XO DFNDR 9

XO DFNDR 9 – Award-Winning Aluminium Adventure Boat Built for Serious Boaters

Winner of Adventure Boat of the Year at the 2023 Motor Boat Awards, the XO DFNDR 9 combines genuine offshore capability with intelligent Scandinavian design. Featuring a deep-V military-grade aluminium hull, twin-engine performance exceeding 45 knots, and a remarkably versatile layout, 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 9 delivers an exceptional blend of exhilarating driving performance, safety and all-weather usability.

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.

The aluminium hull provides remarkable durability and offshore capability, while the carefully engineered superstructure delivers the comfort and finish expected of a premium Scandinavian design. The result is a boat that is lightweight yet incredibly robust — engineered for owners who value confidence, safety and performance when conditions become challenging.

Award-Winning Offshore Capability

The XO DFNDR 9 blew its competitors away to win Adventure Boat of the Year at the prestigious 2023 Motor Boat Awards, recognised internationally for its design, performance and versatility.

Built for boaters who head out when others head in, the DFNDR 9’s deep-V aluminium hull delivers impressive handling and control even in rougher sea conditions. With twin Mercury 225HP outboards, the boat is capable of speeds in excess of 45 knots, delivering exhilarating yet composed performance offshore.

Advanced Ride and Stability

The DFNDR 9 now comes standard with Seakeeper Ride and the Vessel Attitude Control System (VACS). These advanced systems automatically control the boat’s running attitude, reducing pitch and roll while improving visibility and comfort.

Combined with XO’s proven aluminium hull design, these systems deliver a smoother, more stable ride across a wide range of sea conditions.

A True Driver’s Boat

Performance is central to the XO experience. A wide range of engine configurations are available, including twin Mercury 225HP outboards with joystick and Skyhook positioning, the powerful Mercury 450R, and Yamaha options.

The DFNDR 9’s exceptional hull design, ergonomic helm position and suspension seating combine to create a driving experience rarely found in boats of this size.

During his sea trial, respected marine journalist Dan Jones described the experience as:

“It’s just delightful — this feels like a high-quality sports car.”

And commenting on the helm:

“It feels like a fighter jet, it really does.”

Versatile Design for Adventure and Weekends Away

The DFNDR 9 cleverly combines the practicality of a commuter boat with the comfort of a capable weekender.

Despite being under 9 metres, the layout includes:

• Full walk-around deck for safe movement around the boat
• Forward cabin with double berth and ensuite toilet
• Convertible four-person dining area
• Comfortable daybed for relaxing at anchor

The cockpit is designed for true all-season boating, featuring large sliding glass doors on both sides and a full sliding sunroof. Everything can be closed for protection during cooler weather or opened completely to capture summer breezes.

The rotating second-row seating easily converts into a comfortable dining area once you arrive at your destination.

Technology and Navigation

The DFNDR 9 can be equipped with a full suite of advanced marine technology including Simrad navigation systems, Fusion premium sound systems, and joystick docking with Skyhook positioning.

A powerful bow thruster further simplifies manoeuvring, making docking straightforward even in tighter marina berths.

The bow area also features a cleverly designed protected daybed space, ideal for relaxing at anchor or enjoying a quiet picnic. The anchor system is fully integrated with a retractable windlass, keeping the bow clean while still allowing easy access when boarding from the front of the boat.

Supply of the XO DFNDR 9 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.