A 10 m with outboard
With the rise of outboard engines, shipyards now have the opportunity to choose this propulsion for their large units. Its advantage over the inboard is well proven.
This is the case in the world of semi-rigid boats in particular, but also of rigid hulls, as Jeanneau demonstrated with his Merry Fisher 1095.
The Bénéteau shipyard has therefore also given in to the call of the great outboard for its new model. Thus, the Flyer range - dayboats from 5 to 9 m in 2 deck layouts - has been enhanced with a new model. The Flyer 10 is the largest model in the range with an overall length of 9.95 m. This model is on the borders of the dayboat and the cabin cruiser. " It's a combination of an express cruiser and a sport-cruiser, like the Gran Turismo." explains Michael Guinet, Outboard Powerboat Product Manager.
A small walkaround deck layout
The Flyer 10 is what Bénéteau calls a "smart walkaround", i.e. you can only access the front deck via the port side deck. The front deck has a huge sunbathing area with backrest and armrests for 3 people. A bridge layout already seen on American models - Sea Ray in particular - and which has "a of the meaning on this boat size" michael teaches us.
The design of the Flyer 10 is based on 3 strong concepts, as explained to us by the product manager: " friendliness, comfort and sensations. "And the bet is quite successful for the first two adjectives. It will be necessary to wait to sail on Flyer 10 to judge the sensations.
Lots of space and equipment
The deck layout is spacious with a different layout from previous models. Indeed, the crossing in the cockpit is done diagonally, from the starboard entrance to the port side deck. While this makes it easier to travel on board, it also makes it possible to have as much equipment as possible outside.
Thus, a beautiful U-shaped square with a triangular table (so as not to obstruct traffic on board) is located on the port side. The galley faces the cockpit entrance, installed just behind the helm station. It is equipped with a sink, two fires and a refrigerator.
The double passenger bench is on the port side and the double pilot bench on the starboard side. Both are equipped with hinged seats. If this choice seems relevant to us on the pilot side, we do not necessarily see the interest on the passenger side. But in case of rough or fast sailing, we will probably be satisfied to be able to sit comfortably in an upright position, for more stability. The cockpit is very spacious with the possibility of installing two displays or a large 16-inch display. A rigid T-top is available as an option to protect the steering station.
"This arrangement of the passenger and pilot benches allows a family of 4 people to sail facing the sea", adds Michael.
Easy to drive
The idea of this family boat is also to make piloting easier. It is therefore equipped with an Airstep 2 hull, developed and patented by the Vendée shipyard, as well as "power assist" technology as standard for greater driving comfort. The "Zipwake" system (automatic trim system kit) is also installed as standard.
"Like cars, we wanted to create an electronic and assisted boat. The idea is to facilitate piloting with assistance. We want the yachtsman to enjoy his navigation as a unique experience" michael explains.
A family boat with two cabins
Under the bridge there is also a lot of space since there are two cabins. The height under the beam is high, perhaps even a little too high at the level of the descent so that we have the impression of going down a little to the cellar. The dark-coloured wooden structural panels accentuate this feeling of enclosure a little, but only at the bottom of the descent. A plexiglass hood closes the cab and should probably bring light into this space. It must be said that locked in a living room, it can sometimes be difficult to judge the light.
The U-shaped saloon on the front turns into a double bed and offers a comfortable bench seat. The place is clear, thanks to the large side windows and offers storage. And indeed, inside Flyer 10, there is no shortage of rangements?! A good point when you sail with your family, with enfants?!
The bathroom is spacious and even has a separate shower. On the rear, a mid-cabin offers a second double berth. At the head level, we have a good height and we have a glazing. If the yard wanted to offer a headboard at the base, it will finally be abandoned on the next models. Some changes will indeed be made to the future units, such as the size of some cupboards for example.
"We didn't use the inside kitchen since we already had one outside, which allows us to offer two cabins" explains Michael.
Our opinion
In a unit only 10 m long and 3.30 m wide, Bénéteau has managed to offer a dayboat exterior and a cruiser interior, all outside bord?! With a maximum of 700 HP and a fuel autonomy of 800 L, the family cruise aboard the Flyer 10 can be widely considered. Everything has been thought out to offer a maximum of space and equipment and the bet is réussi?!
With a basic bareboat price of 92?500 ? HT, it would be better to count 165?000 ? for a boat with option, prepared and delivered. What with the price of engines to get for about 200?000 ? a family boat with 2 cabins, a beautiful bathroom, lots of space and comfort at bord?!
