After the launch of the Barracuda 6 at the Grand Pavois, in September 2017, it's at the Sea Fishing Show In Nantes, France, from 16 to 18 March 2018, Bénéteau will launch its flagship model, the Barracuda 9 . "This new model will be the next stand for the Barracuda Tour, a no kill fishing competition and completes the renewal of the Barracuda range" explains Michaël Guinet. The Barracuda 9 will in fact be the boat used for the Barracuda Tour 2018 from next spring. It is moreover this event that allows the Vendée-based shipyard to innovate and adapt its models, according to the fishermen's returns.
This 8.91 m fishing model was designed on the same hull as the the Antares 9 launched at the Nautic 2017 and dedicated to cruising. Equipped with the latest AirStep hull, it is powered by a maximum of 2x250 HP and approved in category B and can take up to 10 people on board.
The Barracuda 9 has an open and modular cockpit with rear and side folding seats. This allows the cockpit to be freed up for fishing. A Fishing pack is also available including 6 additional rod holders, a roller plating, a livewell with water circulation, a deck wash pump and a cutting board on the transom.
A coupé door on the starboard side allows easy embarkation and disembarkation, while the gangways should be wide enough to move around on board and access the foredeck. The balcony and handrails make it safe to move around on board. Still outside, to improve the comfort of the fishermen, the freeboards are padded.
The wheelhouse with a bay window at the stern allows ventilation of the boat while facilitating movement and opening to the outside. Inside, there is a kitchenette on the port side with a large fridge. The steering console on the starboard side is "richer" and has a double bench seat and a large dashboard that can accommodate two screens of 9 and 12 inches. At the stern, the interior saloon for 4 people is installed lengthwise to facilitate circulation, without the table of course.
Another novelty is the closed cabin. "We've sealed off the lower deck with a door to separate it from the wheelhouse." explains Michael. There is a bunk in the front and a mid-cabin (which can be used as storage space) in the middle as well as a bathroom with a separate toilet and shower.
With this new sport-fishing, the shipyard announces an increase in perceived quality. To be checked during her official presentation, but it should be noted that Bénéteau has worked to make her boat more comfortable: cabin door, real saloon, a more comfortable cockpit..
