NEW SAXDOR 400

Elliott Maurice replaces his much-loved Axopar with an all-new Saxdor 400 GTO

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The sheer variety of new boats is greater today than it has ever been. It means that now, more than ever, you can buy a boat that precisely matches your intended use and style.

For my part, I had become sold on the idea of replacing my old Axopar with the excellent Fairline F33, before a new kid on the block arrived to muddy the waters. Just prior to me pulling the trigger on a Fairline demonstrator model, Saxdor released its brand-new flagship, the 400 GTO. Having witnessed its launch at the Palm Beach boat show in 2024, I got the chance for a private question-and-answer session with none other than the founder and chief designer, Sakari Mattila himself - and it's clear to me that Sakari is very much led by customer feedback. He pays enormous attention to the small flaws to produce a production boat where all the niggles have been ironed out. In terms of build, it's probably closer to mid-range brands like Beneteau or Regal than to premium brands like Fairline, but what really struck me is how incredibly well designed the new 400 range is. Marine Max, Saxdor's US dealer, was hosting a press event just after the show, where they were happy to arrange a private sea trial for me. I happily agreed and was met at the dock by Sakari and Erna Rusi, Saxdor's charming CEO.

THE SEA TRIAL