
Beneteau has announced that in 2016, two new larger models of its Flyer range are being introduced. The company says that the Flyer 8.8 SUNdeck and SPACEdeck mark the culmination of a complete revamp of the Beneteau outboard range.
The same hull design with a LOA of 8.5 metres supports two very different deck plans and interiors. The hull is the latest generation of the AirStep and they can take engines of up to 500hp.
The SUNdeck version of the Flyer 8.8 will be on show at the upcoming Cannes Yachting Festival. Relaxation and living comfort have been pushed as far as they can be, says Beneteau, and the spacious aft bench seat is particularly comfortable and easily converts into a big sunbathing area. Living up to its name, foredeck of the SUNdeck boasts two more sun lounges with headrests and handy cup holders.
The interior of the Flyer 8.8 is presented in warm tones of brown and wine and is said to be both elegant and spacious.
The cabin features side glazing, a sky-view deck hatch and ventilation ports. In its night-time configuration, the fore cabin sleeps two comfortably, converting to a saloon in the daytime where four can sit at the table.
The cabin also features a quality benchtop, refrigerator, microwave oven, as well as a separate bathroom with toilet and shower.
The SPACEdeck version of the Flyer 8.8 will be shown at the next Nautic Boat Show in de Paris 2016. On this version, the deck has been opened up like a big bowrider but it also offers a spacious interior.
The central helm station can accommodate up to three people and this boat will also have a handy kitchen area too. There is also a seperate toilet with shower and vanity in the cabin
For fishing, the SPACEdeck can be configured with a fishing station featuring a live-bait tank and work station replacing the cockpit bench seat.
The bow section has two L-shpaed bench seats, a sun-lounge and lots of stowage space.
Provisional specifications:
Hull length: 7.89m
Length overall: 8.50m
Hull beam: 2.89m
Maximum engine power: 500hp
Fuel tank: 400 litres (600 litres optional)