Spotlight: 2023 Beneteau Antares 7

The updated 2023 Beneteau Antares 7 now features a wheelhouse offset to port to create more space for forward access via a starboard walkway.

The new-look Beneteau Antares 7 also now features a side access door for easy entry to and exit from the cockpit when docked at a floating pontoon or landing a sports fish, and roof bars for mounting racks to carry bulky equipment such as stand-up paddleboards.

An option for owners is a bimini that extends off the trailing edge of the hardtop, providing shade to the cockpit.

Sydney-based Beneteau dealership Chapman Marine Group already has a new Beneteau Antares 7 on order and due to arrive in Australia early next year.

Inside, the saloon space is redesigned to feature a skipper’s seat that can swivel to face a lounge with a dinette. The lounge’s forward section has a backrest that flips to either side, providing more seating while using the dinette, and forward-facing company for the skipper when underway.

This space can also convert into extra bedding via the drop-down tabletop and a cushioned insert.

Behind the helm is a small galley featuring a convection stovetop, sink and fridge.

The helm’s dashboard is also redesigned, featuring a large, flat, blacked-out panel that’s large enough to house a multifunction touchscreen.

Below decks, the Beneteau Antares 7 features a cabin that can be optimised for either storage or space.

In its optional “Weekender” layout, the Beneteau Antares 7 has a double berth to port, and to starboard an enclosed head equipped with a chemical toilet and built-in storage space. It also now includes a sink for the first time.

With a 200hp outboard engine mounted on the transom, the Beneteau Antares 7 is optimised to cruise at 21 knots, although when pushed the stable-handling and fun-to-drive hull will reach a maximum speed of around 33 knots.

At lower speeds, an optional bow thruster will help with tight docking manoeuvres.

As well as the Weekender edition, Beneteau will be offering the Antares 7 in its Fishing version with priority given to making more space in the cockpit.

This version of the Antares 7 replaces the fold-up cockpit bench seat with a fishing station that includes rod holders, a bait board, and terminal tackle storage, with a folding jump seat to one side and a table to the other.

Even the rocket launcher rod holder on the trailing edge of the hardtop can come equipped with a spotlight for illuminating the cockpit at night, and there's a second 9.0-inch display connected to the multifunction chartplotter and fishfinder at the helm.

Pricing for the new-generation Beneteau Antares 7 has not yet been announced, but expect the new one to come in at around $160,000 when it lands here early next year.