Introduction: What Makes the Beneteau Antares 8 Stand Out?

The Beneteau Antares 8 is a boat that’s made for people who want comfort and ease on the water. It’s often called a “weekender” because it suits overnight adventures with friends or family, but it is just as useful for peaceful days out, fishing trips, or exploring local waterways. When looking at this model, you quickly notice that every inch of its design is focused on practical use and reliability, not just good looks. The Antares 8 fits well in marinas, moves comfortably on rivers and coastlines, and can be managed without a large crew. The boat’s mix of size and features means you’re not likely to feel cramped inside, but you also don’t need professional help to take it out or park it.

Inside, the spaces are open, bright, and made to make the most out of available room. The saloon and cabin offer usable seating, storage, and sleeping areas for several people. Outdoors, the cockpit is set up for relaxing, eating, fishing, or sunbathing. It’s a model that favors simple maintenance and long days out over complex gadgets. These details mean that people new to boating as well as those moving up from smaller vessels feel comfortable choosing the Antares 8. If you want a boat you can count on for repeated use without a steep learning curve, this model sits high on many lists.

Layout: Step-by-Step Tour of the Deck and Cabin

When you walk up to the Antares 8, it looks inviting and trim. The hull design is clean, with broad walkways running along each side of the main cabin. This means you don’t have to squeeze past railings or climb to get to the bow. The deck uses non-slip finishes for safety, and stainless steel grab rails follow the lines for safe movement during boarding or mooring. At the stern, a large cockpit provides plenty of flexible seating with benches along the transom and sides—perfect for meals or setting up fishing gear. The rear bench can be set up for eating, sunbathing, or even moved aside to make more room for casting lines. Storage is found under the benches, keeping gear off the deck and easy to reach.

A swim platform, often with a built-in swim ladder, makes it easy for kids or adults to get back onboard after swimming. Between the cockpit and the interior cabin, a sliding door makes entry easy. This door is wide, allowing people carrying gear or coolers to move in and out without trouble. It also seals weather-tight, keeping the cabin dry on stormy days.

Inside, the saloon welcomes you with bright, open windows that surround the cabin. The ceiling, which includes a sliding or opening sunroof, lets in fresh air and natural light. The main seating and dining area has cushioned benches shaped around a removable or drop-down table. At meal times, the table comes up, and for sleeping, it lowers to make another bed for guests. There’s enough space here for small group card games, breakfast, or simply hanging out with a view of the waves.

To one side, the galley includes a small sink with running water, an area for a portable cooktop, and room for an icebox or fridge. Everything is within arm’s reach, so you can prep food or drinks without moving around. Cupboards and drawers above and below help with storage for cooking tools or crockery. Forward, the enclosed bathroom (traditionally called the “head”) features a marine toilet and space for basic hygiene. There’s a little sink, mirror, and storage for toiletries. Useful on long days or overnight stays, this bathroom is private, with a door that locks securely.

At the bow of the boat sits the main double berth, which is surprisingly roomy for a vessel under 30 feet. Side shelves and portholes let you keep personal items handy and bring in daylight. The mattress is cushioned and wide enough for two adults. Curtains can be drawn for privacy or to block out early morning sunlight. All around, details like LED lighting, easy-to-clean flooring, and practical latch points make the cabin functional and friendly.

Engine and Handling: Practical Details Every Owner Should Know

Most Antares 8 boats come with a single outboard engine, often rated at around 200 to 250 horsepower. Outboard motors are favored here for their ease of maintenance, simple operation, and ability to tilt up for shallow water or cleaning. With a design focused on coastal cruising and inshore waters, the Antares 8 does not require complex operating skills or systems. The engine controls are within easy reach of the captain’s chair at the helm. Large, clear dials monitor speed, fuel, engine hours, and other critical info. A tilt-adjustable steering wheel ensures comfort for captains of any height.

The helm itself includes room for electronics like fish finders, GPS chartplotters, and radios. Most layouts keep these tools up top, in clear view, and well-protected from sun glare or spray. The single outboard means less routine work, and most of the maintenance—like oil changes, flushing the engine, or changing the propeller—can be done by a handy owner or a local technician. In many areas, outboard service is widely available and cost-effective. Because of the hull’s shape, the Antares 8 is stable at anchor and on the move, making it suitable for families or guests who may not have their sea legs yet.

Outdoor Living and Fishing Features

If you like to fish, sunbathe, or just relax, the cockpit is the place to be. There’s enough open space for several people to cast lines or gather around the table for lunch. Owners can add options like a cockpit awning for sun protection, extra rod holders for fishing trips, and a live well to keep bait or catch fresh. The storage lockers under the benches can hold fishing gear, picnic supplies, life jackets, and more, so the deck remains uncluttered. The aft swim platform lets you quickly dip in for a swim or clean off muddy feet before re-entering the cabin.

Side decks are wide and even, so moving to the bow to handle lines or set an anchor is straightforward. Stanchions and rails are tall enough to keep everyone safe as they move forward or back. The anchor locker at the front is roomy, with space for a windlass if you like automatic anchoring, and a bow roller to make setting and retrieving the anchor easier.

Lighting, Ventilation, and Cabin Comforts

Light is a big part of the Antares 8’s appeal. Windows along the cabin sides, clear overhead hatches, and a sunroof mean the boat never feels dark or enclosed, even on cloudy days. These windows open for ventilation, allowing breezes to keep the interior cool without running fans all the time. At night, LED lights in the salon, galley, and cockpit use minimal power but make reading, cooking, or evening games easy. Even the cockpit can be fitted with soft lighting for dinners or quiet time after the sun goes down.

The cabin is built using modern, easy-clean materials that resist water, salt, and everyday wear. Non-slip flooring, washable upholstery, and molded surfaces mean you don’t need to scrub hard to keep the interior fresh. When overnighting, privacy curtains and blackout shades are standard in the cabin and available as options for other parts of the interior. Cupholders, hooks for bags or coats, and clever nooks for personal items add to the friendly “home on the water” feel.

Detailed Storage and Usable Spaces

Many boat owners want to know where they’ll put everything, from spare clothes to water toys. In the Antares 8, the designers focused on keeping storage spaces accessible and durable. Under every seating area, cushions lift to reveal lockers for bags, fishing gear, or food supplies. The galley includes cabinets above and below for pots, pans, and dinnerware. Additional deep lockers are set into the floor between the galley and helm. There’s dedicated space near the companionway for life jackets, ropes, and emergency flares.

In the main berth area at the front, side shelves and under-bed lockers hold overnight bags and shoes. The head (bathroom) offers waterproof storage for toiletries and spare towels. On deck, the anchor locker serves for ropes and fenders, while the transom platforms sometimes offer extra corners for inflatables or buckets.

The swim platform area is just steps from the cockpit, making it simple to switch between swimming and relaxing. Boarding ladders are sturdy and often foldable, so you can stow them away when moving between destinations.

Safety Features: Designed for Peace of Mind

Safety is a big deal for many buyers, and the Antares 8 covers the basics with practical design. Non-slip surfaces on deck help prevent slips, especially when wet, and grab rails are placed along the cabin roof, the helm, and around benches. The enclosed cockpit means kids and pets are less likely to fall overboard, and side gates at the transom help control access to the water.

The helm station offers great lines of sight in nearly every direction thanks to oversized wraparound windows. These are made from shatter-resistant materials for extra safety. Controls for navigation and anchor lights, horn, and windshield wipers are all within easy reach. In emergency situations, wide companionways and exit points mean the entire crew can get onto deck or back inside without delay.

Standard navigation and anchor lights mean you meet rules for after-dark operation. The head’s private, watertight compartment is a real bonus with young families. On the water, everything is within easy reach, which is especially handy for first-timers who may need to grab lines or gear in a hurry.

Options and Upgrades: Customizing Your Setup

The Antares 8 is available with a variety of optional extras. A bow thruster is a very popular choice, making tight marina docking easy, especially for new boat owners. Upgraded navigation systems like advanced GPS, radar, and fish finders bring a boost to electronics. Some versions let you pick between different cockpit layouts: more seating for social time, open space for fishing, or a mix depending on your favorite activities.

Add-ons for comfort include zip-in cockpit canvas for rain or privacy, extra fans or vents in the cabin, and enhanced lighting both inside and out. The galley can sometimes be upgraded to include a small built-in fridge, extra storage, or a larger cooktop. For sound, owners can install stereo systems with outdoor speakers—great for anchoring out and sharing music. Security can get a boost with lockable storage, keyed cabin doors, and more robust engine security features.

The swim platform may be built out wider, and more grab handles can be installed. For overnighting, blackout curtains, memory foam mattresses, and upgraded bedding materials are available, providing even more comfort. Owners who fish might want to add a livewell, rod racks, or extra tackle drawers.

How the Antares 8 Handles in Real Life

When you’re on the water, the Antares 8 is known for being responsive and forgiving. The hull tracks well even with one engine, and the turning radius is tight enough for small marinas or busy docks. Acceleration is smooth, making it fun to drive but not intimidating for passengers. Even in moderate chop or wake, the windshield and high cabin keep spray out of the cockpit, and self-draining decks handle any water that gets inside.

The boat settles well at anchor, so setting up for a picnic, swim, or overnight stop feels safe. The outboard engine means you can lift the propeller away from rocks or weeds, giving access to shallow bays or sandbars. When it’s time to pack up, steering is easy for single operators—owners often comment that they’re comfortable moving the Antares 8 on their own or with just one friend for help.

Cleaning Routines and Regular Care

Clean-up on the Antares 8 is quick thanks to molded surfaces, removable cushions, and simple deck hardware. After a day out, just rinse decks with fresh water and use a mild cleaner for stubborn salt or sand. Inside, tabletops and windows wipe clean, and the floor won’t soak up water from wet clothes or towels. The galley and bathroom fixtures are meant for marine conditions, so they resist corrosion and stains. Regular maintenance is straightforward—check anchor and mooring lines, flush the outboard engine after use, inspect navigation lights, and make sure fenders and lines are stored.

What Type of Boater Will Like the Antares 8?

The Antares 8 fits a big range of buyers. If you enjoy weekend outings with family or friends, the mix of open and private spaces keeps everyone happy. If you like to stay overnight, you get real beds and enough comforts to avoid feeling cramped. The rear cockpit designs work for fishing, picnicking, sunbathing, or just watching the sunset. If you like simple operation, the boat will not overwhelm with complicated controls, but you can always add more tech if it fits your plans.

If you need a boat to trailer or park in smaller marinas, the Antares 8 is a manageable size and weight for most trucks and standard slips. It doesn’t require lots of heavy lifting, special gear, or years of boating experience. If you have pets or kids, the side rails and high-sided cockpit offer confidence. If you’re starting new or coming from a smaller open boat, you’ll find yourself learning quickly and making use of all the indoor space.

How the Galley Makes Boating Simple

The kitchen area, or galley as it’s often called, is set up for usability rather than complexity. The sink runs with fresh water from an onboard tank that can be filled before trips. There’s counter space for sandwich making or simple frying pan meals. Some layouts offer a spot for a portable stove. The location lets you cook with daylight streaming in from large windows, which also ventilates food smells or smoke.

Storage in the galley is designed to lock shut while moving, so you don’t have to worry about items sliding off shelves. With nearby seating, food prep feels natural and social, not hidden away. The refrigerator or icebox is big enough for drinks, snacks, and one or two meals’ worth of groceries. If you pack for longer trips, under-floor storage in the saloon works for non-perishable items. The easy clean design means wipe-downs after each meal don’t take long.

Bathroom Features and Privacy

The Antares 8 includes a watertight bathroom (marine “head”). There’s a toilet with a holding tank, a small sink with pressurized water, good lighting, and a mirror. Shelving and storage let you keep soap, tissue, and personal items stowed out of sight. Good ventilation removes damp air, helping keep things fresh. The head is fully enclosed with a sturdy door, so guests or kids have real privacy—a feature often missing from smaller boats.

Cockpit Dining and Living

The rear cockpit table is easy to install and pack away. This means you can set up outdoor dining in minutes, or leave space open for moving around or fishing. The benches are deep enough for comfortable seating, with high seat backs for longer meals. If you like, you can install cup holders, an extra drink cooler, or hook up portable lights to keep the area friendly after sunset. You can also add snap-on covers to protect soft surfaces from rain or spray.

When dining inside, the saloon’s table is large enough for four, and windows all around provide good views so you still feel outdoors. The table drops down to make an extra sleeping space, for families with kids or couples who want to travel with friends.

Planning Your First Trip: What to Bring and What to Check

Before you set out on the Antares 8, it’s smart to plan a checklist. Make sure life jackets and safety gear are onboard and within easy reach. Check the fuel and water tanks, confirm you have enough food for your guests, and look over all electronics (navigation, radio, lights) for function. Take bedding for each berth, plus spare blankets for cooler nights. Pack easy-to-store food that doesn’t need much prep. Sunblock, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves given all the open windows and outdoor deck space.

For overnight trips, check anchor lines, make sure the bathroom holding tank is empty and ready, and secure all gear below decks. Review how to open and close windows or the sunroof for fresh air. If you plan to fish, bring rods, bait, and keep a cooler for your catch. If you plan to swim, check the swim ladder and bring towels that dry quickly.

Docking and Storage: Day-to-Day Practical Tips

Docking the Antares 8 is less stressful than with many larger boats. The hull shape and single engine keep steering direct, and with the bow thruster option, you can pivot in close quarters. Approach docks slowly—this boat stops and turns predictably. Make fenders and mooring lines ready before docking, and assign a helper if possible. Practice your routine a few times in open water until you’re comfortable.

At most marinas, the beam and length fit standard slips. Confirm ahead with your home marina if you need special assignments for finger piers or extra width. On a trailer, the boat fits many standard boat lifts and dry storage lots if you measure ahead and follow local weight and length limits. Drain and rinse the engine if storing out of water, and open cabin windows after each trip to air out the interior.

Security and Protection

The Antares 8 benefits from strong locks on the cabin door and below deck storage areas. Always lock the cabin when away from your slip and remove valuables. Store fishing gear, electronics, and personal items inside or in lockers. Consider an extra security device for the outboard engine, and check if your marina offers night watch or video monitoring for peace of mind.

Rain covers for the cockpit preserve soft surfaces, and window shades prevent sun from fading interiors. During winter or long layups, cover the entire boat with a fitted tarp or shrink-wrap and remove all food and batteries as recommended.

Quick Reference for Buyers: Questions to Answer Before Purchase

• What’s the main way you’ll use the boat: fishing, cruising, overnighting, or a mix?
• How many people will typically join you on a trip?
• Do you plan to anchor out or use marina slips?
• Is easy boarding, wide decks, and safe cockpit access important for your family?
• Have you checked what optional extras matter most—like bow thrusters, sun awnings, fishing packages, or upgraded electronics?
• Where will you store the boat when it’s not in use?
• Can you manage simple outboard maintenance or is a local marina nearby?
• Are you looking for a boat you can trailer home? Make sure your vehicle is up to the task.
• Do you like bringing pets or kids? Check for side gates, railings, and swim ladders.
• What’s your comfort level as the skipper, and do you want a walkthrough with a pro before launching?

Seasonal Preparation

At the start of each season, clean and check all safety gear. Charge and test your electronics. Fill the fresh water tank and inspect hoses and fittings for leaks. Examine all anchor and dock lines for fraying or weak spots. Inspect running lights and interior bulbs for function. Top off fuel and engine oil, and check the propeller for dings. Open all hatches for air-out and look for signs of leaks or mildew which are easy to spot thanks to the bright interior.

Make a short list for regular cleaning—wipe interior and exterior surfaces, flush the outboard after salt use, and check that the swim ladder, anchor, and galley gear are ready for use. Don’t forget to restock galley staples and replace anything expired or damaged in the first aid and safety kits.

Benefits of Working With a Knowledgeable Team

Choosing and owning the Beneteau Antares 8 is much easier when you work with pros who know the details of the model. You can get honest answers about which package makes sense for your favorite use, what add-ons might be needed in your area, and how to get the most fun from your investment. If you want to see features in person, schedule a walk-through or sea trial where someone points out the layouts, sleeping options, and hidden storage spaces.

If you have a question about docking, launching, or equipment upgrades, a real person from the company can give tips from past customer feedback and their own experience. For paperwork—like ownership documents, registration, and proof of recent service—expert help keeps things clear and simple. If you want a boat that feels just right for your needs, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. They can answer your questions and help you move forward with confidence.

Fly Yachts provides a wide range of yachts for sale including luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, all accessible from their homepage, and shares detailed information about their company, team, and industry expertise on the About Us page; for those looking for custom options, the Build a Yacht page covers all personalization choices, while those seeking adventure can explore top charter destinations and yacht charter offerings; they also publish informative Compass Articles and keep visitors updated with the latest in Gulfstream News, offer support when you want to sell your yacht, have luxury aircraft for sale, and make it easy to reach out with questions through their Contact page.