German automotive attitude meets Finnish boatbuilding in two enclosed-cabin models with Mercury outboards, configurable decks, and little interest in going unnoticed.
The horsepower figures are right there in the names. The BRABUS Shadow 850 XC Cross Cabin delivers 850 horsepower; the Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin adds another 150. Neither is making a subtle introduction.
Together, they form the new Shadow 38 range, developed by BRABUS and Finnish boatbuilder Axopar. Both use the same platform and enclosed-cabin layout, with different engine packages defining their personalities.
The Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin is listed for a U.S. premiere at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. For anyone familiar with BRABUS cars, the carbon fiber, distinctive upholstery, and Black Ops finish will look comfortably familiar.
Two Engine Packages, One Platform
The Shadow 850 features twin Mercury Verado 425-horsepower outboard engines, producing a combined 850 horsepower.
For owners looking for an even more exhilarating experience, the Shadow 1000 raises the stakes.
Powered by twin Mercury Racing 500R V8 outboard engines, the 38-foot powerboat delivers a combined 1,000 horsepower and is designed to reach speeds of up to 60 knots under suitable conditions.
The BRABUS Signature
On the Shadow 1000 XC Cross Cabin Black Ops, the automotive influence is easy to spot: a dark exterior, exposed carbon fiber, and branded upholstery carry the BRABUS identity aboard.
The enclosed helm combines navigation displays and vessel controls with the detailed finishes buyers would expect from the brand. It also serves a practical purpose, sheltering the driver and passengers when the crossing is less pleasant than the forecast suggested.
Black Ops is a particular styling treatment, rather than a description of every Shadow 38. The wider range includes other hull colors, upholstery choices, and deck configurations.
A Different Kind of Weekend Escape
The engine choice is only part of the specification. Owners can also select aft-deck arrangements, including an open deck, wet bar, seating, or an aft cabin, depending on configuration.
Optional fold-down activity platforms add space at the water’s edge once the boat is stopped. That matters when the afternoon shifts from covering miles to passing towels and keeping drinks within reach.
Buyers should pay attention to those choices. A boat ordered for entertaining will use its available space differently from one intended for overnight trips or carrying equipment.
The Shadow 38’s strongest selling point is how clearly it expresses its owners’ tastes. The styling is assertive, the power substantial, and the layout open to personal choices. At the boat show, look past the engine badges long enough to check the seating, storage, and cabin. Those are the details you’ll live with between bursts of acceleration.
Explore the model details and specifications at BRABUS Marine.