Fjord 41 XL is an exquisite day cruiser, possibly the best in its class, a model that justifies the reputation of its builder who has once again delighted us with an excellent model that charms with both style and performance
The nautical market has never seen a greater offer of luxury daily cruisers, but let’s not forget the trend was started by the now legendary model Fjord 40. Still, no matter how legendary a model is, the nautical market does not appreciate stagnation and cherishes innovation above everything else, so it’s no wonder that two years ago this builder debuted the successor of the 40 – the all-new Fjord 41 XL. We had the opportunity to test it at this year’s Biograd Boat Show, where this model had its Croatian premiere.
Sharp lines and a completely flat bow are recognizable feature of this builder’s models. As hard as they might try, other builders fail to copy the look and feel of Fjord models, their aesthetic based on the absolutely minimal hull lines, just in step with standards and tastes.
The classic narrow stripe of side windows present on previous models has been replaced by a wide stripe of side windows that expands towards the center of the boat. The high sides protect the cockpit interior, with only the windshield of the command console and the T-top in Fjord’s recognizable utilitarian style with no unnecessary elements rise above them.
We began our test with a walk, starting aft. The platform is absolutely huge, and is available with a hydraulic lowering system to descend below the surface.
It is difficult to talk about the design of the aft part of the cockpit since there are as many as eight versions, differing by the number and size of sunbeds and movable or fixed benches – including the option of a completely empty cockpit. We tested a unit with layout F2, which happens to be the most popular due to its useful and practical features.
The largest part of the cockpit is occupied by the central sundeck, under which there is a storage room and the entrance to the engine compartment. Despite the width of the sunbathing area, the side aisles are wide enough for easy movement, as are all parts of the deck. At the top of the sundeck there are movable backrests that can allow for turning the sundeck into another row of seats, with two folding tables. Behind them, there is another row of seats which, thanks to the movable backrests, can also face forward during navigation.
Up ahead, dividing the guest area in the cockpit and the command console, lies a double bar with a sink, an induction cooker and refrigerators at the base. The three helm seats lean against the bar, with one seat port and two seats starboard, next to the helm. The control panel is an example of classic utilitarianism, but with a pleasant clean aesthetic. The layout is as logical as it visually pleasing, with the raised part reserved for multi-function navigation displays, and a separate smaller display immediately below is reserved for engine data.
The central part of the console is occupied by the throttle levers and the joystick for steering in crowded marinas, while the lights and anchor winch switches are placed on a small separate stainless steel panel. The cockpit in its entirety is protected by a high windshield, and the owner gets to choose whether the windshield is connected to the T-top or not. The T-top comes with tinted glass skylights, as is common with Fjord models, providing the feeling of open space even under the T-top.
The entrance to the interior leads to a small cabin that connects all the cabins, with a small sofa, with other versions available where this cabin is replaced by a galley or a day head. The master cabin boasts standing height and plenty of natural light, thanks to smartly placed portholes, as well as small skylights and windows in the superstructure.
Sharp lines and a completely flat bow are a distinctive feature of Fjord models
The large bed with the headboard towards the bow is surrounded by side passages up to half of its length, which is a rather luxurious feature on a boat this size. The aft VIP cabin comes with an equally spacious bed and plenty of natural daylight, but with a smaller entrance that requires some bending. The head is equipped with a sink, a toilet and a spacious shower cabin.
In navigation, the new Fjord 41 XL is nothing but joy, from its power of acceleration to 20 knots in 10 seconds, to the precise controls that react promptly or full-throttle turns with minimum loss of speed. This model guarantees fun, but doesn’t forget quality – in movement, there are almost no sounds coming from the boat itself, speaking of the quality of construction.
The declared cruising speed with two Volvo D6-440/DPI engines is about 30 knots at 3000 rpm, and with a consumption of 100 liters per hour, and the maximum speed we achieved was 38.5 knots, with a consumption of 173 liters per hour. All in all, the new Fjord 41 XL is an outstanding day cruiser, perhaps the best in its class. This model justifies the reputation of its builder, who has once again delighted us with an excellent model that charms with both style and performance.
Photos Fjord
