Axopar 38 Boat – Exclusive First Look With Jan-Erik Viitala
Everything you need to know about this next generation adventure boat
The Axopar 38 Boat has just been announced, and Eyachts had the privilege of sitting down with Axopar Co-Founder Jan-Erik Viitala for an exclusive walkthrough. In this conversation with Eyachts’ Joe Fox, Jan-Erik reveals insights into the design philosophy, new innovations, and how the Axopar 38 builds on the incredible legacy of the Axopar 37.
As Jan-Erik explains, “Every conceivable function of the 37 has been improved on the 38, there is so much more we can offer with the bigger, more volumous 38.”
This is not just another model launch, it is Axopar’s most ambitious project yet, created to deliver more livability and freedom of choice.
Why Did Axopar Decide to Build the Axopar 38 Boat?
The Axopar 37 has become a true icon, used by everyone from first-time boat owners to seasoned professionals, even governments and film crews. But according to Jan-Erik, boating habits are changing:
“We’ve seen such a tremendous community of 29 and 37 owners asking for more livability and comfort on board as boating evolves. The 38 answers that call.”
This feedback from customers and dealers drove the design of the Axopar 38 Boat, ensuring the model would suit both long-distance explorers and weekend cruisers.
The Bow – What Options Are Available on the Axopar 38?
One of the biggest changes is at the bow. Instead of a fixed design, the Axopar 38 Boat offers multiple layouts.
“On the foredeck, you can create a full U-shaped sofa with storage underneath. You can add sun pads, a table with high and low positions, or even opt for the much-loved forward sunbed from the 37, now redesigned,” says Jan-Erik.
This flexibility allows owners to create a social entertaining area, a full sun lounge, or maximise deck space for activities.
The Aft – What New Features Does the Axopar 38 have?
The aft area has been completely reimagined. Owners can choose from multiple options, a wet bar, a sofa, a leaning post, or a full aft cabin with a sunbed. But perhaps the biggest innovation is the option for an aft-opening windscreen.
“We’re going to have it as standard with a fixed windshield, but now also a fully openable windshield at the aft,” says Jan-Erik. “It completely changes the airflow and the communication between the saloon and the aft deck.”
This creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, a huge improvement for climates like Australia.
Performance – How Fast Is the Axopar 38 Boat?
Drivability remains Axopar’s top priority.
“The No. 1 function of a boat should be that it drives and behaves well. Whatever Axopar is doing in the future will never compromise drivability. We focus on innovation, not gimmicks,” Jan-Erik states.
The Axopar 38 Boat features a newly designed hull, twin 300 hp or 350 hp outboards, and speeds exceeding 45 knots. With 830 litres of fuel capacity, it balances efficiency with long-range capability – a true adventure boat built for offshore exploring.
Development – How Long Did the Axopar 38 Take to Design?
Creating the world’s most modular boat was no small task.
“We’ve been working on it for almost three years,” says Jan-Erik. “The complexity of making four different models with interchangeable modules is why no one else is doing it. It’s time-consuming, costly, and hard, but that’s what makes Axopar unique.”