With the launch of the Antares 8 at Cannes Yachting Festival, the Antares 7 presented last week at Grand Pavois La Rochelle, signs the renewal of a mythic range of the French shipyard Bénéteau.

Designed entirely by the Beneteau design team, the Antares 7 boasts a new hull design, with improved sailing performance and even better handling. As leisure craft ‘par excellence’, this model aims to provide a good introduction to coastal cruising.

The tulip-shaped hull design of this new model is conceived to deflect waves effectively, but still ensures stability on the water. The Suzuki engines can provide up to 175 HP.

The modular cockpit can be configured to ensure that time spent in the open air is pleasurable. It can be transformed into a spacious sun-bathing area, whilst the rear bench slides to allow the motor to be raised easily.

Access to the sea is achieved via the starboard bathing platform with its retractable steps. When under way a gate closes off the access to ensure maximum safety.

The forward deck can be used as a sun-bathing area, and for easy anchorage the Antarès 7 is equipped with an electric windlass.

Access to the spacious and safe wheelhouse is made through a double sliding door. With its ingenious tilting design, the bench located to the left of the helm station provides a seating area which can face the sea or the saloon.

With its table lowered, at night this area provides additional extra-spacious double sleeping accommodation.

The helmsman’s seat tilts to reveal a cleverly equipped galley area with sink, fridge, stove and storage being provided in this space. The glass surround of the wheelhouse provides panoramic sea views. A sliding roof panel bathes the interior in natural light, and considerably enhances the impression of space. 

There is a full double forward en-suite cabinv and the amount of storage space available is more than sufficient for voyages lasting several days. With its deck port-hole the cabin is wellventilated and well lit. The separate bathroom with toilet is an unusual feature for craft of this size.