Introduction to the Beneteau Antares 8

The Beneteau Antares 8 is a small cruiser that is built for easy outings, weekend trips, fishing, and general on-the-water fun. At about 27 feet long, it’s designed with everyday users in mind, combining simple handling with a cabin that’s comfortable for both day and overnight stays. The Antares 8 is popular among families, couples, and groups of friends who want something manageable but still feature-rich. It is often seen at marinas and boat clubs because it fits a wide range of users and types of activities. The size and design aim to create a boat that can be used often, not just for special vacations but for casual afternoons, fishing, and quick breaks away from land.

The Antares 8 is part of Beneteau’s line that has a reputation for practical layouts and good use of space. Its length and beam make it easy to tow and store, compared to larger cabin cruisers. Many people who choose this boat are doing so because they want all the basics: protection from the weather, a place to sleep, a small kitchen, a bathroom, and a deck that’s safe for kids or pets. The overall style is modern but not flashy, focusing on function over extra decorations.

This boat’s balance of indoor and outdoor spaces is a strong point. The cockpit can seat multiple adults comfortably, while the cabin is high enough to stand in and walk through without bending. This matters a lot for users who plan to be on board for more than just an hour or two. Boats that are smaller than the Antares 8 often feel cramped; this one avoids that by using every inch to its advantage, providing wide walkways, large windows, and smart compartments. For users shopping for something that has both the feel of a day boat and a mini-camper, the Antares 8 is worth considering.

Core Specifications and Details

The Antares 8 measures about 27 feet from bow to stern, with a beam (width) of roughly 9 feet. Its draft (how deep the hull sits in the water) is about 2 feet, so it can cruise in shallow bays and rivers as well as deeper coastal waters. The weight is typically around 5,000 to 6,000 pounds, making it possible for the boat to be towed by a mid-size SUV or truck, depending on local towing laws.

This model is most often powered by a single 200 HP outboard engine mounted on the stern. Some owners opt for slightly more or less horsepower based on local conditions, how many people they expect to have onboard, or how fast they want to travel. With the standard engine, the Antares 8 will cruise comfortably at 20–25 knots, with a top speed closer to 30 knots when not heavily loaded.

Fuel capacity is about 90 gallons (340 liters), meaning you can cover a lot of ground before needing to refuel. This is handy for full days of cruising or if you plan to spend the weekend away from the dock. The freshwater tank holds around 26 gallons (about 100 liters), so you have enough for drinking, cooking, and rinsing off after swimming or fishing. These tanks are located for easy access, so filling and cleaning them is not difficult.

Safety features include sturdy railings along the bow and side decks, non-slip surfaces everywhere you walk, and grab handles at each step or change in level. The self-draining cockpit means that rain or spray drains away quickly, so decks are not left flooded or slippery. Navigation lights, navigation equipment, and recommended safety gear such as life jackets and fire extinguishers are all easy to keep onboard without using up valuable storage.

Exterior Layout and Usability

On deck, the Antares 8 is organized for simple movement and real use. The bow (front) can be walked on safely thanks to a wide, flat deck and reliable guard rails. A sun pad is often fitted here, letting people stretch out or relax while at anchor. Some layouts include fixed or removable cushions, so you can adapt for sunbathing or fishing.

Side decks are wide and feature molded, non-slip steps up from the cockpit. Heavy handrails run along the roof, giving extra security for anyone making their way to the bow. This is especially appreciated when anchoring or handling lines, or if there are children or older adults on board.

The cockpit itself is at the back. It typically includes a slide-out bench seat, letting you choose between more open space or an extra place to sit. The seat stows forward to make space for fishing or storing gear. There’s a cockpit table that can be set up for meals, games, or snacks while on the water. The table is made from weather-resistant material and can be removed and cleaned quickly.

There is a starboard side boarding door (on the right side looking forward) that helps a lot if you are stepping onto a floating dock or want to pull alongside another boat. This side door makes it easier to load groceries, fishing gear, or coolers when getting ready for a trip.

At the stern, a full-width swim platform extends the usable deck area. A telescopic swim ladder is attached and folds up neatly when not in use. The platform is large enough for two adults to get in and out of the water at the same time. There’s enough space to sit with your feet in the water or prep for water sports without crowding. Stainless steel rails are fitted to help with stability and provide tie-off points for tenders or toys.

Rod holders are part of the standard layout in the cockpit, designed for easy fishing without needing extra racks. There’s also dedicated storage for fishing gear, tackle boxes, and bait containers. Even for owners who do not fish, these compartments prove handy for storing water sports gear, shoes, and extra lines.

Cabin and Interior Design

The inside of the Antares 8 is designed for comfort and easy movement. After sliding the main glass door open, you step into the wheelhouse. It is tall enough for adults to stand and move around. Windows run nearly the entire length of both sides, and there’s a glass windscreen at the helm. This amount of glass has two benefits: the cabin stays bright all day, and the driver gets a full view outside, making maneuvering safer and more relaxed.

Immediately inside is a seating or dinette area. This area has a table and two side benches. If extra sleeping room is needed, the table drops down, and you can arrange the cushions to form a third berth for one or two small adults. This is a popular spot for kids or teenagers to sleep. Storage compartments are located below the seats, suitable for bedding, towels, or personal items.

The galley is directly across from the dinette. It contains a small sink, a compact two-burner stove, a fridge that fits enough for several days, and an overhead shelf or hanging basket for supplies. The countertop is easy to wipe down, and a fold-down cover extends the workspace when you need to prep meals. Drawers below the counter hold cooking tools, cleaning gear, and non-perishable foods.

Towards the bow is the main sleeping cabin, set up as a V-berth (a mattress shaped like a V that fills the forward-most part of the boat). There are reading lights and windows above that can be opened for airflow. The cushions are thick and comfortable enough for adults to get a good night’s sleep. Some models have curtains or a privacy screen to give separation from the rest of the cabin.

The bathroom is compact but usable, with a marine toilet, a sink, and some versions give you a small hand shower. There’s just enough space to change clothes or rinse off saltwater, and a small window or vent helps keep the area from getting damp. Waterproof flooring and a waste tank make it easy to keep clean and odor-free.

Every area of the cabin emphasizes practical storage—under-seat compartments, side pockets, galley shelves, and above-berth lockers. Because most owners use the boat for full days or weekends, these are crucial for keeping clothing, food, gear, and other essentials out of the way but within easy reach.

Performance and Handling

The Antares 8 gets reliable performance from its outboard engine. For most users, the standard 200 HP engine gives an ideal mix of quiet running, push for high cruising speeds, and fuel economy. Some owners prefer more (up to 250 HP) for heavier loads or regular water sports use, but 200 HP is enough for most users and means you aren’t paying for unnecessary fuel on routine outings.

With the engine correctly trimmed, the boat reaches plane quickly—often within a few seconds—so you can get from idle speed to a comfortable cruise without bogging down. The hull’s shape flattens out as you accelerate, reducing drag and making the ride smoother for passengers.

Steering is hydraulic and light, so parking at the marina or making tight turns feels easy. Some setups include a bow thruster, which helps when maneuvering sideways in a tight slip or against the wind. The throttle and shifter are simple and responsive, located on the right side of the helm for easy single-handed driving.

The Antares 8 handles moderate waves and wind well for its size. The bow lifts slightly in choppier water, keeping passengers drier. Side decks have good drainage so spray or rain doesn’t collect and run inside the cabin. The wheelhouse is well-insulated for sound, so the noise stays low even at higher speeds.

With the fuel tank full and up to nine people on board, the Antares 8 remains steady and responsive. The wide beam makes it less likely to rock when people move around on deck, which is important for fishing or loading/unloading. The bottom’s shape lets it glide through small wakes without jolting everybody inside, making it good for families or those who get seasick easily.

Storage and Practical Features

Storage is a strength of the Antares 8. On deck, there are lockers under the aft seats for large items like fenders, boots, or water toys. Under the cockpit floor, a deep locker can fit drop-in coolers, spare gas cans, or folded up inflatables. On each side of the cockpit, rod holders are mounted down low, and some boats are delivered with removable racks for extra gear.

Moving inside, the galley has drawers of different sizes, a cutlery rack, and a dry goods bin that pulls out on tracks. Under the sink is where most owners store pots, pans, and cleaning items. Above and beside the stove are open shelves for spices, mugs, or a roll of paper towels.

In the sleeping cabins, long lockers run along each side, handy for duffel bags or extra shoes. Under the V-berth, hinges lift up to reveal more deep storage. These spaces stay dry and are lined, so clothes or linens don’t get damp.

The bathroom compartment has a cupboard for cleaning items and a hook for hanging a towel or wet swimsuit. Most owners store extra toilet supplies either here or in one of the under-seat lockers.

Outside, the swim platform features a dedicated box for small tools or engine spares. This spot is great for stashing a mask and snorkel, a tow rope, or a wash-down hose without taking up space elsewhere. The side deck has a shallow, mesh-lined shelf for steps or walking shoes, keeping sand and grit out of the main cabin.

Fishing, Water Sports, and Flexible Use

Many Antares 8 owners choose this boat because it works for more than one activity. For fishing, there’s plenty of room at the stern to set up lines, use the built-in rod holders, and land a catch. There’s also space for a portable bait well or cooler, and holders for knives and pliers. Drained lockers under the deck mean any fish cleaning or gear rinsing doesn’t send water into the cabin.

For swimming, kids or adults can jump from the full-width swim platform and get back on board via the sturdy, folding ladder. The low freeboard at the stern also makes it possible to launch small inflatables, paddleboards, or even tow a wakeboarder at moderate speeds. Life jackets are easy to store in the lockers, and the non-slip deck helps keep everyone safe, even when wet feet are everywhere.

If your goal is relaxing, the cockpit bench seats and table are perfect for snacks, drinks, and games. You can add extra cushions or shade covers to keep everyone cool. The side decks let you move easily from aft to bow, which is nice when anchoring up for lunch or moving to the forward sun pad.

During family outings, parents often turn the cabin into a cool, quiet space with toys, books, and snacks, while the teens and adults hang out outside. Speakers can be added in the cockpit and main cabin, so music can be enjoyed by all, and the captain doesn’t miss anything while running the boat.

Cabins, Sleeping Arrangements, and Comfort for Overnight Trips

Planning to sleep on board? The Antares 8 is ready for simple overnights. The double V-berth in the forward cabin is large enough for two adults or a parent with a small child. The cushions are soft but supportive, and they can be moved aside to access storage lockers.

If you have kids or extra guests, the dinette converts into another sleeping area by lowering the table and arranging the backrest and seat cushions for a flat surface. A privacy curtain can be hung to give whoever sleeps here some seclusion.

Interior lighting uses LED fixtures that are placed over the beds, galley, and table. These lights do not get hot and use very little power, so leaving one on overnight isn’t a problem. Curtains or blinds are fitted on the windows, keeping early sunlight or marina lights from waking you up.

The main cabin’s ventilation is handled by opening windows and the roof hatch. This setup does a good job letting in a breeze at anchor or dock.

During cooler months or in the off season, a small portable space heater can be plugged in if you are connected to dock power, or cabin ventilation can be adjusted to reduce condensation.

Cooking, Dining, and Entertaining

The galley and table area are designed for basic but enjoyable meals on board. With a two-burner stove, most people can cook pasta, pancakes, or reheat favorite meals from home. The counter beside the stove is just enough to prep sandwiches or cut up vegetables, and it has a small backsplash to keep things from rolling off.

The sink has a seawater tap and a freshwater tap, with a holding tank big enough for several meals and basic cleanup. The fridge holds enough for beverages, dairy, and simple groceries; there’s space for a small freezer compartment for ice or frozen food.

Tabletop storage in the galley area works for mugs, bowls, and essentials. The table itself is wipe-clean plastic or wood veneer—durable for drinks and board games, and it can be removed and stored if extra floor space is needed.

Out in the cockpit, portable coolers can be added for easy access to drinks or ice. Many owners put their extra snacks in these spaces for easy sharing on deck. The bench seats wrap around a central table, which gives everyone a spot to eat lunch, play cards, or just talk over the day’s plans. An awning or bimini can be fitted for sun or light rain.

Entertainment systems include radio units that can connect to a phone or tablet by cable or Bluetooth. Waterproof speakers are found in both the cockpit and the cabin, so you can have background music wherever you go.

Safety, Navigation, and Electronics

The Antares 8 helm station is built for simple and safe navigation. Most deliveries include a GPS screen, depth sounder, speed and fuel displays, and compass mounted within easy reach of the captain’s chair. Switches for cabin and deck lights, bilge pump, and wipers are labeled and grouped on the main dash.

Nighttime and bad weather driving are made safer by navigation lights mounted on the bow, stern, and sides, as well as all-around anchor lights for mooring overnight. The wipers on the windscreen are strong enough to handle rain or spray, and the defog fan keeps view lines clear.

The helm seat slides forward and back, and the wheel is tilted, so users of different heights can get comfortable at the controls. A flip-up bolster lets the captain stand or lean while steering.

Docking and mooring lines are stored on each side of the deck, within quick reach for tying up at a slip or floating dock. Fenders hang from rails or cleats and are easy to swap positions as needed.

On the electronics side, many Antares 8 models have USB and conventional outlets for charging phones, running a fan, or powering a laptop. Overhead reading lights, cockpit courtesy lights, and utility lights in lockers are all low-power LED and spread evenly throughout.

Boat Setup and Routine Maintenance

Most Antares 8 owners appreciate how straightforward regular maintenance is. The outboard engine design means service is simple, with tilting access at the stern for oil checks, flushing, and filter changes. The fuel filter, water separator, and batteries are each mounted in areas under the floor or seats, keeping them dry and easy to reach.

Cabin and cockpit upholstery is made from materials that resist UV and mildew, so wiping down seats after a swim is quick and doesn’t require special products. Hard surfaces are easily cleaned, and the bathroom’s waterproof panels can be rinsed and mopped up after sandy feet or shampoo spills.

All drains on the deck and in the cabin lead to the main bilge, which has an electric pump and a manual override if you want extra backup. The self-draining cockpit helps after rain or when cleaning the deck.

Each system on the boat (freshwater, waste, electrical, gas) comes with labeled shut-offs, so there’s no guesswork or searching for hidden valves.

The boat’s hull and outboard should be rinsed with fresh water after each use, especially in saltwater. Most owners use mild soap and a soft brush for hull cleaning. Because the boat is trailable, hull inspections and repairs can be done at home or at any local shop.

User Feedback and What Owners Like

People who own the Antares 8 tend to comment on the sense of space for the boat’s size, how easy it is to step aboard, and how quickly they can get underway with just a few ready steps. Owners like that the main living area in the wheelhouse feels open, with lots of windows to see outside.

Many users mention the cockpit’s flexibility—how you can slide the bench, take out the table, or add fishing gear depending on the trip. Having a galley that is always ready to make coffee or snacks is appreciated, especially when weather changes quickly and you have to eat inside. The sleeping spaces get good marks for comfort and privacy when traveling with different generations or small kids.

Docking and handling get mentioned for being straightforward, whether solo or with a small crew. Drivers appreciate being able to walk from helm to bow easily, with no big step-ups. Several people praise the non-slip decks and safe railings for their pets and young children.

People who mostly use the Antares 8 for day trips talk about the benefit of a fully enclosed wheelhouse—how they can dodge summer squalls without losing comfort. Overnight users talk about the practical storage, easy routines for cabin prep, and simple cleanup after a weekend away.

Versatility for All Kinds of Activities

Because the Antares 8 is flexible, different users find it works for their needs. For fishing, the layout supports standing casts from both cockpit and swim platform. There’s space for tackle, fish buckets, and cleaning gear right on board. Waterproof lockers under the floor keep rods and gear safe, and cleanup is quick with deck drains.

For water sports, a towrope fitting at the stern lets you pull tubes or wakeboards (within recommended speed and weight limits). The swim ladder and side door are good for moving people and gear in and out.

When relaxing, awnings and sun pads create outdoor lounge spots, while inside stays cool and shaded. Kids can nap in the cabin or play under the table, and food and drinks are always close by in the galley and fridge.

Some owners even add racks on the hard top for storing paddleboards, kayaks, or bikes for use on shore or while anchored. The sturdy roof and rails can support these extras without affecting the balance or handling of the boat.

Why Many Boaters Choose the Antares 8

The Antares 8 is picked often by first-time buyers, families, retired couples, and people who want a step up from smaller open boats without getting into full-size yachts. It offers basic overnight features, comfortable seating, and safe movement, while still being easy to trailer, launch, and dock single-handed.

Many owners say they appreciate the “always ready” setup: with minimal prep, the boat can go from trailer to water in under an hour, and cleanup is quick after returning to the dock. Storage lockers and sturdy fixtures mean you can keep the boat ready for trips without emptying everything each time.

Regular maintenance and running costs are low, due to the outboard motor and small systems. The boat is simple enough for new owners to learn, but flexible enough for people used to larger boats or more complex set-ups. It is a popular model because it is sturdy, straightforward, and made for frequent, real use.

Key Points to Remember

• About 27 feet long, good for small groups, families, and overnighting
• Wide, safe decks and railings, including starboard side door and walk-around bow
• Variable cockpit: slide-out bench, movable table, sun shade option
• Full-width swim platform and swim ladder for swimming or boarding
• Large glass sliding cabin door, wide windows for light and safety
• Cabin sleeps up to four adults, practical dinette for eating or relaxing
• Galley with stove, sink, fridge, and overhead storage for basic meals
• Real bathroom with enclosed toilet, sink, and shower
• Flexible storage throughout: cockpit lockers, under-seat and under-floor compartments
• Simple, reliable outboard engine, 200 HP standard, with good top speed and easy maintenance
• Self-draining cockpit, non-slip deck, LED lights, and plenty of charging points
• Electronics ready: GPS, sounder, stereo, optional VHF and more
• Good resale value, lots of aftermarket add-ons and options for fishing, water sports, or general upgrades

Before You Buy

Think about the activities you most enjoy—fishing, relaxing, exploring, or weekends away. The Antares 8 is set up to do all of these without lots of steps or a steep learning curve. The features let you focus on using your boat rather than working on it every trip.

No two owners use their boat exactly the same way, but the Antares 8’s design means you can personalize it with racks, cushions, electronics, or changes to the galley. Many dealers and brokers have experience with these boats and can suggest custom options for how you plan to use it.

Final Thoughts

The Beneteau Antares 8 is designed for people who want boating to be an easy and enjoyable part of their life. Its blend of safe deck areas, a comfortable cabin, practical storage, and reliable engine means it works for many different users and activities. Whether you plan to fish, hang out with family and friends, or enjoy quiet trips alone, the Antares 8 has the features that matter without making things complicated. You can use it for quick escapes, social gatherings, or longer trips, all with the same practical setup and easy routines.

If you’re ready to see if the Antares 8 suits your lifestyle, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. The team can answer questions, give you more details, and help you understand if this boat is a smart fit for your plans.

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