Breakout Boats
1 - Axopar 45 XC
Finland-based Axopar’s 45 XC Cross Cabin is the first model in a new series of 45s, which includes the Spyder, T-Top, Sun-Top and Cross Top models. The 45 XC Cross Cabin is a walkaround design with a fully enclosed cabin and outboard engines—triple 300-hp Mercury V-8 Verados that the builder says can propel the boat at speeds of 19 to 35 knots. At the helm, skippers have controls for the bow thruster, trim tabs and audio system, as well as Simrad touchscreen displays and a custom Axopar user interface. Standard features for creating an indoor-outdoor experience include gull-wing doors, dual electric sliding canvas roofs, and double sliding doors. Owners can opt for an aft cabin and a second head to create a different style of overnight experience, as well as a gyrostabilizer to help keep everybody comfortable on board. A 1st Mate security system provides additional peace of mind.
2 - X Shore 1
X Shore, founded in 1996, is a Swedish builder of electric-powered boats. Its X Shore 1 is a 21-footer available in Open or Top versions. The builder cites a cruising speed of 20 knots and a top speed of 30 knots, with a range of 50 nautical miles—performance similar to the X Shore Eelex 8000, but with a hull that’s been further optimized to increase efficiency and reduce resistance. Charging the motor to 80 percent can be done in 50 minutes with the latest technology; with the typical chargers found in most marinas, recharging can take about three hours, according to the builder. For owners who want to spend overnights on the hook, the cabin can sleep at least two people, and there’s dedicated space for a cooler and a portable toilet. Up on deck, the sun bed can face forward or aft, depending on which direction has the best harbor views.
3 - Cape Horn 39T
Cape Horn designed its new flagship, the 39T, because owners of its 36-footer continually asked for something larger. This is the center console for those anglers who want to trade up, and it’s laid out to be tournament-ready since many customers of the Florida-based builder like to fish competitively. Cape Horn says a pair of 600-hp Mercury Verados are the perfect pairing for the offshore-ready, deep-V hull. And they’re set back on the transom so there’s plenty of space on which to walk. Preliminary tests of the boat with this power package produced a top-end speed close to 68 knots and cruise speed near 35 knots. The builder is particularly proud of all the in-deck stowage aboard, including a huge 1,600-quart fishbox in the bow that’s overinsulated with urethane. There are also two transom gates, a trio of Llebroc seats at the helm, plenty of stowage for rods and tackle, and the option to convert a fishbox to a livewell.
4 - Four Winns H2e
Four Winns is moving into electric-powered boating with this 22-foot bowrider, the H2e. The Michigan-based builder is offering the boat with an outboard engine from Canada’s Vision Marine Technologies, with a reported top speed of about 35 knots. The onboard system to power that outboard includes two 700-volt, high-density battery packs, and an onboard charger that can be plugged into any shore power system at the dock. Four Winns says the H2e also has the first-ever smart digital display designed specifically for the marine industry, with a dual touchscreen that handles entertainment controls, phone connections and navigation needs. Skippers also can access an automated logbook that provides trip history, battery status, security information and weather forecasts. Also new from Four Winns: the TH36 Performance, which is an outboard-powered catamaran with power options from Mercury and Yamaha. That boat has two ensuite staterooms with full-size berths for family or couples cruising.
5 - Tiara EX 60
The newest boat from Tiara Yachts is the EX 60, which is the largest inboard model ever to come from the Michigan-based builder. The EX 60 is being offered in four configurations that change things up amidships and aft, depending on what kind of cruising, entertaining or water sports the owner intends to focus on. Inside are a salon and galley, with three staterooms belowdecks to accommodate six adults for overnight cruising. There are two heads, further adding to the creature comforts at anchor. “This is really uncharted in some ways, for this particular design, as we blend elements that we know are proven in our outboard line and take portions we’ve learned from the inboard models,” said Tom Slikkers, CEO and president of Tiara Yachts. Power plants on the Tiara EX 60 will be Volvo Penta IPS, offered in multiple configurations and paired with Garmin technology at the helm, including assisted docking.
6 - Viking Valhalla 55
New Jersey’s Viking Yachts is going big. It has two new models this year: the super-size Viking 90 sportfishing yacht with six staterooms and seven heads, and the Valhalla Boatworks V-55 (shown on previous page), which will be the new flagship model in the Valhalla lineup and the largest center console to utilize the patented double-stepped running surface from Michael Peters Yacht Design. Owners of the 55 will be able to choose a package of four or five 600-hp Mercury Marine engines, for a maximum of 3,000 hp. Key specifications include a beam of 15 feet, 6 inches to allow plenty of maneuvering space when a fish is on; a full-load draft of 4 feet with engines down; and a 1,200-gallon fuel capacity to ensure a solid reserve when making long runs to and from the canyons. Angling amenities will include two 65-gallon live wells to hold the best of the day’s catch.
7 - Outer Reef 650 Classic Motoryacht
Outer Reef’s 650 Outer Classic MY is a re-engineered evolution of the Florida-based builder’s 700 Classic Motoryacht, created at the request of customers who wanted similar amenities in a slightly smaller package. Quite a few features that were previously available only on the 700 are on board the 650, including a larger open galley; a main-deck day head; full-size refrigeration; internal stairs from the salon to the crew quarters; an FRP staircase to the flybridge (instead of a stainless steel ladder); and an updated belowdecks layout with heads forward of and abaft the king-berth master stateroom. Outer Reef says the 650’s layout means that owners can choose to use the crew quarters as a guest space, making this new model a four-stateroom yacht with four and a half heads. That’s the kind of accommodations space more commonly found aboard much larger designs.
8 - Brunswick Veer X13
With an eye toward highlighting technical advancements in boatbuilding, Illinois-based Brunswick Corporation used the Consumer Electronics Show as the debut event for the first model in its electric-propulsion Veer lineup, the Veer X13. It’s a 13-foot boat that’s crafted by the engineering team at Lund Boats and built from rotomolded polyethylene for durability. The X13 is powered by Mercury Avator electric propulsion systems and Mercury FourStroke outboards, including the Avator 7.5e electric outboard, which is the first product in the Avator series. These systems are designed for quiet, all-electric power, intuitive controls, advanced digital displays and no direct emissions. A galvanized trailer makes it possible for owners to tow the Veer X13 with cars or smaller SUVs, and optional features include a shallow-water anchor. The Veer X13 is intended to be an introductory-level model that helps new boaters enter the sport, with a starting price of $11,995 that includes standard features.
9 - Prestige M48
French builder Prestige Yachts, which builds motoryachts from 40 to 70 feet length overall, is introducing an M-Line of power catamarans. The first model is the M48, which has a beam of 19 feet, 8 inches that allows for a great deal of guest relaxation space on board. The flybridge has a helm station, seating, dining area and sun lounge. The main deck has more seating and dining inside and out, along with a galley positioned aft. Belowdecks are three staterooms, including a master forward with a king-size berth and hullside windows for natural light. Exterior features include a high-low swim platform that can be lowered into the water for use as a teak beach, and foredeck seating that creates an additional spot for guests to gather in privacy on board. Prestige says the M48 has a top speed of 20 knots, with a range of 600 nautical miles at 8 knots.
10 - Intrepid 51 Panacea
Florida-based Intrepid Powerboats has a new flagship: the 51 Panacea. Key features include a fiberglass hardtop, full-height glass windshield with wipers, and two rows of protected seating for the skipper, mate and guests. The helm seat cabinet contains everything boaters will need for prepping snacks, including a countertop, sink, cutting board, fridge, stowage drawers and slide-out cooler. The cockpit is designed for fishing, diving or entertaining, with an electric sunshade that extends from the hardtop. A swing-in hullside dive door is to starboard, with a hydraulic swim platform to port for water access and a transom swim platform for engine access. A fold-up rear bench seat is here for guests, in addition to forward sun lounges and wraparound bow seating that converts for dining. Below are a V-berth, head and galley for overnights on the hook.
11 - Regal LS9 Surf
The LS9 Surf from Florida-based Regal Boats is built with the Regal Surf System that features 2,500 pounds of ballast, custom wave-shaping tabs, Volvo Penta’s Forward Drive and twin 12-inch Glass Cockpit watersports displays. The skipper has easy access to digital switching and surf controls, and there’s a WakeSubs option that lets surfers listen to high-quality audio while they’re on the water. For days when there’s inclement weather or bridges to contend with, the Regal LS9 Surf has a power hardtop that can adjust with the flip of a few latches and the tap of a button. Aft, Regal’s Power Platform makes it easier to get into and out of the water because it raises and lowers, unlike a fixed swim platform. Owners can choose 380- or 430-hp Volvo Penta V-8 engines, and can opt to add a bow thruster, electric toilet and transom shower. Upgraded sound and lighting are also available as options.
12 - Blackfin 400CC
The Blackfin 400CC is the Florida builder’s new flagship, joining a lineup of center- and dual-console boats that start at 22 feet length overall. The Blackfin 400CC is a center console with a 12-foot beam, 23 degrees of deadrise in the Michael Peters double stepped hull, and a maximum horsepower rating of 1,800. The power package will be quad Mercury engines. Projected speeds with those motors were not available at press time. The Blackfin 400CC will have a 500-gallon fuel capacity and a 100-gallon water capacity, which the builder expects to see good use from anglers, cruising families and friends out having a fun day on the water. Given how much bigger the 400CC will be than Blackfin’s other models—its length overall including the engines is 43 feet, 10 inches, while the previous largest model was a 33—it’s safe to say the 400CC will be packed with more features than any other Blackfin model that’s currently on the water.
13 - Solara 310 SC
Solara Boats, based in Washington state, is part of the same family of companies that includes Ranger Tugs and Cutwater boats. The Solara models come with a sizable number of standard features, including autopilot systems, bow and stern cameras, lithium batteries, computer-controlled trim tabs, EVA foam traction decking, sport racks for hauling water toys, and a galvanic isolator to help shield the outboard engine from corrosion. Solara’s newest model is the 310 SC, a sistership to the 310 CW center-walkaround model. The Solara 310 SC is powered by twin Yamaha F250 outboards, and it has a 10-foot beam and 10,500-pound dry weight. Draft is a skinny 2 feet, 1 inch, which means the Solara 310 SC should be able to handle cruising in shallow waters in the Bahamas and beyond. A factory delivery option includes a full day of systems and operational orientation for owners near the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest.
14 - Jeanneau DB/43
Jeanneau offers its DB/43 in inboard- and outboard-power configurations, both of which are new for 2023. The hull is a Michael Peters design. It can pack triple 350-hp Mercury Verados operated with joystick control. They cut into the space reserved for a larger swim platform on the inboard version of the DB/43, but in both versions, there are port and starboard foldout side terraces aft, making the loss of a full swim platform an easy compromise for owners who want the outboard power. With the terraces folded up, the Jeanneau DB/43 has a beam of 12 feet, 6 inches; with the terraces open, that relaxation space expands to 18 feet, 7 inches. The French builder includes air conditioning in the cockpit as well as in the interior, which includes two staterooms that can accommodate four or five people overnight (depending on whether one berth is set up for sleeping or as a sofa).
15 - North Pacific 450 Pilothouse
North Pacific Yachts in British Columbia is introducing the North Pacific 450 Pilothouse, which the builder describes as “our 45 with a slightly more modern twist inside and out.” The 45 (which is still available) was an evolution of the NP43, which was the yard’s first model; the 450 Pilothouse further evolves the concept of the 45 with larger, bonded windows instead of framed ones, and a teak interior with more modern cabinetry. The beam on the 450 Pilothouse is 13 feet, 8 inches, allowing owner-operators plenty of moving-around space for handling lines and fenders. Draft is 4 feet, 6 inches, which should allow access to most harbors on longer cruising itineraries. Fuel capacity is 700 gallons. According to North Pacific Yachts, the 450 Pilothouse has a cruising speed of 7 to 10 knots, and a top speed of 11 to 15 knots, depending on the power.
16 - Sea Ray SLX 260 Surf Boat
Tennessee-based Sea Ray is launching the SLX 260 Surf, which combines the comforts of the SLX 260 with wakesurfing technology. Outfitting includes a Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L MPI ECT engine with a forward-facing Bravo Four S drive, integrated SmartCraft technology and Digital Throttle & Shift controls. Electric surf tabs and ballast tanks control the height of the waves behind the boat, producing a long or short pocket to suit any rider’s fancy. Sea Ray worked with Mercury Marine and Simrad to create a user interface that lets the skipper adjust surf settings with the touch of a button. Other onboard tech includes 9-inch Simrad touchscreen displays with Mercury VesselView Mobile, Active Trim control and monitoring, and CZone digital switching. As part of the entertainment bundle, the helm can also include an inductive charging station. Overhead, there’s a standard, electrically actuated water-sports tower with an integrated Bimini top and surf tow points.
17 - Aquila 42 Yacht
Aquila Yachts—which has made a name for itself in the power-catamaran market since it started building the boats in 2012—is adding a 42 Yacht to its lineup. The 42 Yacht will be the smallest model in Aquila’s Yacht series, which also includes a 44, a 54 and a 70. Like its bigger siblings, the 42 Yacht will have the spaciousness of a multihull design, with a 21-foot beam and relaxation areas in the cockpit, on the flybridge and at the foredeck. Inside, the cat will be outfitted for cruising, with two staterooms that can be set up in multiple configurations, depending on a family’s needs. (Two couples cruising together can also take comfort in the fact that nobody gets stuck in a “kiddie cabin.”) A utility cabin can be used as owners desire, and there are options for Volvo Penta power. The standard power package will be twin 230-hp Volvo Penta D4 inboards.
18 - Nordhavn N625
The Nordhavn N625 is an update of the Nordhavn 60 that has long been a fan favorite among cruisers interested in serious, longer-term itineraries. The N625 will employ some of the production techniques the builder is using on its N41 and N51 models—think more standard features and equipment, which helps the builder to keep costs down and more efficiently manage supply chains. Company co-owner and chief of design Jeff Leishman says the N625 has a “fresh, modern exterior” while maintaining the same footprint as the N60. The N625’s flybridge is slightly bigger, the windows in the cabins are bigger, and there’s more seating on the foredeck. Similar to the N60, the N625 is being offered with three staterooms: two belowdecks, and one abaft the wheelhouse. The new boat will be built by Nordhavn’s partner factory, South Coast, at its new facility in Taiwan. South Coast also builds the N60.
19 - Sailfish 226 DC
Georgia-based Sailfish Boats has three model lines: dual console, center console and walk around. The dual-console series is getting a new entry-level model with the Sailfish 226 DC. This boat, like other Sailfish builds, will have a variable-degree stepped hull—which means it has three running surfaces to cut through the water, provide lift and a softer ride, and allow for stability while trolling or at idle. Amenities will include an extended transom with a built-in cooler to port; transom storage; a standard enclosed head with a portable toilet; and a wraparound windshield with a centerline walk-through. Guest seating includes a portside chaise with a backrest that can be forward- or rear-facing, or that can lower so the chaise becomes a sun bed. More seating is aft, where a foldaway, transom-mounted bench seat also has a backrest. Power options for this boat are from Mercury, Yamaha or Suzuki at 150 or 200 hp.
20 - Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht
The latest model from Australia’s Riviera Yachts is the 46 Sports Motor Yacht, which joins a Sports Motor Yacht series that includes 50-, 64-, 68- and 72-foot models. The boats in this series are built with multiple entertaining spaces from the cockpit to the foredeck, and with an open flybridge that, on the 46, can comfortably seat eight people. A covered “alfresco deck” is forward of the cockpit, creating a space that expands the interior salon living area through a sliding glass door and an awning window to the galley. Belowdecks, there are three double-berth staterooms and two heads for overnight cruising with the family or friends. The master stateroom is forward, with the guest staterooms located amidships, giving everyone a sense of privacy on board. Standard power for the Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht is a pair of 600-hp Volvo Penta D8-IPS 800s. Owners also can opt for 725-hp Volvo Penta D11-IPS 950s.
21 - Pardo GT52
Pardo Yachts is now offering galley-up and galley-down versions of its GT52, part of the model line that’s a crossover between a walkaround and a classic cabin cruiser. The Italian builder designed this model with stern doors similar to those on the Pardo Endurance 60: They can open completely, combining the indoor-outdoor spaces. With the GT52’s roof in semi-open mode, the indoor space feels like an extension of the cockpit’s dining and sunbathing areas. There’s seating for eight people in this stern area, as well as more seating at the bow for another three guests. For overnights, there are two guest staterooms as well as a crew cabin. Owners who choose the galley-up layout can add a third stateroom with a bunk bed. (In the galley-down configuration, the dinette and galley are augmented.) Standard power is twin 650-hp Volvo Penta engines, or owners can opt for 700- or 800-hp versions.
22 - Galeon 440 Fly
The Galeon 440 Fly is one of several new models from Polish builder Galeon Yachts. (Also look for the 560 Fly, another new launch for 2023 that has a length overall of 57 feet, 7 inches.) The 440 Fly is designed to look like it’s moving even when it’s perfectly still at anchor in a quiet harbor. Galeon Yachts is offering the boat with a two- or three-stateroom layout, to keep families of various sizes comfortable during longer cruising getaways. The builder also promises “a comprehensive list of additional features that allow for maximum customization,” as recognition that different families like to cruise in different ways. In any configuration, the Galeon 440 Fly comes standard with a pair of 480-hp Volvo Penta D6 inboard engines, with a reported cruising speed of 25 knots and a top hop of 30 knots. Draft is just 2 feet, 8 inches, meaning this boat can cruise just about anywhere, no matter how skinny the water.
This article was originally published in the March 2023 issue.
