The Bénéteau Antares 7.80 is a motor cruiser designed for day trips and short coastal cruises. Launched as the successor to the Antares 750, this cruiser stands out for its focus on cruising while retaining the versatility appreciated by fishing enthusiasts. With a length of 7.48 meters, outboard engine options up to 200 HP, and optimized layouts for comfort, it embodies the modern evolution of Bénéteau’s historic range, combining livability, safety, and marine performance.
Key Features
- Main Use: Coastal cruising, day trips, occasional fishing.
- Engine: Outboard, max. 200 HP, economical and high-performing.
- Layout: Bright saloon, double berth in the bow, kitchenette, separate toilet, modular sunbathing area.
- Seaworthiness: Deep-V hull for smooth wave handling, stability, and maneuverability.
- Target Audience: Families, couples, boaters looking for a livable, easy-to-handle, and low-maintenance boat.
History of the Antares 7.80
The Bénéteau Antares 7.80 continues the legacy of the Antares range, launched in the 1970s by the Vendée shipyard. Originally designed as fishing-cruising boats, the series has evolved into more comfortable cruising units while retaining an efficient hull and robust construction.
The Antares 7.80 was designed by Bénéteau’s in-house team, featuring modern lines and a timeless design. It replaces the successful Antares 760 and fits into a range that continues to expand and modernize. Bénéteau, with its extensive experience, has produced thousands of units in the Antares series, confirming its popularity among European boaters.
At its launch, the Antares 7.80 competes with models like the Jeanneau Fisher, Ocqueteau, and some British cruisers, offering a balance between livability, seaworthiness, and controlled budget. The fiberglass construction, typical of Bénéteau’s industrial production, ensures durability and easy maintenance.
The Antares 7.80 is a motorboat that allows you to enjoy weekend getaways, fishing trips with friends, and even canal exploration.
Interior Layout
The Antares 7.80 offers a bright and functional interior, designed to maximize onboard comfort. The U-shaped saloon can seat four and converts into a double berth. The kitchenette, equipped with a sink and a stove space, allows for simple meal preparation. In the bow, a large double berth (2.20 m x 1.20 m) with a wardrobe ensures a comfortable sleeping area. The helm station features a panoramic windshield and an adjustable seat, while the separate toilet is available in marine or chemical options.
The modular cockpit can be fitted with a sunbathing area covering almost its entire surface or a removable L-shaped bench. Storage lockers are integrated into the seating, and a sliding panel on the cabin improves ventilation. Access to the cabin is facilitated by hatches and ample walkways for easy movement.
Marine Qualities
The Antares 7.80’s deep-V hull ensures smooth wave handling and stable course-keeping, even in rough seas. During real-world tests (20 knots of wind, short swell), the boat demonstrated a good ability to absorb shocks and maintain a comfortable cruising speed (15.7 knots at 4,000 RPM, 25.6 knots at full throttle). The outboard engine, being economical, provides sufficient range for day trips or weekend cruises.
Owners and sea trials highlight the boat’s maneuverability, stability at rest and under way, and ease of handling, even in tight marinas. Noise levels in the cabin remain reasonable, although the cabin can act as a resonance chamber when waves hit.
Owner Reviews
Owner feedback emphasizes several strengths:
- Comfort and Livability: Space well-optimized for a boat of this size, excellent visibility from the helm, modular cockpit.
- Seaworthiness: Reassuring sea handling, smooth wave passage, acceleration, and speed suitable for family use.
- Maintenance: Robust construction, but electrical equipment and seals on older models require monitoring.
Some note that the toilet compartment is a bit cramped and the side decks are narrow, but these points are offset by the boat’s versatility and ease of use. Owners also appreciate the resale value, supported by the brand’s reputation and build quality.
Bénéteau Antares 7.80 Technical Specifications
| Element | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Builder | Bénéteau (France) |
| Architect | Sarrazin Design |
| Launch Year | Mid-2010s (successor to the Antares 750) |
| Type | Motor cruiser, fishing/cruising, coastal cruising |
| Length Overall | 7.48 m |
| Beam | 2.50 m |
| Air Draft | 2.30 m |
| Draft | Approx. 0.7 m |
| Light Displacement | 1,886 kg |
| Engine | Outboard, max. 200 HP (Suzuki, Honda, etc.) |
| Fuel Capacity | 170 L |
| Fresh Water Capacity | 50 L |
| Layout | Convertible saloon, double berth in bow, kitchenette, separate toilet, sunbathing area |
| Certification | CE C8 / D8 (max. 8 passengers) |
| Cruising Speed | 15–18 knots |
| Maximum Speed | 25–28 knots |
| Range | Approx. 80 nautical miles at cruising speed |
| Notable Options | Electronics pack (GPS, sounder), refrigerator, heating, premium upholstery |
Conclusion
The Bénéteau Antares 7.80 establishes itself as a versatile cruiser, ideal for family outings or trips with friends. Its coastal cruising program, thoughtful layouts, and marine qualities make it a wise choice for boaters seeking a livable, safe, and easy-to-use boat. Its robust construction and Bénéteau’s reputation ensure good durability and attractive resale value.