The French shipyard groupBeneteau is constantly improving its models. In this case, the Antares programme has been extended upwards:the Antares 9 OB, where OB stands for Outboard, outboard motor, stands.
For an additional charge, the boat is pre-installed with electrics and gears, also known as pre-rigging, for the makes Honda, Suzuki, Mercury and Yamaha.
A maximum of two engines of 200 hp each are planned, as on the test boat. The shipyard also offers the option of installing two 300-litre tanks instead of the standard 200-litre tanks. However, these are not connected by a hose, which limits the range in an emergency if you are reliant on just one engine.
Beneteau uses so-called air-step technology, in which air is channelled under the hull. There it forms a kind of foam carpet, which is intended to reduce friction and, according to the shipyard, helps to improve handling characteristics, greater stability and more economical sailing.
As far as the overall exterior and interior finish and the technical and electrical installations are concerned, the test boat shows no weaknesses apart from minor details.
You can find the full article in the September issue of BOOTE. From 14.8.19 available here.
