/ 
The new version of the Antarès 9, unveiled in 2025, retains the fundamentals of the model, while incorporating notable developments from the larger sizes in the range. A look back at the origins of this model, its main lines and the technical choices made by the shipyard.
A range born of the tradition of helmsmen
For several decades, the Antarès range has been one of the pillars of Bénéteau's powerboat offering. These helmsmen, designed for coastal cruising, target a family clientele in search of a safe, comfortable boat capable of providing a few nights' accommodation on board. The first Antarès 9, launched in 2017, followed in this footsteps, taking up the recipes for the shipyard's success: a classic hull with moderate displacement, a central helm station, compact but functional fittings, and a protected cockpit.
The 2025 model represents a milestone. Not a revolution, but a move upmarket, reinforcing the model's appeal in a highly competitive market.
A proud descendant of the Antarès 12
The silhouette of this new version of Antarès 9 incorporates many of the aesthetic and functional codes of its big brother, the A12. In particular, the long hull porthole, treated as a continuous band, breaks with the dissociated openings of the previous model. This choice, purely aesthetic at first glance, is also of interest in terms of on-board luminosity.
Another notable borrowing is the wheelhouse hatch, now extended to integrate equipment such as a camping awning or solar panels. This cap also gives the boat's overall silhouette a tauter, more contemporary look.
Vacuum infusion: more controlled construction
Structurally, the hull of the Antarès 9 is now made using vacuum infusion, a more demanding technique that allows better weight control, improved laminate homogeneity and reduced styrene emissions. This technical choice marks a significant evolution from the previous generation, which was molded using a more traditional technique.
Construction remains in laminated polyester, with an integrated longitudinal structure. The deck is counter-molded and the wheelhouse rests on a reinforced frame. The overall volume remains unchanged, but the interior layout has been optimized, notably to improve circulation and ventilation.
Redesigned ergonomics for coastal cruising
The boat's program remains unchanged: family coastal cruising, day trips, extended anchorage close to the coast. This positioning has led the shipyard to improve certain functional aspects, without upsetting the overall architecture.
One of the most visible changes is the starboard side door, which facilitates both mooring maneuvers and boarding. The starboard gangway has also been enlarged, making it safer to move forward. This detail is particularly appreciated by families with children and solo sailors.
The integration of optional equipment such as solar panels, a bow thruster and a lithium system for air conditioning also shows that Bénéteau is responding to growing demand for extended anchorage autonomy.
A discreet but targeted move upmarket
This model's gamble is based on an improvement in quality without a sharp break. Upholstery, interior woodwork, indirect lighting: the on-board ambience has been reworked. The level of finish is now close to that of the Antarès 12, without blowing the budget.
Bénéteau's strategy is clear: to maintain an affordable offering in the twin-outboard helmsman segment, while meeting today's standards of on-board comfort. This move upmarket remains contained and does not significantly increase the basic price.
With this new model, Bénéteau shows that it's possible to make major changes to a model without altering its spirit or function. This approach preserves the DNA of a best-seller, while adjusting it to the new expectations of yachtsmen.
