A competitive market
Initially produced in the Nordic countries, where the numerous islands are perfectly suited to this type of boat, the Commuter is attracting more and more boatyards. As a result, similar models have appeared from American manufacturers such as Wellcraft and, more recently, the Brunswick Group's new brand, Navan. Although a little larger, the Navan C30 - 8.99 m long - offers a similar design but a more comfortable layout, with a double cabin and galley. Priced at ?207,000 incl. VAT, it is powered by a 225 hp Mercury outboard.
At 8.75 m long, the Axopar 28 Cabin is also slightly larger than the DFNDR 8. Although again similar in design, it offers a layout more dedicated to cruising. Price: ?60,600 ex works, bareboat.
In the pure Commuter market, the Nimbus C8 is 7.93 m long. It nevertheless offers a separate double cabin below deck, and comes in at ?133,920 incl. VAT.
Finally, if we look at the market for aluminum hulls, such as the DFNDR 8, we can compare it with the Buster Magnum, which is shorter at 7.5 m in length. Inside, the layout is similar, with a wheelhouse featuring bench seating, and a similarly sized forward cockpit, but without a sundeck. The brand is imported into France for Yamaha, but we have no pricing information to report.
Pricing in line with competitors
The XO DFNDR 8, with its two 200 hp Mercury outboard motors, is priced at ?150,000 incl. VAT. For a fully-equipped boat, certain options nevertheless seem compulsory. For example, side cabin seats with storage lockers and mattresses are not included as standard, so you'll need to add ?3,480 to the base price to get enough space to accommodate several people on board.
Other options are also included on our test model. For example, the front sundeck is a ?1,620 supplement. The sleeping supplement, to transform the wheelhouse into a double bed, is ?1,320. As explained, our model was equipped with a sliding rear door, an option included at ?3,240.
Although many items of equipment are not included in the total price of the DFNDR 8, once selected they set a final price in line with the competition, with a boat fully equipped for various programs. All in all, the DFNDR 8 comes in at a final, fully-equipped price, including electronics, of ?198,168.
