Saxdor 400 GTO Review (2023 Edition) by NautiStyles

On Deck

A defining feature of the Saxdor 400 GTO is its fold-down aft bulwarks, which increase the beam from 3.5 meters (11.5 feet) to 5 meters (16.5 feet), transforming the aft deck into an expansive lounging space that feels like a private island when the yacht is at rest. Both port and starboard transom doors open, and two swim platforms flank the outboards, connected by a central bridge, making it easy to move around after a swim. A full stainless-steel transom shower is fitted here, along with a grill area featuring a barbecue and sink.

Forward, the bow cockpit is compact but still comfortable for up to six people. Integrated rails ensure safe access, and there are dedicated fittings for a bow shade. A hi-lo table in this space can be lowered and turned into a sunpad. Beneath the bow seating lies the anchor locker, discreetly hidden from view.

On the starboard side, there's a large storage compartment currently used for fenders, while shore power access is also located here. The exterior napping area aft extends into a full daybed and can be retracted with the press of a button to increase walkway space and reveal the bilge access.

A drop-down backrest transforms the aft seating into a social zone, with optional cupholders and a small bar area built into the galley station on the port side. Guests can sit directly on the fold-down bulwarks with their feet in the water - a design that really leans into relaxed, barefoot entertainment.

Instead of a traditional interior galley, the Saxdor 400 GTO features a compact external galley on deck. Located to port amidships, it includes a cooktop, sink, fridge drawers, and storage. On production versions, the layout will be slightly refined to split the galley for bar use and add integrated cupholders.

Inside, the wheelhouse is protected by a hardtop and includes a full-beam open layout with optional soft or solid enclosures. A large openable side window provides natural airflow and noise separation from the outboards when underway. The entire space can be enclosed once the bulwarks are raised, creating a quiet, shaded saloon-like atmosphere.

Forward of the helm, the cockpit includes a three-position seating arrangement: a convertible helm bench, a second row with a flip-backrest, and a third row around the fold-out table. 

At the helm, the layout is ergonomic and practical, with a fold-up footrest, large solar-tinted windshield, and dual openable sunroofs. The console features three Simrad screens, a zipwake trim tab display, wireless phone charging, and illuminated rocker switches for key systems. Joystick control is integrated with a variable-speed bow thruster.

Cabins

The forward cabin is surprisingly generous for this size of yacht, with a queen-size berth, plentiful headroom, and extensive glazing including skylights and side windows that fill the space with natural light. A central hatch above the berth opens for added ventilation, and the cabin is fully air-conditioned (with the system able to run on battery power). There’s also a compact sitting area, a hanging locker, integrated JL Audio entertainment system, and full access to breakers and switch panels.

Amidships, a second cabin is tucked beneath the helm area. Despite its compact entry, it opens up to what appears to be a king-size berth. Access is via fold-out steps, and the space is air-conditioned with openable portholes and an overhead hatch. This area can double as guest sleeping quarters or be repurposed for water toy storage.

There’s also an additional compact cabin that could function as a children’s berth or overflow guest space. Though small, it includes a soft nightstand zone, storage, air conditioning, and enough space to accommodate another sleeping cushion.

The Saxdor 400 GTO is built on a vacuum-infused GRP hull with a twin-stepped V21° running surface. This prototype version was fitted with twin Mercury V10 400hp outboards - the top-tier option. The standard powertrain is twin 300hp, with 350hp and 400hp upgrades available. With maximum power, the yacht reaches a top speed of 35-45 knots, delivering both fast cruising and efficient performance.

Beneath the aft deck lies a technical compartment housing batteries and essential systems including the bilge pumps. The head compartment also provides secondary access to the electronics behind the helm for ease of maintenance.

The Saxdor 400 GTO is a fresh take on the 40-foot sports cruiser. As hull number one, this prototype showcases bold design ideas - from fold-down bulwarks and full-beam wheelhouse access to clever convertible seating and dual sleeping cabins. With unique modular zones, open-plan wheelhouse, and generous exterior entertainment spaces, it suits day boating just as well as extended weekenders.

Designed in Finland and built in Poland, the 400 GTO delivers good value alongside sharp styling and thoughtful touches throughout. With production refinements already in motion, it’s shaping up to be a standout flagship in the Saxdor range.