This Axopar XC 37 was surveyed in Salterns Marina, Poole by Solent Marine Surveys. These high performance Finnish built boats (and other similar types) are becoming very popular in the Solent Area.
Often used as a ‘commuter’ type vessel, they can be seen transiting at high speed between either Lymington or Hamble and various Isle of Wight harbours such as Yarmouth or Cowes.
Described by the manufacturer, Axopar Boats OY of Finland as the “all weather performer”, these designs are an alternative to the Botnia Targa and Sargo type ranges, and come with outboard engines rather than inboard diesel engines.
Blisters to gelcoat under cushions
High build quality
These vessels are of a high-quality build and the cored FRP construction of this particular example was sound. Moisture readings to the hull, topsides and deck were generally low, indicating a low level of moisture within the laminate.
Readings to the transom however, were higher, implying possible moisture was present within the plywood reinforcement to the transom.
This is not an uncommon issue with power vessels with either outboards or with sterndrives.
In this case hammer sounding to the area was satisfactory suggesting there was no delamination. Our advice was to monitor the transom and be aware that the plywood reinforcement may require remedial work in the future.
Surprisingly some moisture related blistering was found to the deck seating under the cushions, demonstrating that you shouldn’t leave cushions outside as they do get damp and trap the moisture!
Performance over accommodation
The Axopar 37 does include accommodation, although the offset for the high performance is that the accommodation is rather more limited than one might expect from a vessel of this length. As is often the case, a choice is made between accommodation and performance, and the Axopar 37 is an example of a vessel with an emphasis on the performance side.
Petrol or diesel?
Cowes Harbour Fuel Berth
In the UK, the preferential treatment for marine diesel fuel does impact the choice a buyer makes between boats with petrol outboards and boats with marine diesel inboards.
Any buyer would be well advised to check the prices at their local marina for both fuels.
The pre-purchase/full condition survey inspects the hull, structure, superstructure and all the ancillary items. Its purpose is to establish the overall condition of the vessel in terms of defects, wear and tear, maintenance, and quality of build. It will also identify and assess any significant past repairs, damage, or other factors in the structure or systems affecting the integrity, safety, or seaworthiness of the vessel.
Please do contact us discuss your survey requirements.