How Does the Axopar 37 Handle Offshore?
Rough Sea Performance Review
Offshore performance boating is in Axopar’s DNA, and their commitment to excellence is evident in every new model. When designing the second iteration of the Axopar 37, the naval architects started from the hull up, dedicating twice as much time to engineering the new hull compared to the series one. This dedication has resulted in a boat that is fast, efficient, and provides a comfortable ride in any condition.
Now, five years later, we are revisiting the Axopar 37 to celebrate the milestone of over 100 units in Australia and New Zealand. To mark this achievement, Russell and Joe from the Eyachts team took the Axopar 37 Cross Cabin for a test off the coast of Sydney in less-than-ideal conditions. With swells ranging from 3 to 4 meters, this was a true test of what this 37 adventure boat is made of.
Hull Design
The Axopar 37 is renowned for its innovative hull design, which plays a crucial role in its exceptional performance. Here’s a closer look at the features:
- Sharp Reverse Bow: The bow’s very sharp entry is designed to cut through choppy water, reducing impact and even out the ride. This reverse bow is the longest part of the vessel, ensuring it maintains contact with the ocean first to slice through waves effectively.
- Chines: The main chine extends forward and deepens towards the rear. This feature catches and redirects spray back into the ocean, providing significant lift when hitting chop or waves, thus ensuring a smoother ride.
- Twin Stepped Hull: Axopar’s hull includes twin steps that suck air underneath, allowing the boat to ride on a layer of bubbles. This design massively increases efficiency, making the Axopar 37 very fuel-efficient.
- Deep V Hull: The deep V at the back complements the overall hull design, ensuring superior performance and handling in varied conditions.
“With its revolutionary hull design, the Axopar 37 glides over the water, turning challenging offshore conditions into a smooth and exhilarating ride.” – Russell Ayers.
Engine Specifications
Engines: Equipped with the new Mercury V10 350 engines.
Torque and Efficiency: These engines are torquier and more fuel-efficient compared to the previous inline 6 models.
Collaboration: Designed in conjunction with Mercury to optimize performance specifically for the Axopar 37.
Performance
Acceleration: Rapid acceleration with seamless transition from idle to planning speed – No lose of vision from idle to planning speed.
Top Speed: Achieves up to 50 + knots in favourable conditions.
Turning: Maintains high speed in sharp turns with minimal speed loss. Demonstrates exceptional stability and control in tight manoeuvres. While executing a sharp turn at 38 knots, the Axopar 37 held its speed impressively, only dropping to 36 knots before quickly accelerating back to 38 knots, showcasing its ability to grip the water like a sports car on the road.
Straight line tracking: The boat tracks in a straight line effortlessly, even at high speeds of 40 knots, with minimal noise and vibration.
Active Trim: The active trim feature ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, adjusting as conditions vary.
“From idle to planing in seconds, the Axopar 37’s Mercury V10 350 engines deliver unmatched torque and fuel efficiency. It’s like having a sports car on the water.” – Russell.
Fuel Efficiency
Idle Speed: Burns about 3 litres per hour per engine.
Slow Cruise (22-24 knots): Approximately 35 litres per hour per engine, giving a range of about 220 nautical miles with a 10% reserve.
Optimum Cruise Speed (28-30 knots): Slight increase in fuel consumption, around 37-38 litres per hour per engine.
Fast Cruise (38 knots): Consumes about 70 litres per hour per engine.
Key Features
Cabin Comfort: Minimal noise and vibration at high speeds, allowing for normal conversation. Cushioned landings are a result of the hull allowing water to pass outwards via channels and chines, therefore less bouncing and forceful impacts with the water.
Single Lever Control: The ability to use one level while offshore enhances safety and ease of handling in rough conditions. The dash is set up masterfully for ergonomic control of the vessels features in motion.
Dry Deck Design: The hull design effectively keeps water off the decks, ensuring a dry ride. Any water caught in motion is immediately vacated via self-draining system and the full walkaround means for no pooling in any area of the vessel.
Handling and Offshore Performance
Taking the Axopar 37 offshore is where the boat’s capabilities truly shine. During a boat test between Pittwater and Sydney, with Joe Fox at the helm, the swell was forecasted to reach 3 meters from the southeast. As the boat headed out from Barrenjoey Heads, it faced these large waves head-on. To maintain comfort while navigating directly into the swell, the speed was reduced to around 20 knots.
Once conditions allowed, Joe adjusted the course, positioning the waves at a 30 to 40-degree angle off the port bow. This change in direction enabled the boat to increase speed to around 30 knots without launching off the waves, resulting in a much smoother ride.
As the Axopar 37 approached Long Reef, the wave tops reached 4 meters, but the boat handled these challenging conditions with ease, demonstrating its robust design and superior offshore performance.
“Whether navigating tight turns at high speeds or cruising comfortably through rough seas, the Axopar 37 proves that performance and safety can coexist beautifully.” – Russell Ayers.
“The Axopar 37’s ability to tackle 3-meter swells at 30 knots with ease truly sets it apart. This boat isn’t just built for adventure; it thrives on it.” – Joe Fox.
The Axopar 37 Cross Cabin excels in performance, efficiency, and handling, making it an ideal choice for adventurous boating enthusiasts. Its innovative hull design, powerful Mercury V10 350 engines, and superior handling in offshore conditions set it apart as a leader in its class.
For more information on the Axopar 37 and other models, get in touch and experience the ultimate in boating performance and innovation.