Axopar prepares two U.S. premieres
Finnish boatbuilder Axopar has confirmed the United States premieres of its 38 Sun Top and 38 Cross Top at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, scheduled for 28 October to 1 November. The models will be shown alongside a wide selection of boats from the company's adventure-oriented range.
The event gives American boaters an opportunity to compare different roof and cockpit configurations on the new 38-foot platform. The official announcement is a show invitation rather than a claim that either vessel is a world-first design.
The 38 Sun Top layout
The Sun Top offers a more open experience beneath a protective overhead structure, aimed at boaters who enjoy fresh air and frequent access to the water. It is designed to balance day-boating sociability with the shelter offered by a rigid top.
The format can suit coastal cruising, casual dining and time anchored in sheltered water. Exact sun protection and enclosed accommodation features depend on the boat's specification.
The 38 Cross Top alternative
The Cross Top provides another interpretation of the 38 platform, offering a different roof structure and weather-protection arrangement. Its inclusion at the show demonstrates how Axopar has expanded the design beyond the Cross Cabin model.
Prospective owners should move between the two boats to judge visibility, passenger movement and suitability for their intended climate. Neither version eliminates the need to plan passages around changing sea conditions.
A shared approach to versatile boating
Axopar has built its reputation on practical layouts, walkaround movement and multi-purpose use. The 38 range follows that philosophy, giving owners options for leisure outings, island-hopping and more active coastal trips.
For families, the ability to move safely from bow to stern can be particularly important. Visitors should inspect grab rails, freeboard and steps on the exact exhibition boats before making a decision.
A wider 2026 fleet
The company also plans to bring the 38 XC Cross Cabin, 45 Cross Top, 29 Sun Top and 29 XC Cross Cabin to its main waterfront display. The wider line-up allows boaters to compare different hull sizes and cabin types.
The manufacturer's official programme additionally lists the 45 XC Cross Cabin and other models at the Broward County Convention Center. Visitors should check which craft are at the waterfront and which are indoors.
BRABUS Marine joins the show
Axopar's announcement includes BRABUS Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin and the larger Shadow 1500 XC Cross Cabin, both from the high-performance BRABUS Marine collaboration. These boats place a different emphasis on distinctive styling and engine power.
The Shadow 1000 XC is listed as a U.S. premiere, making the joint presentation relevant to customers comparing premium performance boats. Details of engine packages and optional equipment should come from the current manufacturer specifications.
Bahia Mar and Convention Center displays
The main Axopar and BRABUS display is planned for the F/G dock at Bahia Mar Yachting Center, while additional models will be at the Broward County Convention Center. The exhibition uses several locations across Fort Lauderdale.
Visitors who wish to compare all listed craft should allow enough time to travel between sites. The show offers shuttles and water taxis, but the actual connections should be checked before arrival.
Meeting the boats in person
A hands-on walk-through can reveal differences that are not obvious in a brochure, particularly around helm seating, access from the cockpit and the balance of protected and open space. Axopar is inviting visitors to explore the boats with its representatives.
Buyers should use the opportunity to discuss delivery availability, local dealer support and the equipment specified on the demonstration vessels. A show display is not necessarily identical to a production order.
What the U.S. premieres mean
The Sun Top and Cross Top already belong to Axopar's expanding 38-foot portfolio. Their Fort Lauderdale appearances bring the designs to a new regional audience, rather than marking the beginning of development.
That distinction is useful when evaluating other published previews and launch reports. The important new event is the scheduled North American public presentation with models available for inspection.
Dates and visitor planning
The 2026 Fort Lauderdale show runs from Wednesday 28 October until Sunday 1 November. The manufacturer's page provides the listed models and locations for the show, including the new 38-foot variants.
Visitors should confirm operating hours, berth assignments and whether appointments are required for particular models. The scheduled presentation has not yet taken place as of 20 October.