By Andy Kancachian
When Peter Hrones, Eyachts managing director and exclusive Axopar distributor for Australia, calls a press conference to launch a new boat, the Australian marine media take notice. Having a personal walkthrough of the new 2024 Model 45 ft Axopar Sun Top by Peter is exciting, and his passion for the brand is contagious, contributing to its phenomenal success in Australia.
Peter pointed out some key design features; Axopar has added some really convenient elements such as the foldout midlevel side balconies, which create further seating and widen the social space in the cockpit, making it possible for the entire family and all your friends to be seated around the cockpit dining table.
This boat can carry a whopping 16 passengers comfortably, in style, while allowing plenty of personal space and a variety of social settings for everyone onboard. There are integrated roof racks, great for secure storage of all your on-water toys such as your SUPs, paddle boards, canoes, and even your mountain bikes! They have also included a flush-mounted solar panel allowing the batteries to charge while out on the water. And the feature he was most excited about were strategically positioned canvas zip-up store pockets that could hold valuables, lifejackets, or even wet clothing and towels that will dry off once underway.
Walking us to the bow we noted the forward-facing sun lounge seating and two well-placed sound system speakers, creating an incredibly relaxing space for sunset drinks or even a cruise at high speed. The unique design allows access to the cabin below via gull wing (think Tesla/Mercedes) doors on the bow deck.
Below is a spacious area for resting, comfortably seated in a multi-purpose lounge, which converts into a bed by flipping over a backrest. The high roof allows even a 6.3ft person to walk around freely, and the space includes a full-height internal toilet and shower.
The DNA of this model incorporates all of Axopar’s experience, making the hull ride very smooth, producing comfortable and safe boating at 45 knots through reasonable-sized chop, which is testament to the big deep V hull design. Peter assured us that although this boat was bigger than the super popular 37, the manoeuvring was just as agile and responsive.
The helm features 3 helm chairs and smart steering from the Babus Shadow range – integrating trim table controls, bow thruster, and stereo, all at your fingertips. The setup for the captain is very ergonomic, with comfortable throttles, and two flush-mounted multifunction screens allowing GPS and chart information, as well as onboard diagnostics such as engine controls, lithium battery monitoring, and the Axopar management system.
As we sat listening, this all-black big and deep V hull with its matching three black 300hp 4.6L Mercury V8 Verados with joystick control, was certainly attracting a lot of attention from the public at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Carrying 1200 L of fuel, this boat has a range close to 300 NM. At the centre of the boat is a nice entertaining space with a wet bar, sink, cooking grill, and two large drawer fridges. There are several other fridges and an esky positioned around the entertaining areas.
The standout difference from previous models is the sheer amount of storage around the boat; every usable space has been converted to some kind of storage – lockers, drawers, and hidden compartments – so you can stow away your gear yet have it easily accessible when required.
For those that want sun, there are 2 large remote control sunroofs, giving the captain and passengers the choice to open up the areas if desired.
There are three rear configuration options on this model; on display was one offering a rear bench and below floor storage, another offers a U-shaped seating dinette that converts to a sunbed, and the aft cabin option with a large glass rear window for kids or friends to sleep in their own private second cabin.
This boat is all style and thinking, with deck wash, reading lights, USB ports, flush speakers and ceiling lights, and of course optional rocket launchers for the fisher folks. Peter explained that the Axopar 37 range was the most popular of its size in the world, and he believes many 37 owners will upgrade, and many new buyers will be attracted to the versatility of the Axopar 45 Sun Top configurations and styling.
This boat creates a really casual place to hang out on the water; it looks cool, performs superbly, and accommodates the most discerning boaties and their passengers.
For further information boats@eyachts.com.au
Published in print August-December 2024
