The DFNDR range, robust, adventurous boats
XO Boats is a Finnish manufacturer of robust aluminum crossover boats, renowned for their marine quality. The DFNDR range, read Defender, comprises two models, designed for professional use - military, security - as well as leisure. In the Nordic countries, this type of boat, known as a Commuter, enables people to travel quickly to archipelagos, where many have second homes.
At 8.03 m long and 2.53 m wide, the DFNDR 8 is the smallest model in the range. Its transportable size makes it easy to tow on the road, with a good-sized car. It is available as a single-engine outboard, but will be easier to maneuver with a twin-engine version.
An aluminum shell with a deep V
Like all models in the range, the DFNDR 8 is built on a deep-V aluminum hull with a polyester deck. Today, the shipyard has three production sites in Finland and Poland, and is beginning to use more and more aluminum in the construction of its boats.
A versatile crossover boat program
The new model has been designed as a versatile crossover for a wide range of activities, as Sales Director Henrik Thelen explains: "The time we have is getting shorter and shorter, because we're doing more and more things. So we came up with different ways of using the boat. It's a safe and fun sport-fishing boat, a swimming boat, a commuter... The DFNDR 8 is a multi-activity boat."
The DFNDR 8 retains the XO brand design, with its black aluminum shell, black handrails, elongated lines and narrow profile. Unlike the DFNDR 9, which features a center console and recessed pass-throughs, the smallest model has a full-width cab and small side pass-throughs. Last but not least, the DFNDR 8 can be transformed into a T-Top boat by opening the side windows.
