No nonsense, solid French flybridge bruiser
Bénéteau have built a name on offering dependable, no nonsense boats for as long as we care to remember and the Antarès 42 could be the boat that encompasses this ethos the most.
There are no flash materials and it does without hull windows, instead, settling for a traditional master cabin forward cabin and guest twin amidships. Garnish isn’t a word that exists in the Antarès dictionary.
This, though, is why the Anatrès 42 is so good. It’s basic but solid engineering, a no nonsense hull connected to a no nonsense drive train and there is a real feeling that this boat will keep plugging away when lesser vessels may have floundered and given up.
Practicality seems to have come top of the hit list for the designers whether it is the amount of deck storage (the lazarette is large enough to be a no frills cabin) or the amount of handholds that are dotted about the place.
The finish is solid if a little soulless; an owner’s touch is likely to make all the difference in what is quite a sparse interior.
So the basics are there, we have a solid practically detailed boat which has a strong hull and a no nonsense attitude. The big question is, can it stand up against the fierce and supremely talented opposition?
Pros
- Solid hull, comfortable cruising, spacious master ensuite, light in saloon, view from saloon, deck storage (especially the lazarette), reassuring handling, value for money.
Cons
- Loose fittings, exposed cockpit/flybridge, basic finish.
Price as reviewed:
£302,119.00
Details
Displacement: 9.7 tonnes light
Top Speed: 28.6 knots
Cabins: 2
Fuel Capacity: 264 imp gal (1200 litres)
Beam: 13ft 4in (4.09m)
Cruising Speed: 22.3 knots
Water Capacity: 70 imp gal (320 litres)
Air Draught: 15ft 6in (4.75m)
RCD Category: B (for 10 people)
Length Overall: 45ft 9in (13.99m)
Engines: Twin Yanmar 6LY3, 380hp @ 3,400rpm, 6-cylinder 5.8 litre diesels
Range: 229 miles
Boats for Sale: Search for a Beneteau Antares 42 for sale
Reprints: Buy the full review
Contact: Beneteau
