It has taken me three years to write this review because I genuinely hoped I wouldn't have to. Unfortunately, I don't want other customers to go through what we've experienced.
We purchased a brand-new Axis A225 built to order. The day we picked it up, it was overcast and raining, making it difficult to thoroughly inspect the boat. Had we been able to see it clearly, we would not have accepted delivery.
The cosmetic issues were extensive. The gel coat had significant imperfections and metallic overspray throughout the boat. The passenger-side seat backrest was visibly uneven and wavy. There were scratches, cracks in the Surf Gate caused by overtightened screws (which were never properly repaired), and the boat arrived with the wrong swim platform. We paid for upgrades that were either missing or incorrectly installed, including the Power Wedge, which had to be replaced because it was damaged during installation.
Getting these issues addressed was an uphill battle. We were repeatedly dismissed and treated as though our concerns were unreasonable. At one point, a technician asked my husband, "Is this your first boat?" My husband was raised on a marina, and we've owned multiple boats. We know the difference between normal imperfections and unacceptable workmanship.
Throughout the following season, the shaft seal leaked continuously, causing the bilge pumps to cycle regularly. Before the next season, we brought the boat to Chessie for service. We later learned the boat was never actually serviced. Some recall work was completed, but the scheduled service was not performed.
The result was a terrifying experience on the water. While cruising on the river, alarms started sounding and every bilge pump activated. The boat was rapidly taking on water in over 150 feet of water while simultaneously overheating. Smoke was coming from the engine compartment, and I genuinely believed the boat was on fire. I called 911 because we thought we were going to sink.
My husband ended up jumping into the water and helping get the boat to shore. I was taken home by the fire department while he waited for Sea Tow as a storm approached. We later learned the sea strainer had come completely loose and the shaft seal had failed again. Had the boat actually been serviced, these issues likely would have been identified before they nearly caused the boat to sink.
Now we're dealing with another issue: a Wedge Drag Alarm. My husband followed every troubleshooting step provided by Chessie and was told to call back. After four follow-up calls, no one responded.
Unfortunately, this lack of customer service has been consistent. When we were ready to place our order and bring a $40,000 deposit, we drove more than two hours to the dealership only to discover our appointment had effectively been forgotten because the salesperson was at a golf tournament.
We spent approximately $150,000 on this boat. Instead of enjoying it, we've spent years dealing with manufacturing defects, installation errors, warranty repairs, service issues, safety concerns, and long periods without the boat.
Based on our experience, I cannot recommend either Axis or Chessie Marine. read more
