Saxdor 400 GTC Review (2024 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

At the bow, the anchor is almost integrated into the hull, with a launching mechanism hidden under a stainless steel frame. Built-in nav lights and stainless steel plates engraved with 'Saxdor 400' are fitted to the sides. The drop balconies hinge up 90 degrees when underway and drop down when stationary, opening up the boat.

Shore power is integrated into lockers. Pop-up cleats carry Saxdor logos. An optional glass transom at the stern can close off the back of the boat, helpful for families with small children or dogs.

The rear deck includes an outdoor barbecue and a small sink. The upgraded lithium battery pack powers equipment through an inverter without needing a generator. Engineering spaces, including Mastervolt lithium systems and a diesel tank for heating and cooking, are accessed through deck hatches.

Controls for the drop balconies are found on deck, along with a storage locker for ropes and fenders. A diesel filler cap is also located here.

The sunbed at the stern is adjustable. Levers allow the backrest to tilt and the base to slide forward, expanding the lounging area depending on how much deck space or sunbathing area is needed.

The bi-fold door at the back can open right up at the press of a button, making the rear bulkhead disappear. A folding table nearby can either be left open for dining or folded away to free up space.

At the bow, there’s another dinette area with a folding, height-adjustable table. This space can be turned into another sunbathing spot with a cushion set. Grab handles add security. The anchor is launched via a simple system - releasing the chain allows the frame to tilt forward and drop the anchor.

Extra features include a roof-mounted light bar with powerful spotlights, a night vision FLIR camera, and radar at the top of the boat.

The main deck has a galley fitted with a diesel-fired hob, twin fridges (one on either side), a sink, and storage areas. A cover closes over the galley when not in use.

Above the helm is a powered solid sliding roof, the alternative being a canvas roof. The helm itself has an upgraded triple-display system showing Zipwake trim tabs, navigation, and engine instruments. A secondary screen monitors the boat’s systems, including power management and audio. There's a Scanstrut wireless charger, a bow thruster control, joystick engine controls, a remote for the screens, a VHF radio, and a foot brace that can either be folded away or used to brace while standing. Helm seats have lift bolsters for standing or seated driving.

On the lower deck, the main saloon features a big double bed at the front with a hatch underneath, shelving, and a hanging locker. The seating here can be adapted - pulled out for a bigger seat or pushed back for more floor space. The heater control and stereo control are nearby. All circuit breakers are accessible from this area.

A heads compartment includes a shower, sink, mirrored cabinet, and toilet under a lift-up panel. Under the main cabin floor is a storage area that can double as a berth for a child or small adult if needed.

Owner Cabin

The main double bed cabin at the front of the lower deck serves as the owner’s cabin. It is fitted with shelving, a hanging locker, a heater control for diesel-fired central heating, stereo control, and close access to the heads compartment.

Guest Accommodation

A convertible cabin is hidden under the seating on the main deck. The seat base pulls out, and a button lifts the backrest, revealing steps down into the cabin. With the mattress and windows option fitted, this small cabin is bright and comfortable. It includes lockers, reading lights, and heating connected to the diesel system. Without the optional extras, it would otherwise be a large storage area.

Another optional guest sleeping area can be created under the main cabin floor in the lower deck saloon by adding a mattress, useful for families needing overflow accommodation.

The standard engine fit is twin 350hp Mercury outboards, but the boat featured is upgraded to twin 400hp engines. Expectations are that these can achieve around 50 knots flat-out, with a cruising speed of 30-40 knots.  

The upgraded lithium battery pack replaces the need for a generator and powers high-load systems through an inverter. There is a diesel tank fitted onboard, but only for the heating system and the diesel-fired hob, as the engines themselves are petrol.

Joystick controls allow easy low-speed handling, and Zipwake trim tabs help manage performance underway.

The 400 GTC comes across as a boat designed for real life - easy to move around, simple to adapt, and ready to use properly. Plenty of moving parts, plenty of flexibility, and all of it seems to work just as it should. A smart, versatile choice for anyone looking for something fresh and genuinely usable.