Axopar 45 Cross Cabin 2025 Review

This innovative vessel is set to redefine the larger cruiser segment. While it remains a dayboat at heart, the Axopar 45 stands apart from traditional 45-foot cruisers that prioritise expansive interiors at the expense of outdoor space.

Instead, Axopar has flipped the script, maximising outdoor entertainment areas without compromising essential interior comforts. This bold approach is classic Axopar—challenging convention, disrupting, and then steering the industry in an exciting new direction.

The Axopar 45 Cross Cabin takes its place as the flagship of the Axopar lineup, measuring an impressive 13.90m in length with a 4.11m beam. Weighing in at approximately 7000kg without engines, this vessel is powered by a trio of Mercury engines delivering a combined 224kW each, totalling an exhilarating 900hp. Remarkably, this powerhouse setup runs with surprising quietness—but more on that later.

The design revolves around a spacious central cabin, flanked by thoughtfully crafted entertainment zones at both the bow and stern, making it a versatile platform for relaxation and adventure alike.

The rear cockpit is the main hub for entertainment, offering versatile layout options to suit various needs. The test boat featured a single bench seat positioned against the rear of the cabin, creating a spacious, uninterrupted flat deck—ideal for families who love water sports and outdoor adventures.

Alternatively, a ‘U’-shaped seating arrangement is available, offering a cozy and inviting setup that is perfect for entertaining guests. For those seeking additional accommodation, there is an option to include an aft cabin and toilet. While this configuration slightly reduces deck space, it compensates with a raised sun pad on the cabin roof, providing a luxurious lounging area. Personally, I would opt for the starboard barbeque option for that alfresco cooking feel.

The bow is designed for ultimate relaxation, featuring a spacious sun lounge and sun pad spread over two levels, offering breathtaking views and exceptional comfort. The sun lounge comfortably seats two to three people, while the sun pad provides room for an additional two, making this area perfect for soaking up the sun during Australian summers.

True to Axopar's reputation, access to the bow is effortless, thanks to a wide, clean walkway complemented by a sturdy stainless steel grab handle. This thoughtful design ensures a smooth and seamless transition from the stern to the bow, enhancing both convenience and safety.

The centrally located cabin is a marvel of thoughtful design, offering an open, airy feel and a flood of natural sunlight. A generously sized sunroof enhances the space with a convertible-like ambiance, while sliding doors on both sides invite refreshing breezes and sunlight to fill the cabin.

Adding to its appeal are the built-in bench seats nestled within each gunnel. These seats, positioned on either side of the cabin, transform the space into a spacious amphitheatre when the sliding doors are open, creating the perfect setting for relaxed afternoons where conversations flow effortlessly in a comfortable, inviting environment.

Inside, the cabin boasts a centrally located timber table surrounded by large windows, ensuring panoramic views for guests. Above the cabin, three roof racks provide practical storage for inflatables and other watersports equipment, adding to the boat's versatility.

The space behind the helm seat incorporates a cooktop and sink, complemented by fridges tucked neatly below. This layout allows hosts to prepare meals or snacks while maintaining interaction with their guests. The helm station itself, situated to starboard, offers effortless access to the exterior through a two-way sliding door.

The helm's design is clean and uncluttered, with easy-to-navigate controls and access to key systems, including navigational aids and engine diagnostics.

The signature Axopar steering wheel further enhances functionality, integrating essential controls like sound and engine trim, ensuring the captain can make adjustments without distraction while underway. Every detail has been thoughtfully executed to enhance both functionality and enjoyment on the water.

The accommodations, accessed via a short set of stairs, provide a cozy retreat for two or a perfect spot to escape the midday sun. Thoughtfully designed, the space features extensive seating, making it highly functional and inviting.

The main bed is positioned lengthwise in the bow, maximising comfort and efficiency. Gullwing doors on either side of the cabin offer easy access and the option to flood the space with natural light and fresh air when desired.

Alternatively, the cabin can be accessed through an entryway conveniently located next to the helm. There is also a toilet located down here for convenience.

The highlight of testing an Axopar boat is, without a doubt, the driving experience. These boats are meticulously designed for sheer enjoyment, and it is impossible not to revel in the remarkable capabilities of their hulls.

The thrill is not just about speed—though that is undeniably exhilarating—but also about the harmonious blend of comfort, precise controls, sharp handling, and the silky-smooth ride. What stands out is how these boats drive like a smaller vessel, offering exceptional manoeuvrability, ease of handling, and overall enjoyment for the owner.

Powered by triple 300hp Mercury outboards, the boat effortlessly leaps onto the plane. Paired with the stepped hull design, it creates a unique sensation of the hull gliding across the water with minimal effort, delivering both performance and efficiency.

At the helm, all controls are intuitively placed within easy reach, whether you prefer to stand or sit. Personally, I favour standing, as it provides the best sense of control and visibility, especially when navigating at higher speeds.

That said, the boat is just as comfortable in more relaxed scenarios, like cruising along a scenic coastal river or making the trip to Rottnest Island. In these moments, you can let the boat do the work while you sit back and enjoy the ride.

The triple 300hp outboards are the maximum power the Axopar 45 hull can accommodate—and they deliver more than enough muscle for an exhilarating ride. With a top speed of 50 knots (we achieved 46 on test day), the experience remains impressively controlled and composed, never feeling reckless or unstable. In fact, the hull’s stability is so exceptional that it leaves you with the thrilling impression that it could handle even greater speeds.

Where the Axopar 45 truly excels, however, is in its handling. The hull performs beautifully during turns, carving through the water with effortless precision. Whether executing tight manoeuvres or sweeping arcs, the boat responds seamlessly, instilling confidence in the driver while ensuring guests remain completely at ease. This harmony of performance and comfort is what makes the Axopar 45 a standout on the water.

The Axopar 45 Cross Cabin is the ultimate choice for those seeking outdoor enjoyment with the added convenience of enclosed spaces when needed. This is not a boat that simply sits idle, waiting for an outing—it is a vessel designed for action.

The seamless and versatile design makes the Axopar 45 Cross Cabin an ideal adventure craft, a stylish entertainer, and a comfortable overnighter. It is a boat that invites exploration and ensures every outing is as enjoyable as it is memorable.

Model: Axopar 45 Cross Cabin
Length overall: 13.90m
Beam: 4.11m
Draft (to props): 1.0m
Hull weight: 7000kg