In an announcement dated 8 September, BRABUS Marine presented the new Shadow 38 range, a 38-foot family of high-performance luxury powerboats built around two different power levels: the 850-horsepower BRABUS Shadow 850 XC Cross Cabin and the 1,000-horsepower BRABUS Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin. The range promises two distinct ways to experience the same platform, combining the latest BRABUS Marine performance engineering with a choice of driving personalities.
Created through a close partnership between BRABUS and Axopar, the new boats bring together advanced engineering, the unmistakable BRABUS design language and detailed craftsmanship. Performance, comfort and practical everyday use on the water were central to the development of both models.
The Shadow 850 and Shadow 1000 share their underlying platform, styling and versatile layout, but their handling characteristics differ significantly. The Shadow 850 XC Cross Cabin takes a more refined, Gran Turismo-inspired approach, prioritizing relaxed high-speed cruising and long-range capability. The Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin is positioned as the sharper, more performance-oriented model, with rapid acceleration, agile handling and a notably more dynamic character.
The Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin is the flagship of the Shadow 38 generation and is intended to signal BRABUS Marine’s future direction. Its official world premiere is scheduled for the Cannes Yachting Festival, taking place from September 8–13, 2026. A press conference is scheduled for September 8 at 2:00 PM CEST.
The BRABUS Shadow 850 XC Cross Cabin uses two Mercury Verado 425 V10 outboard engines, producing a combined 625 kW / 850 horsepower. Its top speed can reach 55 knots. Strong mid-range torque is intended to support stable and controlled high-speed cruising, while the naturally balanced V10 configuration provides smooth, predictable responses in changing operating conditions. The result is a powerboat with a composed and sophisticated temperament that remains engaging at the helm.
The Shadow 850 follows the Gran Turismo idea of combining spirited performance with refinement. It is aimed at owners seeking both high output and the ability to cover longer distances, moving from energetic coastal driving to relaxed cruising and extended journeys in comfort.
At the other end of the range, the BRABUS Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin is powered by twin Mercury Racing 500R V8 outboard engines. Together, they deliver 735 kW / 1,000 horsepower, while the boat can reach up to 60 knots. Immediate throttle response and rapid acceleration are intended for owners who want to experience the platform in its least restrained form. Its character is defined by raw power, precise control and a strong visual presence.
Drawing on the design and performance philosophy of bespoke BRABUS supercars, the Shadow 1000 transfers the German luxury brand’s high-performance identity to the water, pairing speed with elegance. As the range’s flagship, it is the most powerful and uncompromising version of the new Shadow 38.
Both boats were engineered to bring performance, comfort and intelligent functionality together in one 38-foot platform. The concept reflects BRABUS’ One Second Wow mission, with carefully integrated elements designed to make an immediate impression while combining capability, usability and onboard comfort in a versatile day boat.
The exterior is distinguished by a pronounced silhouette and numerous exposed carbon-fiber components typical of the BRABUS brand. The helm features a BRABUS steering wheel, advanced navigation equipment and two Simrad multifunction displays, creating a driver-focused setting suitable for both fast runs and longer trips. Inside, newly available premium marine upholstery creates a lighter, warmer and more contemporary environment inspired by larger luxury-yacht interiors. Durable materials and close attention to detail are used throughout the cabin and living areas.
A range of deck configurations allows owners to adapt the Shadow 38 to high-speed cruising, watersports, outdoor gatherings, relaxation and overnight stays. Optional activity platforms increase the usable area beside the water, while configurable aft-deck layouts, integrated wet-bar options and ample storage enable owners to tailor the boat to their individual lifestyles.
The Shadow 38 represents a major stage in BRABUS Marine’s development, bringing together the combined knowledge of BRABUS and Axopar in the most advanced generation of their long-running collaboration. Its bold styling, modern technology and uncompromising engineering are intended to establish the future course of BRABUS Marine.
By making two clearly differentiated power configurations available on one platform, BRABUS Marine is expanding its range while allowing customers to choose the driving character that best suits their boating style.
The complete BRABUS Shadow 38 range will make its official world premiere at Stand 160 in Port Canto during the Cannes Yachting Festival from September 8–13, 2026, with the Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin taking the lead role. The Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin is also scheduled to be displayed at the Monaco Yacht Show from September 23–26, 2026.
Local pricing is available through eyachts HERE.
