/ 
The Antarès 9 targets a family clientele looking for a comfortable, twin-outboard motorized unit capable of weekly coastal cruising. This final section looks at the model's price positioning, its standard and optional features, and the alternatives available from the segment's main competitors.
An entry fee in line with the market
At ?175,860 for the base version with two 200 hp Mercury V6 engines, the Antares 9 is in the upper mid-range, but consistent with its standard equipment level. Notable standard features include the wheelhouse side door, extended hood, lacquered furniture and walnut woodwork, sliding rear bench seat and convertible saloon.
This means that the boat can be used from the moment of delivery, without the immediate need for additional packages, even though there are many options.
A modular offering via equipment packs
The shipyard offers several packs for customizing the equipment:
- Comfort finish: electric windlass, cockpit cushions, 25-liter water heater, 80-liter refrigerator, interior curtains, Lenco electric flaps, indirect LED lighting, 40-amp charger, etc.
- Electronic Pack: Garmin 9'' Echomap UHD2 display, GT15-IH probe, induction charger.
- Sound Pack: Fusion MS-RA210 system and 4 speakers.
These packages are complemented by individual options: solar panels (2 x 130 W), bow thruster, bow sun awning, aft cockpit closure, bathing ladder, paddle gallery, Infinity carpet, and various comfort and mooring features.
Well-configured, the price can quickly reach or exceed ?200,000 inc. VAT, especially if you opt for the 250 hp Mercury V8 engines (?211,800 in this configuration).
Tough competition around the 9-meter mark
In this segment, several models are vying for yachtsmen's favors. Here are a few direct competitors:
Jeanneau Merry Fisher 895 natural competitor. Length 8.90 m, width 2.99 m, two cabs, twin engines up to 2 x 200 hp. Similar catalog price, but less standard equipment.
Quicksilver 905 Weekend : offers a more affordable alternative, but with an inferior finish and a more compact interior layout.
Galeon 300 Fly or HTS more upscale, but less affordable. Features more luxurious technical solutions, often costing upwards of ?250,000 fully equipped.
Rodman Spirit 31 OB a more rugged, seaworthy orientation, but less refined design. A more niche positioning, geared more towards sport fishing.
Perceived value on the rise
The Bénéteau shipyard has worked on a perceptible move upmarket, without a sudden break in price. The quality of the materials, the ergonomics of the wheelhouse, the modularity of the cockpit and the functional innovations (side door, wide gangway, sliding bench seat) provide superior value for money.
Compared to its competitors, the Antarès 9 stands out less for its price than for the overall coherence of its offer. It's a boat that offers a real family cruising program in a compact size, with no major compromises on comfort.
In conclusion, the Antarès 9's price positioning remains competitive in its category, taking into account the level of equipment, on-board modularity and the shipyard's know-how. A boat that's affordable yet rewarding, designed to last and evolve according to its owner's needs.
