Introduction: The Popularity of the Beneteau Yachts Antares 11
The Beneteau Yachts Antares 11 has become a recognized name among boaters looking for a vessel that balances comfort, reliability, and practical features. Many people today want a boat that feels welcoming for everyday outings without being complicated to operate or maintain. The Antares 11 is recognized for its blend of smart design and straightforward systems that work for families, groups of friends, and boating newcomers. If you find yourself searching for a model that makes both weekend and extended trips enjoyable—while keeping the focus on ease of use and versatility—the Antares 11 is a strong candidate.
Understanding what sets the Antares 11 apart comes down to its design, features, safety, and the way it supports life on the water. By digging into these areas, you get a true sense of how the boat stands up against others in its range and why it’s become a go-to option for a range of owners around the world. To make your decision easier, this article offers a detailed look at key aspects of the boat, insights from how it’s used, and answers to common questions from those considering a new vessel. The goal is to offer not just basic stats but real perspective and thorough details, so you walk away knowing more and can confidently decide if this model fits your plans.
Size, Space, and Comfort Level
The first thing you notice about the Beneteau Antares 11 is its generous size. Measuring close to 36 feet in length and almost 11 feet in width, the boat’s proportions mean there is genuine room for relaxing, cooking, and moving about. Whether you’re preparing for overnight trips or simply spending the day cruising, the space is well allocated, giving wide walkways on deck and ample interior headroom. The boat’s profile is defined by a sturdy hardtop, which protects the main helm and cockpit and adds value in all weather.
In practice, the Antares 11 feels bigger than its size due in part to how the living spaces connect. Large windows, sliding doors, and overhead hatches pull in light and open up views, making even indoor time feel connected to the outdoors. From the high bow—outfitted with a genuine sunbathing area and sitting bench—to the wide, open swim platform at the stern, there’s always a place to gather or get some quiet away from the crowd. The boat is designed for year-round use: air conditioning and heating can be added, and ventilation is managed through sliding windows, sunroofs, and opening hatches. This means comfort isn’t limited to just warm, sunny afternoons.
Two Cabins and Flexible Sleeping Arrangements
The Antares 11 has a two-cabin layout that’s designed to be as flexible as possible. The forward cabin, set up as the owner’s cabin, comes with a full-size double berth, deep hanging closets, drawers, and custom shelving. The designers considered real use cases—so there’s space to store weekend bags, shoes, and personal gear right where you want it, and you can stand up straight next to the bed.
The guest cabin, just aft to port, is equipped with two single berths that can combine into a wide double when needed, making it as good for a pair of adult guests as it is for one or two kids. Additional overhead storage is provided, and the cabin’s horizontal window lets in enough daylight to feel inviting even for light daytime rest. What’s especially useful is the way the main lounge or saloon area converts quickly into another berth, just by lowering the table and arranging the back cushions. In total, the Antares 11 can sleep up to six, with four in the private cabins and two in the saloon—a setup ideal for most family-sized groups or a mix of adults and kids.
Saloon, Dining, and Everyday Living
At the heart of the Antares 11 is the saloon, the main social and day-to-day living area of the boat. Here, a U-shaped settee curves around a fold-out table, letting four adults dine comfortably or six relax together. The entire area is set under large, panoramic windows, so even on dull days you can watch the scenery float by. At night, soft LED lighting creates a welcoming space for games, reading, or planning the next day.
The saloon’s floor is a continuous, easy-to-clean surface without raised edges or trip hazards, and the furniture is built solidly enough to withstand heavy use. By choosing hard-wearing fabrics and robust hinges on moving parts, Beneteau designed this space to survive family activity and frequent guests. Even if you often have a full crew, there’s space to stand, stretch out, or move freely from saloon to cockpit, galley to helm. The options for charging—both USB and 12V—throughout mean everyone’s phone or camera stays powered up no matter how long the trip.
Galley: Cooking and Food Prep Onboard
The galley is placed along the starboard side, close to both the saloon and cockpit. Cooking and food prep are made easy with two-burner gas or electric stoves, a deep stainless steel sink, and a fridge big enough for full-day supplies. Worktops are broad, and there’s storage above and below for pots, pans, plates, and snacks—making it practical even for people who want more than just sandwiches on their outings.
Next to the galley is a dedicated panel for a small microwave or grill, and if you pick the outdoor cockpit galley package, you get a gas grill, outdoor wet bar, and extra prep space for alfresco eating. Cleanup is quick, too, thanks to easy-wipe surfaces. Indoor and outdoor spaces connect with sliding doors and windows, so you can talk with friends inside while keeping an eye on those gathering outside. This makes the Antares 11 especially suited for social events and group meals.
Helm Station: Safety and Simplicity
Driving the Antares 11 is made simple by a helm station that’s designed for clarity and comfort. The dashboard includes a digital display panel with real-time readings on speed, navigation, fuel, and engine health. Everything is backlit for night use and organized so you spot updates fast, without confusion. Controls for trim, throttle, and steering are right where your hand falls naturally, letting both newcomers and seasoned operators drive with confidence.
Visibility is excellent in all directions thanks to the upright windscreen, minimal blind spots, and sloping side windows. The helm seat is both height- and length-adjustable, making room for a co-pilot or companion so you’re never alone when underway. A bow thruster comes standard, giving you more control when docking or close-quarters maneuvering—especially useful when wind or current picks up.
Those new to boating appreciate how the joystick control lets you move the boat sideways or rotate in tight spaces. Overhead, controls for the spotlight and horn are within reach, making night operation straightforward. Navigating coastal areas, marinas, or unfamiliar channels is easier with modern GPS chartplotters and optional radar displays that show your position, track, and potential hazards.
Cockpit: The Heart of Outdoor Social Life
The cockpit in the Antares 11 is set up for both active and relaxing groups. A large L-shaped bench folds around a table where guests can eat, play games, or chat with those at the helm. The table is height-adjustable—you can raise it for meals or lower it for an open, lounging area. Designed with families and groups in mind, the back section of the seat flips to face either inboard or aft, giving options for social gathering or water watching.
The cockpit itself is partially covered by a hardtop, so you get shade on hot days and shelter when a shower passes through. Sliding glass doors connect the cockpit directly to the saloon, keeping the group together even when people want to spread out. Overhead, speakers deliver music inside and out, and LED lights let you enjoy the space after dark.
At the cockpit sides are gates for easy boarding, wide enough for gear or groceries. Deep lockers below the seating swallow extra life jackets, dock lines, or picnic gear, keeping the walkway clear. The cockpit flooring uses tough, slip-resistant materials for added safety, while drainage channels handle spray or rain without puddles.
Bow Area: Lounging and Enjoying the View
At the bow, the Antares 11 opens up into a lounging area that makes the most of the boat’s width. Cushioned sunpads, large enough for two adults, set up relaxation for sunbathing, napping, or reading. Adjustable backrests make it easy to get comfortable, and there’s a bench for sitting upright and soaking in the breeze as you cruise or anchor. For those worried about kids or pets on deck, the stainless rails and strong lifelines create a secure barrier from water to boat edge.
The anchor setup is straightforward, with an electric windlass managed from both the bow and the helm station. Chain and rode fit in a broad anchor locker—big enough for safe anchoring overnight. Cupholders and speakers extend the entertainment area, and the bow’s wide, non-skid surface means you can move about confidently, even if you’re the first one up in the morning or the last one on deck at night.
Swim Platform: For Water Lovers
The swim platform at the stern is a highlight for anyone who likes water sports, swimming, or just cooling off. Running the full width of the boat, the platform lets two or three people get in and out at the same time without feeling crowded. The telescoping swim ladder stores flat when not in use and is solid enough for all ages to use. A freshwater shower is mounted nearby for rinsing off after a swim.
For those who want to fish or enjoy tow sports, the flat platform and open cockpit bench make setting up and bringing in lines simple. Towing a tube, kayak, or paddleboard is easy, with secure cleats for lines and plenty of room on deck to stage gear. If you’re using the platform as an entry point, the gradual steps mean you’re always steady getting on or off—even with wet feet.
Storage Solutions for Every Need
Storage is a focus in the Antares 11, reflecting real-world needs. There are compartments under the cockpit seating, in the saloon benches, beneath the forward bed, and even hidden lockers in the guest cabin floor. Deck lockers hold fenders, long lines, or water toys, and a self-draining anchor locker keeps mud and chain out of living spaces.
In the galley, you’ll find big drawers for pots and dishware, racks for wine and supplies, and split compartments for cleaning and personal items. The head includes medicine cabinets, towel shelves, and bins for toiletries. Owners mention having places for both daily things and less-used items, so the boat stays neat even with a group on board.
Fuel, Water, and Systems Capacity
The Antares 11 comes with two fuel tanks with a combined capacity that usually exceeds 200 gallons—putting it in the range to cruise for days without topping off. The water tank, generally between 50 and 65 gallons, supplies both the galley and bathroom plus the deck shower. The holding tank for waste connects to a deck fitting for pumpout at marinas and vents for odor control.
Onboard systems like water pumps, bilge pumps, lighting, and refrigeration run on a modern 12V electrical system, backed by dedicated batteries for starting and house loads. Shore power and a built-in charger allow the boat to connect to dockside electricity. For longer trips, solar charging or larger alternators can be added to supply extra power.
Bathroom and Shower Setup
A full bathroom—known as the “head”—is critical for comfort, especially during overnights. The Antares 11 head includes an electric toilet, holding tank system, and an actual shower stall with a separate drain. Sinks in both the bathroom and galley have hot and cold running water, fed from the onboard tank and heated by engine run time or electrical heater while at the dock.
The shower features a folding door to keep water in, as well as a teak seat and non-slip mat. Mirrors and waterproof lighting keep the space usable even at night, and the ventilation fan draws out damp air after showers.
Lighting and Ambience
The Antares 11 uses LED lighting throughout, chosen for both energy efficiency and bright, comfortable light quality. Reading and spotlights are mounted in the cabins, galley, and cockpit. Dimmable main lights in the saloon and helm let you create the mood you want, whether for a lively dinner or a quiet after-dark cruise. Deck lighting and blue courtesy lights provide safe passage after sunset.
Heating, Cooling, and Comfort
In unpredictable climates, heating and cooling make the boat truly usable. Many Antares 11s come fitted with air conditioning in the cabins and main lounge, matched to strong window blinds and insulation to help manage temperature. Diesel heating or electric heaters keep the boat warm on cool spring or fall mornings. Ventilation is enhanced by hatches and opening windows—every sleeping area gets direct airflow for comfort.
Navigation and Technology
Owners appreciate the range of navigation options. The helm is designed to accommodate multi-function displays where you can run electronic charts, monitor weather, and see depth and tides at a glance. Standard VHF radio, autopilot interfaces, and Bluetooth connectivity build in both safety and convenience.
Most Antares 11 technical systems have override switches and mechanical backups, so even if something digital stops working, you can keep cruising safely. Multiple charging ports throughout the boat keep everyone’s phones or tablets ready and mean you can add accessories or update software as needed.
Onboard Entertainment
Beyond just music, the boat has room for a TV with digital antenna or satellite input, DVD and Blu-ray hookups, and external speakers that work from either the radio or phone. Plano for Wi-Fi hotspots is made so, if you like, you can check email or stream movies while onboard.
Security and Peace of Mind
The Antares 11 is built with safety in mind. The engine room is vented and has easy access for routine checks. The electrical system is fused and labeled for clarity. Smoke and CO2 alarms can be added in each cabin. Bilge pumps—manual and automatic—have alarms and backup switches for extra assurance on long trips.
Fit for All Kinds of Adventures
The typical owner of the Antares 11 ranges widely: some use the boat as a mobile weekend cottage, cruising from marina to marina; others keep it on a lift at home or in a slip for day trips after work. There’s enough storage for snorkeling or fishing equipment, and enough comfort to make overnighting pleasant for older boaters, families with kids, or mixed groups of friends.
Ease of Maintenance
Routine maintenance for the Antares 11 is straightforward. Large deck lockers allow for direct access to batteries, pumps, and steering gear. The outboards can be serviced from the swim platform, avoiding the need for complicated lifts or haul-outs. Surfaces are non-porous and smooth, so scrubbing down after a spill or fish cleaning is quick work. Most owners find regular checks—fuel, water, engine oil, navigation lights—handled with basic tools and without having to move cushions or empty lockers. Manuals and diagrams are included, with clear labels on shut-off valves, switches, and breakers.
Personalization Options
Personalization is a big draw. Beneteau offers a selection of color schemes for hull and interior, plus several choices for cushion patterns and deck finishes. You can customize electronics packages, fishing equipment, and comfort upgrades—like extra refrigerators, cockpit covers, or electric sunroofs—to match your style. Adding accessories such as rod holders, paddleboard brackets, or a cockpit grill is simple, and the wiring is pre-set for things like extra speakers or lights.
Owner Feedback and Real-World Experience
Feedback from Antares 11 owners paints a clear picture: the boat is reliable, simple to handle, and easy to adapt to most uses. Those who value socializing comment on how well the layout allows for everyone to be together, yet still have space for quiet moments. Families mention the security of deep cockpits and high rails, while couples appreciate the separate sleeping quarters and convertible saloon.
What many say sets the Antares 11 apart from other boats is how genuinely usable it is for groups, even those with young children or less-experienced boaters. The blend of easy systems, safe walkways, and practical storage mean less worrying and more time enjoying every outing.
Comparing to Other Boats in Its Class
In a crowded market of 30- to 40-foot boats, the Antares 11 stands out by offering true private cabins (not just convertible seating), walkaround decks for safety, real outdoor and indoor galleys, and tech that’s accessible—not intimidating. Some boats in this range lean more toward pure speed, but the Antares 11 manages strong performance with balance, comfort, and day-to-day livability.
Environmental Awareness
Modern boating standards require cleaner operation, and the Antares 11 fits this trend. Outboard engines are quiet, low-emission, and efficient, meeting current laws on fuel consumption and noise. LED lighting reduces power load, switched from central panels. Onboard water and waste systems are closed and vented, making responsible boating possible wherever you go.
Why Choose This Model?
Choosing the Beneteau Antares 11 brings together reliable systems, real living comfort, straightforward handling, and flexibility to make the most of your time on the water. Whether for socializing, family adventures, fishing, water sports, or a relaxing solo getaway, it gives you options without demands. The onboard experience is a direct answer to what today’s boaters have said in real-life feedback—simple, safe, fun, and able to grow with you.
If you want to see how the Beneteau Yachts Antares 11 matches up with your boating lifestyle or need hands-on details, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. The Fly Yachts team is knowledgeable, ready to help, and can answer your questions about the Antares 11 without pressure.
Fly Yachts offers a complete range of yachts for sale including luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, all featured on their homepage, and you can learn about their company, team, and expertise on the About Us page; they also provide options for custom builds on the Build a Yacht page, a wide selection of global charter destinations, dedicated yachts charter services, and helpful information in their Compass Articles and Gulfstream News; if you want to sell your yacht, you can find support on the Sell Your Yacht page, and for those interested in aviation, they also offer aircraft for sale; for any questions or to get in touch, just use their Contact page.
