Beneteau Antares 11: Outboard-Powered Cruiser Optimized for Space, Comfort and Ease of Use

Antares—one of the brightest stars in the night sky and the standout object in the constellation Scorpius—lends its name to Beneteau’s latest outboard-powered model, the Antares 11. At 36 feet 4 inches overall length, this model is the flagship of Beneteau’s outboard Antares range and is designed to deliver bright, open living spaces and an easygoing cruising experience. The Antares family has a long history in Europe and has gradually become established in North America, where demand for outboard-driven cruisers continues to grow.

The Antares 11 positions itself between smaller weekender boats and larger full-size cruisers. Beneteau plans this model to appeal to boaters stepping up from dayboats or compact weekenders who want more room, range and onboard amenities, as well as to owners looking to downsize from larger cruisers without sacrificing creature comforts. According to Beneteau’s outboard boats sales team, the Antares line has been popular for decades for its weekending capability; the Antares 11 expands that mission with increased living space, innovation and smart use of layout.

One of the clearest benefits of the outboard configuration is the extra aft deck space, and Beneteau takes full advantage of it. The generous aft cockpit is protected by an extended hardtop and an optional canvas sunroof. Seating is arranged around an L-shaped lounge with a teak table, creating a social cockpit that’s ideal for entertaining or relaxing in the sun. To starboard, a flip-down topside/gunwale panel expands usable deck width and provides straightforward access to the water for swimming or boarding from a dock. Forward on the foredeck there’s a purpose-built two-person lounge sheltered by a low-profile Bimini; both the seatbacks and the Bimini fold flat into the deck when stowed, keeping the profile sleek and uncluttered.

The aft cockpit opens directly into the main salon through sliding glass doors, creating a seamless single-level entertaining area when open. The salon benefits from large window panels and overhead glazing: two opening hatches plus fixed glass sections keep the interior bright and well ventilated. To starboard the galley is equipped for extended cruising, with a two-burner stove, sink, refrigerator and an optional microwave, while to port an L-shaped sofa and dining table provide a comfortable area for meals and socializing. The helm sits to starboard, just behind a single-pane windshield, offering excellent sightlines and convenient access to the side deck through a wide sliding door.

Belowdecks, steps lead to two well-lit staterooms and a shared landing that improves circulation between cabins. The forward master stateroom features an island berth and hullside windows that give the impression of the berth floating above the waterline, enhancing natural light and views. A full-beam guest stateroom provides generous accommodations and also benefits from hullside glazing. The head includes an enclosed shower and is accessible from both the master and the companionway, making it practical for guests. Additional ventilation is provided by an overhead hatch in the main stateroom and opening ports in the hull-side windows.

Power is provided by twin Mercury four-stroke outboards, with 250-hp units standard and the expectation that many North American buyers will order the twin 300-hp option. Beneteau fits the Antares 11 with a modified-V hull featuring a sharp entry for confident handling through chop and a flared bow to reduce spray and provide a drier ride. Performance details vary with engine choice and load, and official figures were not available at the time of release.

With its combination of expansive cockpit, well-thought-out interior, and the practicality of outboard propulsion, the Antares 11 aims to capture a broad segment of the cruising market. It targets boaters who want a manageable, modern platform that still delivers many of the comforts found on larger cruisers—simpler to handle, easier to maintain and designed around maximizing usable space for socializing, overnighting and weekend cruising. The Antares 11 demonstrates Beneteau’s focus on blending comfortable liveaboard features with the versatility and accessibility of outboard power in today’s boating marketplace.