THE BOAT

CONNOISSEURS

For Nikki Durden and her husband Matt boating is about adventure, spontaneity, and versatility, and it just so happens that the Axopar 37 range ticks those boxes. Boat connoisseurs as they are, they started their journey as Axoparians on the 37 Sun Top and have since moved over to the 37 XC Cross Cabin, which suits their needs better and gives them even more multifunctionality in the ever-changing Pacific Ocean. Based in Pittwater in Sydney, Australia, they seize every opportunity to take their boat, named Imirian, to secluded anchoring spots in the national parks surrounding the Sydney region to enjoy effortless days on the water with family and friends.

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Togetherness is at the core of their boating adventures, making Imirian a favored gathering place for them and their friends. The Durdens’ usual adventures consist of exploring new and familiar places, anchoring somewhere stunning, going for a swim, enjoying some finger food, and popping open a bottle of champagne. Effortless fun on an effortless vessel.

The 37 Cross Cabin perfectly balances performance and practicality for Nikki and her family. One of Nikki’s favorite things about their boat is how it allows for spontaneous offshore adventures. The Axopar is just so easy to use and maintain. "You don’t have to overthink it—you can just decide in the morning and be out on the water in no time."

Thanks to the smooth ride and offshore capability of their adventure vessel, they’ve also taken trips beyond Pittwater, cruising to Sydney Harbour and Manly with friends. “Because of the stepped hull, you aren’t going up and down—it just cuts through the waves, even in bigger swells. It’s so easy to steer, and it planes beautifully.”

Her absolute favorite destination? Smiths Creek, a hidden turquoise haven in the Hawkesbury.

“I’ve been there before on a sailboat, but how fast we can get there on the Axopar is mind-blowing. I’ve had two amazing days there—one for a friend’s 50th with a group of girlfriends and another just after Christmas. Swimming, eating, drinking—it was just perfect.”