Saxdor Yachts, a benchmark brand in the entry-level small yachting sector, has been acquired by Malibu Boats, Inc. (MBI), the American builder specialized in the design, production and marketing of small “fun-oriented” motorboats (fishing boats, center consoles, wakeboard boats), founded in 1982 in Loudon, Tennessee.
The news was announced in recent days by the Finnish shipyard through a press release, which highlights that the acquisition—worth around €150 million (175 million US dollars)—will allow Saxdor to operate as a subsidiary of MBI while maintaining its brand identity and full operational autonomy.
Thanks to this synergy, the Finnish boatyard will gain access to significant resources, well-established infrastructure and a shared vision of innovation, all key elements to support its international growth.
Saxdor, which in recent years has recorded annual revenue growth of 65%, increasing from €109 million in 2024 to €180 million in 2025, has become one of the fastest-growing boat manufacturers in the world. The fleet includes ten models ranging from 20 to 46 feet, and the company employs nearly 1,000 people.
For its part, MBI generates more than 800 million dollars in annual revenue, has over 2,000 employees across eight production facilities, and sells more than 5,000 boats every year.
This is therefore a major acquisition, one that promises to open up new and interesting commercial and technological opportunities in the small boat segment.
Saxdor Yachts: new opportunities in the premium boating market
With its entry into the Malibu group, Saxdor aims to strengthen its international presence and expand into the most dynamic markets, with a particular focus on North America. The recreational boating segment, which according to SSI data (2023–2025) is expected to grow at a CAGR of 15%, offers fertile ground for Saxdor’s expansion, also thanks to its adventure yachts and its ability to attract a young clientele eager for new experiences at sea.
Malibu’s portfolio, known for boats dedicated to water sports, luxury runabouts and offshore fishing—and already including the brands Malibu, Axis, Cobalt, Pursuit, Cobia, Pathfinder, Maverick and Hewes—is now further enriched by the innovative and efficient production of the Finnish shipyard.
As Erna Rusi, CEO of Saxdor, explains: “This acquisition opens up new growth prospects, combining Malibu’s resources and infrastructure with Saxdor’s unique models and production efficiency. It is a milestone that comes after years of intense work and the extraordinary commitment of our team, which has helped Saxdor grow into what it is today. The cultural compatibility with Malibu is excellent, and we look forward to taking advantage of the development opportunities that a larger organization like this will offer our team.”
Saxdor will continue to operate as an independent global brand, with its own management team and founder Sakari Mattila in the role of Head Designer, ensuring continuity in the creative vision and product strategy.
The union with Malibu therefore represents a highly significant strategic move that not only opens up new commercial routes but also makes it possible to strengthen the brand’s positioning in the premium segment, attract new customers and reinforce Saxdor’s leadership in the global recreational boating market.
