Axopar 29 Sun Top Review: More Confidence, More Control, More Performance

From a traditional sports boat to two-time Axopar owners

For Steven and Raina Raben, boating didn’t start with Axopar.

Like many owners, their journey began with a more traditional sports boat, a setup that, in hindsight, never quite delivered the confidence or enjoyment they were looking for.

“We did have one non-Axopar boat… it was a single hull sports boat.”

Discovering Axopar changed that completely.

Why choose Axopar over a “traditional” sports boat?

Having owned both, Steven and Raina are quick to point out the contrast.

“It was just no fun.”

The shift to Axopar wasn’t just about design, it was about how the boat actually feels to drive.

“The hull shape is really unique… it gives us that confidence.”

That confidence is what defines the ownership experience, not just in calm conditions, but when things get a little more challenging.

Why upgrade from the Axopar 22 to the Axopar 29 Sun Top?

Having already experienced the Axopar difference, the move to the 29 wasn’t about learning something new, it was about building on something that already worked.

“It was really easy because the layout’s familiar, the handling is very familiar… it’s just been seamless.”

What stood out immediately was how the 29 amplified everything they loved about the 22, especially when it came to performance and capability.

“We’ve gone from a boat with a small engine to a boat with a big engine and a bit more space… and now we can go faster.”

Where the Axopar 22 delivered fun and agility, the 29 adds another layer, confidence at speed and in bigger conditions.

“The 22 is an amazing little boat… but the 29 just gives you that extra level of confidence. If you’re in bigger swell, it just slices through it. It’s beautiful to drive.”

For anyone comparing Axopar 29 vs Axopar 22, this is the real upgrade, not just size, but control, composure, and the ability to push the boat further.

How does the Axopar 29 perform in Australian conditions?

One of the defining characteristics of the Axopar range is how predictable and composed it feels underway, something that becomes even more noticeable in the Axopar 29.

“You’re able to get up to 30 knots and it’s nothing… it’s just beautiful.”

That effortless performance translates directly into confidence on the water, whether cruising Pittwater or heading into more open stretches.

“If you were in bigger swell, it just slices through it.”

Compared to their earlier experience with a traditional sports boat, the difference is clear: more stability, more control, and far more enjoyment.

Axopar’s signature twin-stepped deep V hull is a big part of that experience. Designed with hydrodynamics first, it reduces drag while maintaining grip and balance, allowing the boat to plane earlier, run more efficiently, and stay composed at speed. The sharp entry cuts cleanly through chop, while the stepped design stabilises airflow under the hull, resulting in a ride that feels both soft and controlled. The outcome is a rare combination, a boat that delivers fuel-efficient cruising alongside confident, high-speed performance in a wide range of conditions.

Is the Axopar 29 Sun Top easy to drive?

While they are now not beginners themselves, one of the standout qualities they highlight is just how intuitive the boat feels.

“They’re really easy to handle. You don’t need to have too much experience or expertise.”

“You can just really… get in and they’re so stable and so fast.”

That balance of performance and simplicity is a big part of what makes the Axopar range so widely appealing; it delivers capability without complexity.

How do you use the Axopar 29 Sun Top?

Boating in Pittwater and the Hawkesbury with the Axopar 29

For the Rabens, the formula is simple, and it’s exactly what the boat is built for.

Living on Pittwater, their boating is all about flexibility, short trips, overnight stays, and making the most of what’s right on their doorstep.

“We do a lot of day boating. We’ll go up the Hawkesbury… we go overnight to Berowra Waters. We’ll hire an Airbnb that has an on-water pontoon… it just gives us a lot of flexibility.”

The added size and capability of the Axopar 29 opens up more options, without changing the ease of use. And with that confidence in the boat, new areas feel well within reach.

“We haven’t gone into the harbour yet, but we’re pretty confident that we can.”

It’s that combination of social boating and performance that defines the Axopar experience.

What’s next with the Axopar 29?

With more power and space comes the chance to expand how they use the boat.

“I’m actually looking forward to getting something to tow… we’ve never towed before. It gives us the opportunity to invite more people onto the boat.”

It’s not just an upgrade in boat size, it’s an upgrade in possibilities.

What does an Axopar adventure mean?

At its core, it comes back to the experience.

“Friends, family, day on the water, good food, good wine, and going fast.”

And most importantly, the confidence to enjoy it.

“It’s just been such a fantastic way to get into boating in a way that really helps you feel confident.”

How has the experience been with Eyachts?

The ownership journey extends beyond the boat itself.

“The service, the attention, the communication is fantastic. We have nothing to complain about… it’s all been great.”

Final thoughts: Is the Axopar 29 Sun Top worth it?

For Steven and Raina, the journey from a traditional sports boat, to the Axopar 22, and now the Axopar 29 Sun Top, has been one of continuous improvement.

More confidence.
More control.
More performance.

And just enough extra power to bring out that “speed demon” every time they head out.