Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin: engaging to drive, Axopar to the core

The Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin is the flagship of the new 38 range, and the test boat here was fitted with the Brabus Line upgrade. With the option of 350hp V10 Mercury outboards, it is aimed at newcomers to seasoned skippers.

It is built for adventure cruises – in testing conditions if need be, and social family boating. Sitting in the middle to upper section of this market, it comes with a proven pedigree.

Axopar have designed a new hull for the 38 – not a ‘stretched’ version of their existing 37. Testing out of Palma with it gusting 20 knots, it is fair to say I got a good feel for the boat. It is a twin-step deep-vee design, with a transom deadrise of 20 degrees. However, where it differs from the Axopar 37 is in the chines and the forefoot. The chines have been widened, and the forefoot has a short secondary chine supporting a flared section just where you need it. The 37 was known for a slight lack in forward buoyancy, especially in following seas, while this new hull has plenty of forward lift.

Running at 40 knots with the weather astern was easy work, displaying no tendency to run bow down. At all points to the wind the 38 XC is composed, and as advised, leaving Mercury’s active trim system to do its job is best. Natural trim is very good, with the hull picking up and planing at 14 knots. Trim tabs are not needed unless you are heavily loaded or running with a strong beam sea, and into the wind the ride is dry. The boat steers in a balanced and responsive manner, enabling you to confidently track round in ever-tighter turns. In the conditions of the day the solid resin infused construction made itself felt.

The Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin comes with two engine options: twin 300hp Mercury V8s, or twin 350hp Mercury V10s, both options we were able to test. Many will find the 42 knot top speed of twin V8s more than enough, but I found that the 46 knot V10 version releases the hull’s full potential. Running over a wave pattern into the weather was more relaxed with V10s, as that extra power enabled you to work the throttles ‘up and over’ the wave pattern easier. With the V8s, you needed a touch more focus than with V10s, whose extra torque provides greater response. In tight turns the extra grunt of 700hp was a bonus, enabling you to punch out with ease. I recorded 0 – 30 knot times of 10 seconds with V10s, while the V8 boat was a couple of seconds slower.

In terms of cruising performance both boats have a low cruising speed of 22 knots. Twin V8s spin at 4000rpm returning 1.2nmpg (84lph), and the V10s also produce 1.2nmpg (86lph) while running at a more leisurely 3700rpm. Fast cruising at 33 knots reveals near-identical fuel returns for both. I am told that with Mercury releasing a 425hp V10 later this year, this will likely be on the cards.

The helm has either a reversible bench seat (as tested) or twin bucket seats. All-round visibility is great thanks to extensive window space, and narrow mullions. Throttle/wheel ergonomics are spot on. Standing in all conditions is secure, as you can wedge your feet on the forward bulkhead, and when sitting there is a footboard. Access onto the side decks is a breeze thanks to wide side doors, which can lock partially open if need be. Deck movement is safe and easy, thanks to high bulwarks, inset hand rails, and the use of a hand groove running around the coach roof. There is plenty of deck storage under the forward seating, in the anchor locker, as well as aft quarter compartments. The foldout bulwarks are a bonus, especially with the aft cabin taking up what would be cockpit space.

With the convertible saloon dinette you could sleep six if needed. However, most will opt to use the dinette purely for dining, enhanced by a full length electric sunroof, and the opening full width rear window. There is plenty of headroom and an abundance of natural light, both of which give the impression of a bigger boat.

The aft cabin is accessed by folding up the port section of the aft bench seat, offering a large double bed. The forward cabin with double bed, houses a heads compartment with shower, and a compact galley opposite. There is full standing headroom in this part of the forward cabin, and joinery is excellent throughout. Impressively the drawers in the galley have locking catches, so no spills at sea. Access below is either through a door in the wheelhouse, which shuts with surgical precision, or via Axopar’s signature gull wing doors, providing plenty of ventilation when anchored.

Handling at low speed is blissfully easy with Mercury’s joystick, and with such easy deck movement this boat lends itself well to single crewed skippers. Being highly practical it suits a multitude of boaters.

Its main purpose is adventure boating, but its large fuel capacity, and capable hull will appeal to those who want to stretch their cruising legs. Given its innovative and modular design, this boat serves an extensive market.

Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin, Brabus Line: frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin, Brabus Line?

With twin 350hp Mercury V10 outboards the Axopar 38 XC reaches 46 knots as a two-way average. The twin 300hp Mercury V8 option tops out at 42 knots.

How much does the Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin, Brabus Line cost?

Pricing starts from 305,430 euros inc VAT with twin 300hp Mercury V8 outboards, rising to 440,500 euros inc VAT for the boat as tested with twin 350hp Mercury V10 outboards.

Is the Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin suitable for offshore use?

Yes. It is built for adventure cruising in testing conditions, with a twin-step deep-vee hull, a 20-degree transom deadrise and a Category B offshore rating.

How many people can sleep aboard the Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin?

The convertible saloon dinette can sleep up to six if needed, with a forward cabin double bed and an aft cabin double bed providing the main sleeping accommodation.

What engines are available on the Axopar 38 XC Cross Cabin?

Buyers can choose between twin 300hp Mercury V8 outboards or twin 350hp Mercury V10 outboards. Both options were tested for this review.