Home | DFNDR SERIES | XO DFNDR 8
Key Information
Length
8.03m | 26.34 ftBeam
2.53m | 8.30 ftTop Speed
50+ knMax Passengers
8Berths
2
XO DFNDR 8 – Aluminium Adventure Boat Built for Serious Boaters
Compact, capable and award-winning in its own right, the XO DFNDR 8 delivers genuine offshore performance in a slightly more agile package than its larger sibling, the DFNDR 9. Featuring a deep-V military-grade aluminium hull, twin-engine performance exceeding 50 knots, and versatile layouts, it is designed for experienced boaters who want confidence in real-world conditions rather than just fair-weather fun on the water.
Built by XO Boats, the DFNDR 8 brings the same exhilarating performance, reliability and safety that has earned XO Boats a global reputation among serious enthusiasts and professionals.
Purpose-Built for Serious Boaters
XO Boats have earned an international reputation for building boats that thrive in demanding environments. Their distinctive combination of deep-V military-grade aluminium hulls and advanced fibreglass superstructures delivers exceptional strength, performance and refinement. Lightweight yet incredibly robust, XO Boats are engineered for owners who value confidence, safety and capability when conditions become challenging.
Military-Grade Aluminium Construction
The DFNDR 8’s sharp-entry deep-V aluminium hull slices cleanly through chop and maintains stability at speed. When equipped with twin Mercury 225HP outboards, the DFNDR 8 is capable of speeds in excess of 50 knots, while delivering composed, predictable handling offshore. Built for boaters who head out when others head in, the hull gives confidence to explore shallow bays, remote beaches and rugged coastlines without concern.
Advanced Ride and Stability
The DFNDR 8 comes standard with Seakeeper Ride and the Vessel Attitude Control System (VACS). These systems reduce pitch and roll, improving control and comfort while providing a smoother, more stable ride in a wide range of sea conditions.
Versatility for Real Adventures
Despite its rugged capability, the DFNDR 8 is extremely versatile. With sleeping space for two and optional toilet and shower facilities, it is equally suited as a superyacht tender, offshore fishing platform, diving and exploration boat, or high-performance weekend adventure boat.
Customise Your XO
Owners can tailor the DFNDR 8 to their style. Choose between an enclosed cabin or open configuration, with optional side enclosures, and customise navigation electronics, seating, canopy options, electrical upgrades and even heating or air-conditioning for extended all-season boating.
Supply of the XO DFNDR 8 in Australia is limited. Please contact us to discuss current build availability, configuration options and delivery timing.
Australian Delivery and Pricing
All TABC pricing includes Australian delivery, GST, registration and chart card with mapping for your cruising region.
Prices have recently been reduced to reflect the strengthening of the Australian Dollar against the Euro, with the benefit passed directly on to Australian customers.
The Adventure Boat Company is the exclusive Australian importer of XO Boats, with more than 80 premium European boats delivered to Australian owners.
Price shown is for the base model.
Profile and Floor Plans
Specifications
- Length8.03m | 26.34 ft
- Beam2.53m | 8.30 ft
- Weight estimate (incl. engine)1986 kg
- Draft to props0.93m
- Outboard engines2×225 hp
- Passengers8
- Berths2
- ClassificationC-Coastal
- ConstructionALU/GRP
- Max speed estimate50+ kn
- Fuel capacity700 L (185 gal)
Standard Inclusions
DFNDR 8
The Reviews
TopRik
topRik experts talk about their experience testing the Finnish crossover XO DFNDR 8, accompanying the review with photos and reviews of famous yachtsmen, which were published in popular yachting media, as well as some informative video reviews.
Yacht buyer – video review
If how a boat drives is important to you then this sea trial and review of the XO DFNDR 8 demands your attention.
It’s a boat whose design includes a few flaws and compromises but as a pure driving machine, there is very little at this size that can compete, as Jack Haines discovered during this in-depth tour and sea trial.
Motor boat & yachting – video sea trial
At the recent Finnboat Floating Show, Motor Boat & Yachting’s Alex Smith got the chance to take a test drive of the XO DFNDR 8…
BoatLife – Video review
If you need a tough, fast and cosy commuter that you can squeeze into any dock then the XO DFNDR 8 could be perfect for you!
With a toilet, all weather cabin and aluminium hull she’s a superb way of getting out to your remote cabin, batch or lake house by the water and will easily double as an adventure boat for those day trips full of fun!