Axopar 45 Brabus Edition Sea Trial: Real-World Speed, Comfort, and Fuel Efficiency

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like behind the wheel of the new Axopar 45 Cross Cabin BRABUS Edition, here’s the truth — it’s unlike anything else on the water.

In late October, we took this 45-foot adventure boat out on the coast of Maine to see how it performs in real-world conditions. At 31 knots, the boat feels effortless — almost like it’s gliding on rails. The stability, sound insulation, and ride quality are so refined that it’s easy to forget you’re cruising at high speed.

This model, available now as of the posting of this blog from East Coast Yacht Sales for $998,428, is powered by triple Mercury 300s with the BRABUS power package, offering both performance and long-range efficiency in one platform.

From idle to 30 knots in just 10 seconds, the Axopar 45 feels like a high-performance sports car on the water. The acceleration is instant, the handling is crisp, and even at 40 knots, conversation in the cabin is effortless thanks to excellent sound isolation.

The boat corners cleanly even at 35 knots — no sliding, no drama, just smooth carving through tight turns. Its low center of gravity and twin-step hull design give it the kind of control and balance you normally only find in smaller, lighter performance boats.

Whether you’re running along the coast or crossing open water, the 45 stays composed and confidence-inspiring.

Efficiency numbers are just as impressive.

At 31 knots, we recorded around 0.8 nautical miles per gallon, with a range of approximately 260 nautical miles. Even throttling down to 22 knots didn’t change the fuel burn — still around 0.8 NMPG.

That means you can choose to cruise fast or slow depending on the day without worrying about sacrificing range.

At 5,000 RPM, the boat comfortably hits 40 knots while burning about 60 gallons per hour — still within a highly efficient range for a boat of this size and capability.

This is where the Cross Cabin design really shines. The pilothouse stays warm and quiet even in late October in Maine — the kind of comfort that lets you stretch your boating season deep into the shoulder months.

Unlike open center consoles, the enclosed cabin gives you all-weather protection and visibility, with seating for up to 12 people. Large side doors and the open aft deck maintain that signature Axopar connection to the sea without sacrificing shelter.

The Axopar 45 Cross Cabin BRABUS Edition blends luxury with purpose — built for people who actually use their boats, not just store them.

• Top Speed: 50 knots at 6,100 RPM

• Cruising Speed: 31–40 knots

• Range: Up to 260 NM at 31 knots

• Fuel Economy: 0.8 NMPG (consistent across 22–31 knots)

• Price (as equipped): $998,428

This is a boat built for those who want to go farther, faster, and in more comfort — without compromise.

Want to spec your own Axopar 45 Cross Cabin with custom engines, colors, and options?

After a full day running the Axopar 45 BRABUS Edition in real Maine conditions, one thing was clear — it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about how dialed-in and effortless the experience feels. From 22 knots to 50, from calm bays to open swells, the Axopar 45 performs with total composure.

If you’re looking for a new Axopar 45 for sale, or just want to understand what makes these boats so unique, stop by East Coast Yacht Sales — we’ll help you get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself.