Beneteau Antares 7

Overview

The Beneteau Antares 7 is a compact cruiser that feels far bigger than its size suggests, combining practicality, comfort and reassuring performance in a design built for real-world boating.

Part of a range with over 40 years of heritage, spanning models from 6m right up to 11m, the Antares 7 carries the unmistakable look of a true pilothouse cruiser – and once you step inside, that identity becomes even clearer. Its semi-displacement hull and high freeboard deliver a stable, predictable ride that inspires confidence, whether you’re exploring sheltered waters or heading out along the coast.

Compact enough to tow behind a mid-sized vehicle, yet spacious enough for overnight trips, the Antares 7 opens up a world of coastal exploration without the ongoing costs of permanent berthing or mooring fees.

Performance & Handling

The Antares 7’s hull has recently been redesigned to make the most of outboard power, with a sharp entry and flared bow combining with a moderate deadrise and wide reversed chines to deliver a soft ride and excellent stability at rest. An unusual convex shape just above the waterline helps the bow cut cleanly through the seas.

Fitted with a 150hp Mercury four-stroke outboard, the Antares 7 reached a top speed of 33 knots (61km/h), with the efficient hull settling onto the plane at around 10 knots and 2800rpm. Cruising at 18 knots returned a fuel burn of 22 litres per hour, giving a range of approximately 125 nautical miles. Acceleration is strong, with no cavitation at takeoff.

Performance is steady and efficient, with engine options that balance power and economy well. The Antares 7 isn’t about outright speed, it’s about confidence, control, and making every journey feel comfortable, regardless of the conditions.

An Enclosed, All-Weather Wheelhouse

From the outside, the Antares 7 carries the unmistakable look of a true pilothouse cruiser. Step inside and that identity becomes even clearer – the enclosed wheelhouse creates a protected, comfortable environment, making it an ideal choice for extending your time on the water beyond the warmer months.

Large windows and ventilation openings flood the interior with natural light while offering excellent all-round visibility, keeping the helm position connected to the surroundings at all times.

Comfortable Accommodation for Overnight Trips

Below deck, the forward cabin offers a cosy double berth, shaped neatly into the angled side walls and walnut bulkhead, giving the Antares 7 genuine overnight capability. Storage is thoughtfully worked in too, with holds under the bed and a hatch providing access for servicing the bowthruster and battery.

A compact head is fitted alongside, complete with an electric-flush toilet connected to a holding tank with level gauge and pump-out.

For additional flexibility, the saloon dinette lowers to create an occasional second double berth, with cushions stored beneath the seats when not in use – ideal for extra guests staying overnight.

A Smart, Functional Galley

The galley is compact but well thought through, located to starboard behind the pilot’s seat, which hinges forward to open up extra room for cooking.

Features include:

• 45-litre upright fridge
• Single burner gas cooktop
• Moulded fibreglass sink with tap
• Practical under-bench storage

A Sociable Saloon and Cockpit

The saloon is cleverly arranged to make the most of the available space, with comfortable, adaptable seating that creates a sociable area for meals, conversation, or simply taking a break from the elements. A swivelling pilot’s seat and a co-pilot benchseat that tilts to face the second benchseat add real versatility, and can also be set up to form a berth.

Out in the cockpit, the U-shaped seating layout comfortably seats up to five, with all the seating and the large folding table converting into a spacious sunpad when at rest. A sturdy, twin-legged table slots into the cockpit sole for outdoor dining at anchor. The cockpit is designed for flexibility. It provides a safe, usable space for fishing, relaxing, or enjoying time at anchor, with easy access to the swim platforms for those who want to get closer to the water.

Safe and Practical Deck Layout

The starboard side gate makes docking easier and provides an additional, safe access point to the water for swimming or hauling in a catch. Swim platforms sit either side of the engine, with a recessed ladder folding out from the starboard gate for easy access back aboard.

Walkaround side decks make moving forward simple and safe, even with family or guests on board, leading to a bow sunpad with removable cushions and side rails for security. Moulded corner seats double as steps to the sides.

On outboard versions, the space that would otherwise house an inboard engine room becomes a roomy lazarette, adding useful extra storage.

Confidence at the Helm

At the helm, everything is designed with ease of use in mind – a simple, clear, ergonomic layout that allows for relaxed, confident handling whether you’re navigating tight marinas or cruising steadily along the coast. Bolster seating gives a commanding view, with a removable platform offering the option to stand, with up to 1.9m of head height available.

It’s a boat that focuses on usability and comfort, delivering a dependable, well-rounded cruising experience that feels right at home in UK waters.

A Connected Boat

Through the Seanapps mobile app and onboard unit, owners can check the status of the boat’s systems – including battery charge, fuel and water tank levels, and maintenance scheduling – straight from their smartphone, as well as plan routes and review sailing status on the move.

Why Choose the Beneteau Antares 7?

What defines the Antares 7 is its versatility. It’s a boat built for the family leisure market that also holds its own for short coastal adventures, relaxed day trips, and genuine overnight escapes – all from a package compact enough to tow behind a mid-sized vehicle, sidestepping the ongoing costs of permanent berthing.

A dedicated Fishing version is also available, with a deck layout and equipment tailored for a great day’s fishing.

For boaters wanting an overnight-capable, road-towable pocket cruiser with sporty, confident handling, the Beneteau Antares 7 is a genuinely versatile choice for UK waters.

Key Features

• Compact pilothouse cruiser with enclosed wheelhouse
• Semi-displacement hull redesigned for outboard power
• Length of 6.48m, beam of 2.5m, approx. 1880kg – road-towable
• Forward double cabin with under-bed storage
• Convertible saloon dinette for additional overnight berth
• Enclosed head with electric-flush toilet and pump-out
• Compact galley with fridge, gas hob and sink
• U-shaped cockpit seating for up to 5, converts to sunpad
• Starboard side gate and swim ladder
• Bow sunpad with secure side rails
• Seanapps app connectivity for onboard system monitoring
• Available in a dedicated Fishing version
• Up to 125 nautical miles cruising range at 18-knot cruise speed

Beneteau Antares 7 FAQ

What is the cruising range of the Beneteau Antares 7?

As tested with a 150hp Mercury four-stroke outboard, the Antares 7 returned a fuel burn of 22 litres per hour at an 18-knot cruise, giving a range of approximately 125 nautical miles. Actual range will vary with engine choice, load and conditions.

How many people can sleep onboard the Beneteau Antares 7?

The Antares 7 offers a permanent double berth in the forward cabin, with the saloon dinette converting into an occasional second double berth for guests staying overnight.

Can the Beneteau Antares 7 be towed by road?

Yes. At around 1880kg and with a beam of 2.5m, the Antares 7 is road-towable behind a mid-sized tow vehicle, making it easy to transport and helping owners avoid the ongoing cost of permanent berthing.

Are parts and servicing readily available for the Beneteau Antares 7 in the UK?

Yes. As an authorised Beneteau dealer, Fox’s Yacht Sales can assist with genuine Beneteau parts, technical support and servicing enquiries, helping to keep your Antares 7 in excellent condition throughout your ownership.

Why Choose Fox’s Yacht Sales for Your Beneteau Antares 7?

At Fox’s Yacht Sales, we’ve been helping people get on the water for over 50 years. Our team knows boats inside and out, and we’re passionate about matching customers with the right boat for their needs. Whether you’re new to boating or moving up to your next boat, we’re here to offer straightforward advice, answer questions and support you long after handover day.

• Over 50 years of trusted marine expertise
• Fair and transparent pricing
• Options to sell your boat
• Expert guidance on specifications and options
• Friendly support the whole way through
• Access to marine finance and insurance solutions

As part of Fox’s Marina & Boatyard in Ipswich, you’ll also have access to one of the UK’s most established boating facilities. From servicing, maintenance and refits to our fully stocked chandlery, everything you need is in one place.

If you’d like to find out more about the Beneteau Antares 7, call us on +44 (0)1473 971 971. We’re available Monday to Saturday and always happy to talk boats.