Under cover
We often say, "Let’s go for a breezy ride." A boat should be open, and trips are best enjoyed in good weather, with a gentle breeze and warm sunshine. On scorching hot days or during chilly autumn weather, it’s tempting to stay indoors, especially when the sea is rough. While there’s some truth to that, the call of adventure doesn’t fade with the seasons or the weather.
And that’s where cabin boats come into play. At first glance, you might think, "What kind of compromise is this? Where’s the thrill, the freedom?" But after spending a day on one, you realize—this is freedom in its truest sense!
Inside, it’s warm and dry, with panoramic windows offering a 360-degree view of the scenery. Its optimized hull and powerful engines cut through waves effortlessly, ignoring nature's whims. You can play your favorite music, pour yourself a hot cup of tea, and sail toward the horizon, watching grey clouds chase each other across the sky.
Such a boat is more than just a means of transportation. It’s a mobile office with an ocean view, a cozy living room on the water, and a reliable companion ready for any adventure, regardless of the weather forecast. Most importantly, it extends the boating season by several months—or even all year round, as long as the waters aren’t frozen.
The versatility of cabin boats is truly appealing. They’re perfect for overnight trips, fishing, and even towing water skis or wakeboards.
Technohull XPD (14.85 m)
For the Greek manufacturer of high-speed maxi RIBs, an explorer boat may seem like an unusual choice. Nevertheless, Technohull sees the potential and introduced the XPD model this May. This cruiser seems born for adventure: it combines the reliability of Scandinavian boats with the elegance and comfort of Mediterranean yachts. It can easily handle a storm today and conquer Mykonos or Bodrum in style tomorrow.
The ultra-modern Dynastream hull, featuring a deep V shape, longitudinal steps, high sides, and reverse sheer, is designed for maximum performance and comfort even in the roughest seas.
The forward-leaning windshield creates a dynamic silhouette while reducing glare during nighttime navigation.
The cabin features a fully equipped helm station, three comfortable seats, and a rear sofa with a table. The layout can be customized—for instance, increasing seating at the helm or in the lounge area. When the weather is pleasant, the side doors and roof hatch slide back, and the large aft window opens to create a seamless space that transitions smoothly into the cockpit.
A large sunbed in the aft lounge area embodies Mediterranean glamour. The sunbed also provides ample storage space for toys, including an inflatable boat for exploring hidden coves or reaching the shore without docking the main boat.
The XPD 46 has a beam of 4.4 meters. The side walkways leading to the bow are spacious. In front of the windshield lies a second sunbed, which conceals a large storage compartment for sports gear and other essentials.
In the bow section of the salon, like a quiet retreat, lies the master cabin, with its entrance discreetly hidden behind a door near the helm station. Inside, you’ll find a spacious double bed inviting you to relax. Plenty of storage spaces ensure a home-like feel, while a private bathroom adds even more comfort. In the aft section, there’s a guest cabin with a large double bed for cozy nights after thrilling adventures on the waves. For those who prefer to leave the helm to a professional captain, there’s an additional cabin tucked under the aft sunbed.
The interiors of the cabin and cabins are finished to a high standard. Luxury and sophistication are evident in every detail, from the design and choice of materials to the elegant stitching on the upholstery.
With various engine options (inboard or outboard) delivering up to 1,800 hp, the XPD 46 reaches a cruising speed of around 35 knots and a top speed of nearly 60 knots!
"The Expedition series is a significant step in our development. This new family in our lineup expands our boundaries and strengthens the brand’s market position," says Gerasimos Petratos, CEO of Technohull, with enthusiasm. "Designed for those who crave adventure and year-round cruising, the XPD 46 masterfully combines extreme capabilities with Technohull's signature comfort and renowned seakeeping qualities. Its flexible superstructure and numerous well-equipped deck areas make it perfect for entertainment and exploration, no matter how far your journeys take you. And, of course, our signature luxurious finish is something truly special."
Saxdor 400 GTO (12.4 m)
Fold-down bulwarks are a popular technical solution today, but they usually only extend the transom and cockpit area. Saxdor has taken it a step further, extending them all the way to the helm station. As a result, the boat’s beam reaches 5 meters, providing plenty of space to move around the galley without disturbing the chef preparing freshly caught fish. Above the unfolded starboard bulwark, you can arrange a corner sofa for relaxing by the water.
The roof extends far beyond the cabin supports, reaching the full width of the hull. In bad weather, flexible transparent Isinglass screens slide out from hidden compartments, enclosing the cabin completely!
The swim platform is separated from the sunbed by a transparent partition, ensuring that those lounging on the aft sunbed can still enjoy the view of the water.
At the stern, there are two tall coamings: one on the starboard side for storing fenders and another on the port side, concealing a small bar with a grill. The idea is to cook outdoors rather than inside the cabin.
Saxdor has cleverly created a hidden sleeping area where you’d least expect it. By lifting the left side of the aft sofa, you’ll find steps leading to a cabin beneath the sunbed. Inside, it’s more spacious than you’d imagine, with plenty of natural light from three windows. If you remove the central sunbed, an emergency hatch provides additional lighting.
The bow lounge area is centered around a teak table with adjustable height and seating on all four sides. With the push of a button, the forward-facing section of the sofa rises to the level of the helm seats while sliding backward. The backrest can also be adjusted for added comfort.
The galley in the cabin, located on the port side, is equipped with storage compartments, a sink, kitchen utensils, and two refrigerators.
The helm station features a 16-inch multifunction Simrad NSO display, offering a range of tools for precise route planning, a 9-inch Simrad Go screen with an intuitive interface, and a Simrad P79 depth sounder. The helm station includes a pilot seat and a comfortable double passenger seat.
The master cabin occupies the bow of the boat. It boasts a generous ceiling height of 1.83 meters and is impressively bright. Above the triangular bed, there’s a large emergency hatch that, when open, provides easy access to the forward cockpit and allows luggage to be quickly lowered into the cabin. Another sleeping area is located under the stairs. The spacious bathroom includes an electric toilet and a shower.
In total, the boat offers five sleeping berths, making it perfect for family trips or outings with friends.
The cruiser is powered by two Mercury Verado V8 outboard engines, each delivering 300 hp, or two V10 engines with 400 hp each. The first hull of this model was equipped with the maximum setup. A pair of ten-cylinder engines propelled the boat to 46 knots. With 300-hp engines, this nimble Saxdor reaches speeds of up to 38 knots.
The additional torque of the 400-hp V10 engines ensures more responsive handling and a smoother cruising pace, making them the most popular configuration choice.
Last year, Crown Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum received his white Saxdor 400 GTO. Naturally, the Dubai royal heir spares no expense, but knowing the scorching sun of his emirate, he opted for the Finnish brand’s cabin boat.
Navan C30 (10.23 m)
"Nav" as in "navigation" and "van" as in "minivan." Combined, they form Navan (emphasis on the second syllable)—the name of a new Scandinavian-style boat brand from Brunswick Corporation, which also owns Sea Ray and Boston Whaler. Currently, Navan’s portfolio includes one 30-foot model in two variations: the C30 with a closed cabin and the S30 with a center console under a T-top.
The deep-V hull with two steps is the result of countless sleepless nights by Brunswick’s engineering teams. You’ll effortlessly handle turns (even as the Navan C30 exceeds 45 knots), marvel at its maneuverability, durability, and smooth ride. Its shallow draft, extended swim platforms on either side of the outboards, and optional bow platform make it easy to approach wild shores. As a bonus, it also boasts excellent fuel efficiency.
The cabin’s exterior, with its straight lines, panoramic windows, and reverse-angled windshield, calls to mind models from Swedish and Finnish brands. The cabin is spacious, with sliding doors on both sides, allowing entry from either the port or starboard side. The rigid roof features two large transparent hatches. Pro tip: store kayaks, paddleboards, or even bicycles on the roof. Necessary mounts are included, and the overall impression of the boat is that it can carry an entire house, given the abundance of storage options onboard.
In its standard configuration, the boat is equipped with industry-leading technology and equipment from Simrad. Electronics are controlled via the latest version of the C-Zone operating system. The compact helm station includes two 12-inch displays, an ergonomic steering wheel, and a bow thruster. Optionally, you can add a joystick for the Mercury outboard motors.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find the helm station, two rows of seats, and a small wet bar with a refrigerator, sink, and cooktop. In bad weather, you can prepare tea, coffee, or snacks without stepping outside into the rain or cold. On sunny days, you can enjoy alfresco dining. The rear window of the cabin lifts upward to form a transparent canopy, while the windowsill folds out into an additional, larger wet bar equipped with an electric grill.
The cockpit features a soft sofa upholstered in high-quality vinyl with decorative stitching. Drinks can be stored in a refrigerator built into its base. If you have a large group onboard (the boat accommodates up to 12 people), you can fold down two additional seats attached to the bulwarks. A folding teak table with two supports can be quickly set up in front of the sofa. The deck also hides a storage compartment for water toys, with enough space for a Seabob and additional gear.
You can access the bow area via walkways along the sides—Navan C30 is designed with a walkaround layout. The bulwarks are high enough to ensure safety even in rough seas. In front of the windshield, there’s a large sun lounger with adjustable headrests. The windlass and anchor are easily accessible, and an optional wide platform with a non-slip surface can be installed above it, making it easy to disembark when mooring bow-in. It also doubles as a diving platform.
On the starboard side of the helm station, there’s a door leading to the bow cabin. Inside, there’s a wide double bed and a small but functional bathroom with a shower, sink, and toilet. The cabin is well-lit thanks to a hatch and two full-length windows. In the evening, beautiful LED lighting along the walls and ceiling creates a cozy atmosphere.
The engines, naturally, are from Mercury (also owned by Brunswick). Depending on the buyer’s preference, the boat can be equipped with a single 300-hp Verado V8, a 400-hp V10, a pair of 225-hp V6s, or two V8s with 250 or 300 hp.
XO DFNDR 9 (8.7 m)
The letters "XO" are familiar to any connoisseur of fine, strong "masculine" beverages—they signify extra old cognac, a mark of quality promising rich aromas and bold flavors. And what yachtsman doesn’t enjoy a good cognac? The letters also stand for "executive officer" on navy ships, the second-highest-ranking crew member. These flattering associations may have crossed the minds of the Finnish brand XO’s founders, but the name actually stands for "CrossOver."
The model featured in this review is the DFNDR 9. The nod to the most famous and charismatic off-road vehicle of all time, the Land Rover Defender, is more than obvious. Interestingly, the brand’s lineup also includes a boat named DSCVR—a "sibling" to the equally iconic Land Rover Discovery. So, if you’re looking for a cabin boat with the rugged vibe of a legendary off-roader, XO is the way to go.
The DFNDR 9 is an all-purpose seafaring boat, 8.7 meters in length, ideal for leisure, expeditions, and water sports. It comfortably sleeps two people, and optional side walls and covers can be added over the cockpit.
The DFNDR 9 is the first XO model with a center console. This layout will appeal to anglers, as the cabin may feel a bit snug, but it allows for unrestricted movement along the deck with a fishing rod, giving you the perfect angle to reel in a big catch.
The aluminum hull is protected by a rubber rubbing strake around its perimeter, which comes in handy during lock passages or side-to-side docking. However, it’s positioned high enough that you’ll still need fenders when docking at a regular pier. The stern has additional protection, and the bow is covered by a separate bumper.
The boat’s exterior is distinctly utilitarian, full of references to off-road vehicles built for serious terrain. The deck is covered in a practical non-slip material that’s easy to clean. The thick, sturdy rails have a matte finish, unlike the shiny stainless steel rails found on most yachts and boats, making them low-maintenance.
The aft lounge area, with its sofa and table, is highly versatile. The table easily folds out to double its size, and the rear sofa in the cabin can be laid flat to merge with the aft sofa, creating a large sunbed. Additionally, the backrest of the cabin sofa can be flipped forward, allowing you to face the table. By sliding the cabin’s side doors all the way back, they shield those seated at the table from the wind—a simple yet practical solution. Spacious storage compartments for fenders and mooring lines are built into the hull on both the port and starboard sides.
The cabin, with its panoramic windows, accommodates up to four people. The rear sofa can fit three, provided they aren’t bulky anglers dressed for cold weather. The front seats feature flip-up bolsters and spring-loaded bases, ensuring comfort even at high speeds in rough conditions—a design borrowed from professional high-speed vessels. The suspension can be adjusted to suit the occupant’s weight using a convenient dial.
With two Mercury 225 V6 outboard engines, the boat can reach speeds of over 45 knots. Its durable aluminum hull, deep-V design, and Lenco Marine Trim Tabs make the DFNDR 9 a true off-road vehicle for the water.
