U.S. manufacturing begins for Saxdor
Saxdor Yachts has completed the first American-built 320 GTO at Malibu Boats Inc.'s facility in Fort Pierce, Florida. The company announced the milestone on 19 October 2026 as it prepares to exhibit at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
The Finnish builder already manufactures in Europe, with operations in Poland and Finland. The Florida facility brings production of selected models closer to customers across the Americas.
The 320 GTO starts the programme
The new production line begins with the 320 GTO, a versatile walkaround boat aimed at owners who want performance and leisure space in a compact package. Saxdor states that the first American-built example is complete and serial manufacturing is getting underway.
No exact retail price or delivery date for that specific hull has been published. Buyers should confirm where their boat will be made with the dealer handling the order.
A smaller model will follow
Saxdor says the 270 GTO is next in line for the Fort Pierce facility, with manufacturing expected to expand as the team gains experience. The company has not committed publicly to a detailed production timetable for every boat in its range.
Local production can improve logistical flexibility, though it does not automatically guarantee a shorter wait for every model. Lead times depend on specifications and the production schedule.
Malibu Boats supports the expansion
Saxdor is now part of Malibu Boats Inc., giving it access to a U.S. manufacturing and commercial network. The company sees the move as part of a broader commitment to the American recreational-boating market.
Saxdor and MarineMax also plan to involve Malibu dealers in regions not covered by their existing dealer network. The arrangement aims to make sales and service more accessible.
More support for regional owners
Newly appointed dealers in Canada, Argentina and the Caribbean are among the company's recent expansion measures. Together with the Florida factory, these arrangements create a wider base for customers in the Americas.
The value of a dealer often becomes clear after delivery, when technical guidance or replacement components are needed. Owners should confirm service coverage in their particular location.
The updated 350 GTW joins the show
The company will bring its revised 350 GTW to the Fort Lauderdale show, introducing changes to the wheelhouse and interior. It is an evolution of the 340 GTWA, not the first American-built 320 GTO.
Two sliding doors can now open fully, allowing a more direct connection between the wheelhouse and the outdoors. The manufacturer also offers an optional L-shaped sofa and extra bow-cabin storage.
Revised comfort and engine choices
Saxdor's updated 350 GTW incorporates an air-conditioning arrangement integrated into a redesigned helm console, as well as additional flooring finishes. The boat can be specified with twin Mercury Verado V10 engines rated at 350 horsepower each.
These options offer different ways to configure the boat for day cruising and longer excursions. Owners should request current equipment details rather than assume every show boat is identical to a standard production version.
Digital assistance aboard
The builder continues to adopt onboard systems including Simrad AutoCaptain for docking assistance and Boat IQ for information presented on a boat's multifunction display. Boat IQ connects with Saxdor AI, a digital knowledge resource developed with Cadentia.
Such features are intended to support the skipper, not replace human judgement or safe operating procedures. Owners need training and knowledge of local navigational rules.
Six models for Fort Lauderdale
The announced display includes the 460 GTC, 350 GTW, 400 GTS, 400 GTC, 320 GTO and 270 GTO. Visitors can find Saxdor's fleet at Bahia Mar, FG Dock, slips 23–27, during the show from 28 October to 1 November.
The selection gives buyers a chance to compare compact recreational boats with larger cruising models. It is advisable to confirm a private viewing and the current berth information.
A first step rather than the end of expansion
The confirmed news is the completion of the first U.S.-built 320 GTO and the start of American series production. Additional models, growing dealership coverage and continued technical training remain part of Saxdor's stated development plan.
The official press photograph accompanying this article shows the revised Saxdor 350 GTW, not the first Florida-built 320 GTO. The company's next milestones will depend on production progress and demand.