Helios 23, idleness in a semi-rigid less than 7 m

Helios 23 © Bateaux.com

After Helios 25 and 27, the French shipyard Promarine is launching Helios 23, a semi-rigid 6.67 m long and 2.53 m wide. Like the other models in the range, the little brother uses this layout with off-centre console and side passage to move around on board. A layout that creates a sense of space, especially in this unit with its road gauge.

Promarine's initial range, called Manta, offered rather adventurous boats, with a programme focused more on fishing and rapid movement. If these semi-rigid vehicles were encountered mainly on the Atlantic coast and the North Sea (Oleron in Dunkirk), the lack of sunbathing hindered their expansion in the south of France.

It is therefore for a market of idleness and sunshine that the French shipyard is launching the "Helios" range in 2016. A first model - the Helios 25 - was released in 2016 and a second in 2017 - the Helios 27. In 2018, it is the smallest model that completes the range: 6.94 m long (overall length) and 2.53 m wide, so transportable and without francization tax on coque?!

The program remains idleness with a very large sunbathing area at the front that covers a huge storage box as well as a smaller one at the front. The front of the console offers a storage compartment (for the cockpit table in particular), which can also receive toilets in the premium version.

The huge sunbathing area
The large storage box

The off-centre console on starboard allows a side passage on port side to move from rear to front and vice versa. This layout, which is available throughout the range, provides a sense of space, especially on the smallest unit in the Helios range. It is protected by a high windshield and equipped with handrails for safe navigation or travel on board.

Storage on the front of the console without a bench but with a backrest

The double leaning-post receives a single seat without backrest that reveals a sink when lifted. Instead of opting for a complete block, the yard chose a clear leaning-post to provide more space and avoid the feeling of "choking" in a unit less than 7 m long. A tip to keep the width impression.

The leaning-post cut on the port side to "aerate" the space

At the rear, a U-shaped saloon with a cockpit table is transformed into a second sunbathing area. The upholstery has been changed from previous models and is now attached to a more practical slide. It is also possible to choose two different shades on the same unit. For water activities, a ski mast is available as an option. Just like a simple roll bar or with a bimini to protect yourself from the sun.

A beautiful aft saloon with a mounting for a cockpit table

As with the rest of the range, the Helios 23 can be customized with 3 different colours of gelcoat and hypalon. On the engine side, there is a choice between a range of single-engine engines from 150 to 200 HP.

The French shipyard succeeds in offering a model of less than 7 m fully equipped for idleness and navigation with family or friends. Sunbathing in number, no water, beautiful aft saloon to enjoy a lunch at anchor and even the possibility of installing toilets! L' Helios 23 Premium: From 45 000 ? including VAT is available in three different packages: Standard, Style and Premium, each with its own set of options. To enjoy a sunbathing experience, you should at least opt for the Style version.

The ladder at the front for easy landing at anchor

Rates without motor:

Helios 23 : From 34 950 ? TTC

Helios 23 Style: From 40 100 ? TTC

Helios 23 Premium: From 45 000 ? including VAT

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