Getting to Know the Astondoa Yachts AS8
The Astondoa Yachts AS8 is a yacht known for strong craftsmanship, smart engineering, and features that support both relaxation and practical living on the water. At 82 feet in length, the AS8 is made for those looking for a larger, yet manageable yacht with proven reliability and a comfortable, open-plan design. With its wide use of clear glass, uninterrupted sightlines from bow to stern, and careful layout, the AS8 is meant to feel spacious and bright. The makers of the AS8, Astondoa, have decades of experience building boats in Spain and are recognized for their nice finishes, good design ideas, and strong, safe construction. The AS8 brings together the style of a modern European yacht with details aimed at making life onboard easier, more enjoyable, and more flexible for different needs.
Owners and guests on this yacht enjoy a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a very open flybridge and cockpit, plus a main deck with deep glass windows and lots of light. It’s a yacht made for socializing and easy movement, supporting everyone from families using the boat for weekends away, to friends planning longer coastal trips, to anyone wanting a comfortable and welcoming space. Over the years, Astondoa has invested in improving insulation for noise and temperature, engineered hulls for smooth movement, and built-in features that make this a strong option for owners who are looking for a balance between form and function.
Understanding what makes the AS8 unique starts with its thoughtful layout and how much care goes into selecting finishes, fitting technology, and planning storage solutions. This boat is not just about looks. It’s about making sure everyday use is easy and comfortable. For people considering an upgrade or a first step into this size of yacht, details like accessible walkways, simple controls, high-quality fixtures, and flexible group spaces matter a lot. Astondoa’s reputation for quality and customer support means buyers often feel more confident, knowing they are choosing a product that has been shaped by years of real-world use and owner feedback. The AS8 is designed to be welcoming, modern, and capable of handling a broad range of activities on the water.
Having a clear understanding of what you want out of a yacht makes it easier to see if the AS8 matches your lifestyle. Whether you are hosting several guests, planning to travel with kids and family, or are more focused on comfort and personal downtime, the AS8 gives you space to adapt on both long and short journeys. It is not just about a nice place to spend time; it is about reliable function, easy maintenance, and making day-to-day onboard living as simple as possible. This approach, combining current style with proven design choices, is why so many people look to the AS8 as a potentially perfect fit for their needs on the water.
Exterior Walkthrough: Big Features and Functional Spaces
Looking at the AS8 from the outside, the first thing that stands out is the seamless integration of deck areas and the use of glass in the superstructure. The long flybridge stretches from behind the helm all the way to the stern, providing plenty of room for sun loungers, a dining table, and lounges that can be configured for either group gatherings or quiet time. The molded hardtop overhead is supported by discreet columns, with sliding panels to allow light in or create full shade on hot days. There is also enough room for a grill, fridge, and outdoor sink on the flybridge, making it easy to serve lunch or drinks without going downstairs.
The foredeck (front of the boat) is another signature area, fitted with thick sun pads and a convertible backrest that folds down flat or props up as a seat. Wide walkways flank each side of the boat, protected by stainless steel safety rails at the right height for both adults and children. The cockpit at the stern offers a shaded seating area, with an L-shaped settee around a large table. Glass doors open flat, connecting the cockpit directly to the main salon, creating one big indoor-outdoor zone when the weather is good.
A standout feature is the swim platform. It sits low above the water and drops down with a hydraulic system, making it easier to launch a tender or jet ski, swim, or even lounge at water level. Steps are built into the stern for a clean look, with extra handholds and a fold-out ladder for added security. A substantial transom garage is hidden by the aft platform, with enough space for a small tender, personal watercraft, or storage bins for water toys. When not in use for water gear, it can be loaded up with folding bikes, fishing gear, or even extra provisioning crates.
Every outdoor seat and lounge has storage with draining lockers underneath, and two large ice chests are built into the table mounts, so drinks and snacks are always close at hand. Forged cleats and big fender bins are located near each deck edge for fast docking, while dedicated holders for boat hooks, lines, and other mooring equipment keep these often-used items tucked out of the way yet close by when needed.
LED deck lights are fitted into every overhang and step, providing clear and gentle light for moving around after dark. All deck surfaces are coated with anti-slip materials specially selected to stay cool and grippy, even when things get wet. There are also plenty of charging points and music speaker zones wired into each main outdoor zone, so you can play your favorite music or charge up devices wherever you are relaxing.
Main Salon and Interior Comfort
Inside the Astondoa AS8, the main salon feels more like a modern living room than a traditional boat cabin. Window lines are set just at the right height, letting in plenty of daylight without sacrificing privacy. The wide-opening glass doors join the cockpit to the salon. Sofas wrap around the port side, underneath large windows. There is also a dedicated entertainment area for a large television and sound system, with storage for remotes, movies, and books.
The entire main level is open plan, meaning you can move from the living area to the table or kitchen without running into partitions or feeling boxed in. Real wood floors, hand-stitched fabric upholstery, and brushed metal trim at corner joints show care in building details. As you walk forward, the dining table can seat six to eight, with movable chairs and a bench that hides extra storage underneath. Just off the dining space is the galley, tucked along the starboard side. This kitchen area has an L-shaped work surface, with full-sized appliances including a refrigerator, freezer, oven, induction cooktop, and deep synchronized sinks for prepping food and cleaning up after meals.
Cupboards and deep drawers have soft-close slides, and glassware racks are shock-mounted to keep plates and cups in place while moving. The countertops are engineered to resist both stains and scratches and provide enough work surface for serious cooking, even at sea. Lighting throughout the salon is indirect LED, with easy-to-adjust dimmers so you can set the right mood for dinners or movie nights. AC outlets and USB charge points are tucked into arms of the main sofa and next to each dining chair.
The helm station is integrated into the front corner of the main deck, with the helm seat elevated on a platform for a commanding view outside. Multiple screens show chart plotters, radar, sonar, and engine diagnostics in easy-to-read formats. All boat controls are touch-based, with backup manual switches for redundancy. There is also a guest stool set next to the helm, so another person can keep the captain company or help with navigation. Big side windows near the helm slide open for quick communication when docking or picking up lines.
Along the passageway on the starboard side, you will find a coat closet, padded shoe bench, and a storage locker for cleaning supplies and dry items. Tinted glass keeps the salon cool, with motorized blinds controlled by wall switches. The main salon feels bright but never too hot or exposed, thanks to both the quality of the glass and the smart use of shades and curtains.
Lower Deck: Staterooms and Cabins
Down the main staircase (wide, with sturdy handrails and gentle lighting), the lower deck of the AS8 is designed for quiet, comfortable sleeping. The layout puts four cabins along a wide, sound-insulated central passage. Each stateroom is fitted with full beds (not fold-outs), real mattresses, and soft, neutral bedding. Insulation around the rooms reduces engine noise, so everyone can sleep soundly even when underway.
The master cabin stretches the full width of the yacht, with extra headroom and a king-size bed centered between two big, opening windows. The master suite includes a walk-in wardrobe, small vanity table, side settee, and TV. Storage drawers are tucked next to the bed and under skirts, while a secure safe and lockable jewelry drawer are built into one wardrobe. The master bathroom features a long glass walk-in shower with adjustable water pressure, double sinks, heated towel racks, non-slip tile floors, and a separate area for the toilet with its own extraction fan.
The VIP cabin is at the bow, with a queen bed, hanging closet, overhead lockers, and private bathroom. Two guest cabins (port and starboard) each have twin beds that convert to doubles if needed, opening side windows, and en-suite bathrooms with porcelain sinks and glass shower enclosures. Each bedroom has its own temperature controls, reading lamps, blackout shades, and small desk or makeup area. Flooring on the lower deck is soft marine carpet, easy to vacuum and wash.
Down the hall, a laundry closet holds a stack washer and dryer, spare linens, and shoe racks. In a nearby locked cabinet is a backup set of tools for minor repairs. All bathrooms have custom wood cabinetry, mirrored medicine cabinets, and motion-sensitive floor lights for nighttime use. Ventilation is handled by a system that can bring in fresh outdoor air or recirculate and dehumidify as needed, keeping the sleeping quarters comfortable in both hot and cooler months.
Kitchen, Storage, and Galley Practicality
The AS8 galley stands out because it was made with daily life in mind, not just occasional snacks. Appliances are full-sized, with a built-in fridge, standalone freezer, induction cooktop (less heat in the cabin), convection oven, and a real dishwasher. There’s also a recessed microwave for fast meals and a wine cooler in the corner. The work surfaces are trimmed with flush-fitting lids and cutting boards, making prep fast and cleanup simple.
Upper and lower cabinets have plate racks, cup holders, and slide-out pantry bins for staples and snacks. The galley is positioned near the side deck door as well, so you don’t need to drag bags or groceries through the salon—just step down and hand them directly inside. Lighting above the counters is bright LED strip lighting, and the back wall is lined with a glass splash shield for easy cleaning. A deep waste cabinet is fitted with separate bins for recycling, compost, and trash, and storage options for cleaning supplies are hidden underneath sinks.
Outside the galley area, crew can set up serving trays on a built-in console, with extra drawers for utensils and supplies when hosting larger parties or dinners. In addition to cabinets inside, lockers outside and underneath seats provide more spaces for long-term supply storage—think paper goods, bottled water, oils, and cleaning gear.
Crew Quarters and Utility Areas
Crew support is important on any yacht large enough to benefit from an extra hand. The AS8 crew quarters are accessed by an independent door at the stern, close to the engine room and mechanical spaces. The main crew cabin has bunk beds, a compact dinette, its own bathroom with full shower, and even an extra mini fridge. There’s a small countertop for making coffee or snacks, and dedicated storage cubbies for uniforms or personal belongings. Power outlets and USB charging points help keep devices ready, while ventilation is separate from the main cabins to give privacy.
One great detail is the direct access from the crew quarters to the engine room, so routine service can happen without walking through guest zones. Some layouts can be ordered with two crew cabins or the space can be given over to more storage. Utility panels and the main switchboard are clearly marked and all main fuses or circuit breakers are reachable without using tools.
Power, Water, and Safety Systems
Systems onboard the AS8 are built for ease, safety, and redundancy. Power comes from two 20kW generators as well as the shore cable setup for dockside charging. The main distribution panel allows for quick switching between generator and shore power. A bank of batteries keeps essential systems running if the main generator is down, and solar charging can be fitted for low-demand standby periods.
The air conditioning uses a chilled water system, letting each cabin adjust its own temperature. Hot water is stored in two quick-recovery electric tanks. Fresh water is kept in a large, stainless-lined tank, with a triple filtering system—good for both drinking and washing. Greywater and blackwater tanks are each fitted with alarms, easy-access outlets, and washdown options.
For safety, the AS8 is fitted with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every sleeping space and the galley, plus a fire suppression system in the engine room. Bilge alarms, high water sensors, and backup pumps provide peace of mind. Exterior safety gear includes life rings, life jackets for every expected passenger, and quick-access locker spaces for flares and emergency supplies. A full toolkit and spare parts box are stored close to both the engine room and the helm for rapid response to small mechanical issues.
Digital Tools and Smart Yacht Features
The AS8 is designed as a yacht that can keep up with today’s digital demands. The navigation suite includes full-screen chart plotters, autopilot, radar with guard zones, sonar/depth displays, AIS (automatic identification system), and a VHF radio. Night vision cameras are positioned at the bow and stern, displayed on any of the main screens.
There are also multiple wired and wireless internet access points on both decks, helping to extend internet and streaming access throughout the yacht. Smart TVs, Bluetooth stereo controls, and linked speaker zones in every cabin and most outdoor decks come standard. For people who want more control, the lighting, blinds, and climate systems can all be set through a touch panel or by app.
Helm displays are touchscreen for navigation, but backup pushbutton controls are there if the touchscreen goes down. Each boat has its wiring clearly labeled and run in colored sleeves, making it easier to upgrade or add gear in the future. USB and AC charge points are spread all over the salon, cabins, and even the outside lounge areas, supporting gadgets and smart devices. Security cameras, motion sensors, and entry alarms are integrated, allowing owners to keep an eye on the yacht when not onboard.
Maintenance and Owner Support
Ease of maintenance is a key selling point for the AS8. The engine room is kept tidy and well-lit, with access pathways wide enough for easy movement around engines, generators, and watermaker pods. Oil filters, raw water strainers, and electrical panels are front-mounted for quick inspection and service. The hull is protected with factory-fitted antifouling paint and zinc anodes. Water systems can be winterized or flushed by following easy instructions kept onboard. There’s also a maintenance logbook and a labeled set of switches for every major system.
Astondoa provides detailed owner manuals onboard that cover every part—engines, electronics, pumps, appliances, and safety equipment. For those who like doing simple upkeep themselves, there’s room for storing tools and spares and a workbench fitted in the lower utility space. Day or night, the lighting in technical spaces makes even small repairs safer.
All hatches lock securely, and emergency exits from the lower deck are simple and unobstructed. Fire extinguishers are mounted in every main zone, and an extra set of emergency tools (like a glass breaker and first aid kit) sits in a marked locker by the main entrance.
Onboard Everyday Life
What is it really like to live on the AS8 week after week? Owners mention that moving around daily feels similar to a small apartment. It’s easy to move from the salon to the cabins, have a meal in the cockpit or up on the flybridge, and set up comfortable spaces for reading, games, or group activities without feeling crowded. The AS8 is wired with easy switches for night lights, and the deck paths are clear and safe after dark. Cleaning up is fast, since surfaces are designed to wipe down easily and all floors are water-resistant.
Having lots of built-in compartments makes packing for longer trips less stressful. Dry storage, chilled lockers for drinks, enough drawers for clothes, and racks for shoes and bags give you space to stay organized. The laundry facilities under the salon mean you can keep up with chores without running to shore.
Bathrooms include both hand showers and rain showers, with heated tile floors that are comfortable after a swim. Extractor fans keep bathrooms dry and fresh-smelling. Cabins can be isolated from the main living space for privacy, which is useful when you have people with different schedules or want to nap while others socialize up top.
Entertaining and Hosting Events
Hosting friends and family is where the AS8’s layout shines. With several spaces for dining, games, or just relaxing, owners can spread out guests between the flybridge (for open-air meals), the main cockpit (a more shaded zone for drinks and conversation), and the foredeck (popular with sunbathers or casual gatherings). The interior main salon supports movie nights or game time, especially with smart TVs and Bluetooth sound control.
Buffet-style meals or group dinners are simple, since serving counters and large tables let you spread out food safely. Outdoor fridges and ice bins on the flybridge and cockpit mean less travel up and down stairs for drinks. There’s built-in storage for glasses, napkins, and serving trays. Big sliding glass doors make it easy to keep conversation flowing between inside and outside zones.
Onboard lighting lets you set the mood for anything from a quiet dinner to a lively celebration, and the boat’s sound insulation means noise from outside doesn’t disturb people resting inside. When the weather turns, covers and enclosures roll down fast to protect furniture and keep outdoor spaces usable—even during rain or windy days.
Water Toys, Gear, and Activities
A highlight for those who like water activities, the AS8 has a stern garage with enough room for a tender, a pair of stand-up paddleboards, or a set of diving gear. A swim platform at water level—with integrated steps—makes getting into the water simple for all ages. Non-slip treads and extra handrails make it safer for kids or anyone nervous about climbing in and out.
There are dedicated racks and lockers for water skis, wakeboards, fishing rods, snorkeling equipment, and inflatables. When not in use, these items are hidden from view but easy to grab. Deck showers are fitted at both the stern and the bow, with hot and cold water. For fishing fans, rod holders and a bait locker are built in. There’s also a swim ladder that folds out with just one hand. Wet gear can be hung up in a special ventilated locker near the swim deck.
Comfort in Changing Weather
One of the biggest differences a well-designed yacht makes is comfort in both hot and cool weather. The AS8’s full glass salon has heat-reducing tint that blocks UV while still letting the view through. Every air-conditioned unit can be controlled separately, so cabins stay as cool or warm as you like. In colder months, floor vents provide quiet, even heating.
Heavy-duty windshield wipers, windscreen heaters, and strong overhead drains channel water off the roof, so you rarely have to worry about leaks or fogging. The yacht’s exterior covers and awnings give you lots of shady spots to read or relax, and quick-snap side curtains keep out wind if you want to be outdoors during a breeze or brief shower.
Storage and Organization: Everything Has a Place
Packing for short or long trips is made easier with a thoughtful approach to storage. All furniture is designed to include storage: cockpit benches, flybridge loungers, the main salon sofa base, and beds all have drawers, cubbies, or lift-up sections. Deep galley drawers fit pots and pans; built-in spice racks and cutlery trays help keep things in order.
In the cabins, under-bed storage is big enough for luggage or seasonal gear. Hanging closets have double rails and shoe racks. Each cabin door is wide enough for rolling bags. Out on deck, lockers for fenders, lines, and tools are within reach of the helm or mooring stations.
Wet gear lockers have watertight drains, so you can store boots and rain jackets without worrying about mildew. At the bow, two pods open to fit folding bikes or extra anchor lines. Even the engine room has labeled bins for spare parts, oil, and tools, so nothing gets lost. The attention to storage details removes daily stress and helps keep the space safe and clutter-free.
Safety Equipment and Procedures
Every AS8 is delivered with a set of clear safety procedures and onboard emergency instructions. Life jackets for all guest berths plus extras for kids are included. Smoke and carbon monoxide sensors in every cabin and mechanical area alert for danger. There are two life rings on deck, throw lines, a grab bag of flares, and an emergency air horn.
Fire blankets are stored in the galley, and each main living area has a fire extinguisher mounted and labeled for fast access. The yacht is fitted with automatic fire suppression in the engine bays and high-water alarms in all bilges. Quick-shutoff valves for fuel, power, and water are labeled and easy to find.
For quick evacuation, there are escape hatches in the forward and mid-cabin areas and ladders to help guests climb out. It’s a yacht designed with owner and crew safety in mind, and clear routines for both regular and emergency use are included in the manuals.
Docking, Navigation, and Handling
Owners new to this size report that the AS8 is much less intimidating thanks to modern docking technology. Bow and stern thrusters allow the boat to move sideways and rotate in tight quarters, which helps when maneuvering in marinas. Electronic throttles have built-in safety stops, and engine alarms signal anything out of the ordinary.
Navigation is made straightforward with touch-screen GPS, chart systems, radar, and sonar that show depth, channel edges, and nearby vessels. All sensors and main controls are collected onto two main helm panels, both accessible from the salon and the flybridge. Communication with marinas is handled via built-in VHF radios and an intercom system between decks.
Underway, the hull design offers steady movement, even through choppy water, thanks to its deep-V bow and flared shape. Trim tabs allow you to adjust the ride depending on load or speed. An autopilot keeps headings steady without constant helm corrections. Backup paper charts and a navigation logbook are stored in a drawer at the helm, while duplicate controls allow safe navigation from both inside and outside.
Long-Range Cruising and Trip Planning
The AS8 is set up for longer adventures, so if you plan to be away from marinas for days, the capacity for fuel, water, and food storage is there. Fuel capacity reaches 1,700 gallons, the water tanks hold 370 gallons, and the dual generator setup means you never have to worry about running out of electrical power during routine use. Backup battery banks supply emergency power for key systems.
The kitchen and storage setups have room for dry provisions, bottled drinks, frozen goods, and fresh produce, plus places for cookware and tools needed for group meals. Backup safety gear, extra filters, and fresh linens are all planned for, so longer stays are comfortable and efficient.
Support for Technology and Modern Connectivity
People expect robust technology when traveling today, and the AS8 supports that with features like integrated Wi-Fi, multiple data ports, phone chargers at every bedside, and the ability to plug in or stream entertainment from personal devices. If satellite TV or internet is needed, the wiring is there for easy installation.
For tech users, having redundant backup systems—both electrical and electronic—is reassuring. Tech lockers contain spare routers and cabling. Owner manuals provide step-by-step instructions for connecting devices or troubleshooting the network. Lighting, window shades, and climate control can all be run from a central touch panel or optional smartphone app, making onboard life very familiar to those already used to smart homes.
Maintenance alerts and system checks are prompted by digital displays at the helm, letting owners know when regular service is needed or if any system is running outside standard parameters.
Adaptability for All Ages and Abilities
Accessibility is a priority with the AS8’s design. Wide companionways, shallow stairs, and handrails on every step make movement easy for children, older adults, or anyone with limited mobility. Thresholds are kept low and cabin doors open wide. Bathroom floors are non-slip and show clear visual contrast, making them safer during showers or after swimming.
The main salon has enough clear space for portable seating, walkers, or strollers if needed, and all cabin floors are laid out flat for fewer trips and falls. Deck vents for AC are placed up high to prevent cold breezes from blowing at floor level.
Sound, Lighting, and Ambience
The atmosphere onboard matters a lot, especially for extended stays. Key features on the AS8 include soft-close doors, thick wall insulation around the engine compartments, and carefully routed ductwork for quiet air conditioning. This means rest isn’t disturbed, and loud music or movies in one area don’t interrupt people relaxing elsewhere.
LED lighting runs with dimmers, allowing you to set everything from bright daytime work settings to mellow night lights. Reading lamps and personal lights are fitted for each bed and sofa. Under-cabinet lights in the galley and bathrooms make chores and cleaning easier at any hour.
Music systems send tunes through weatherproof speakers from the flybridge to the cabins, and each area can set its own volume or playlist. Entertaining or quiet time is always an option.
Owner Community and Real-World Use
People who own yachts like the AS8 often form part of a wider community, sharing advice about upgrades, routes, event meetups, and routine maintenance. This community is built on real experience, with many owners eager to provide tips or stories for new buyers. They report that the AS8 is reliable and simple to keep in good shape, with easy access to manufacturer support and a network of fellow owners for troubleshooting or advice.
Annual gatherings, online forums, or dockside conversations help build these connections, making ownership not just about the boat, but also about shared experience and teamwork. Feedback from real use highlights the reliability of the build, the value of practical amenities, and the comfort of knowing backup systems are always in place.
Final Thoughts
The Astondoa Yachts AS8 is a modern yacht designed with attention to day-to-day reality, comfort, and ease of use. If you are considering an upgrade, first-time purchase, or looking for a yacht that meets real world needs—comfortable cabins, practical storage, robust safety, and solid support—the AS8 brings together proven design and features that are easy to appreciate and use every day. For honest, expert support and even more details about how this yacht could fit your lifestyle, it’s always a good idea to talk to a Fly Yachts team member today.
Fly Yachts is your all-in-one resource for luxury yachting and aviation, starting with their homepage where you can explore their extensive yachts for sale listings, and get to know their background and team on the about us page. If you are interested in custom building a yacht, the build a yacht section covers the process, while those looking to travel can find inspiration among their worldwide charter destinations. To stay informed, check out the latest compass articles and industry news through Gulfstream News. If you want to list your vessel, their sell your yacht page details how they can help, and for those interested in charters, a variety of yachts charter options are available. Additionally, the company offers luxurious aircraft for sale. For any questions or direct support, simply head to their contact page.
