Interior and Accessories
This end of the market is price-sensitive, but Axopar has positioned itself well. With a usual set of sail-away extras and those 200 horses, our test boat would have priced out at $76,601 excluding taxes. For comparison, the same boat with the smallest 115 hp Mercury would list for $68,464. The standard specification includes a bare deck, the bridge console, and both pilot and co-pilot seats that adjust back and forth, as well as a bare bench seat aft.
Normally, comments about what-if preferences ring hollow. It’s never real unless you’re the one prepared to part with the folding stuff. But this time, I’m seriously considering getting a new runabout, and one of these Axopar 22s might do me nicely. Key extras for me would include max power, a 12-inch chart plotter, the dual-battery setup, two-piece pulpit hardware, and an extra-large T-top, plus a full set of cushions and the electric freshwater flushing head. COVID-19-related supply-chain issues preclude publishing these accessory prices at press time.
At any rate, add this boat to your list if you’re in the market for an efficient, good-riding, multipurpose vessel powered by a single outboard.
How We Tested
- Engine Single 200 hp Mercury
- Drive/Prop: Outboard/3-blade
- Gear Ratio: 1.85:1 Fuel Load: 60 gal. Crew Weight: 400 lb.
High Points
- Handrail rings the deck.
- Windshield adjusts from near vertical to fully raked by twisting knobs on each side of the console.
- Cavernous locker under the aft deck will accommodate a life raft.
Low Points
- Pilot and co-pilot seats feel a little too low, and there’s no height adjustment.
- Could do with a grab rail for the co-pilot.
Toughest Competitor
Scout Boats’ 215 LXF ($68,742 base) offers either Mercury or Yamaha power, mixes great utility with luxury, and offers traditional lines and a nonstepped hull compared to the double-stepped Axopar’s striking profile.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $68,464 (base) |
|---|---|
| LOA: | 23’7″ |
| Beam: | 7’4″ |
| Draft: | 2’8″ |
| Displacement (approx., no engine): | 2,756 lb. |
| Transom Deadrise: | 17 degrees |
| Bridge Clearance: | 4’2″ |
| Fuel Capacity: | 60 gal. |
| Max Horsepower: | 200 |
| Available Power: | Single Mercury outboard to 200 hp. |
Speed, Efficiency, Operation
Axopar – Helsinki, Finland; axopar.fi
