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The test of the Antarès 9 was carried out in sustained wind conditions, with a westerly flow blowing at 20-25 knots, with gusts and a short chop of 40-60 cm. An ideal situation to gauge the behavior of this family helmsman in the face of the elements.
Simple start-up, despite strong gusts of wind
Leaving Port Canto in Cannes, the exit maneuver is carried out without difficulty. The bow thruster plays its role effectively despite the gusts, but shows its limitations when it comes to turning the boat in a crosswind. This assistance is welcome, but not sufficient in gusts in excess of 25 knots.
Our test model is equipped with two Mercury V6 blocks, each developing 200 hp.
The helm station offers a natural steering position, whether seated or standing. The steering wheel, which does not tilt, in no way impedes movement or access to the port side door. All controls are grouped together on a well-organized, ergonomic dashboard. The Garmin touchscreen occupies a good half of the panel, providing a clear, legible display of both cartography and sounder data. The VesselView screen completes the engine information.
Good visibility and effective shelter
On leaving port, the enclosed wheelhouse offers appreciable shelter. The sliding door on the port side provides ventilation without overexposing the pilot. However, it is difficult to keep it open during navigation, unless you reduce speed.
Visibility is good, even at sea level. The extensive all-round glazing guarantees an almost complete 360-degree field of vision, essential for coastal surveillance. Pantograph wipers, with integrated windshield washer, prove effective when a wave sweeps across the windshield.
A stable hull, but demanding in choppy waters
In head-on seas, with a short, choppy swell, the hull needs to be spared. At high speeds, impacts quickly become dry. It's best to reduce speed to between 16 and 18 knots to maintain a comfortable passage.
With the trim lowered to maximum, the hull remains stable and doesn't slap excessively, but the feel on board quickly becomes uncomfortable if you insist. On the other hand, course keeping remains reassuring.
The maximum speed achieved during the test was measured at 33.2 knots at 5,800 rpm, with three people on board and a full tank. Optimum cruising speed, combining efficiency and comfort, is between 19 and 21 knots at around 4,300 to 4,500 rpm. Consumption at this speed is around 68 liters per hour for both engines.
Safe behavior at the lodge
When cornering, the Antarès 9 is surprisingly agile. The boat engages well without losing grip, and the four-blade propellers provide good bite. The hydraulic steering is a little firm, but could be made more supple to improve medium-speed maneuvering, especially when making tight U-turns.
Inside, vibrations are well contained and noise levels remain very pleasant at steady speeds. Between 19 and 23 knots, the wheelhouse remains a pleasant space, with no need to shout to be heard.
The raised saloon allows full enjoyment of the panorama, while improving headroom in the guest cabin. The offset also benefits overall stability, with a slightly lower center of gravity.
