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Beneteau introduces two new dayboats in its Flyer segment, the new Flyer 8 SPACEdeck and SUNdeck, models based on the same hull (8.17 m), but with particularly different configurations. Designed for sporting activities, fishing and active recreation the one, cabin cruiser and more inclined to relaxation the other, they turn out to be at once as similar as they are distant, suitable in short, for a wide variety of needs. Powered up to 350 horsepower and with promising performance, we tested both to satisfy our doubts and curiosity. Here are our impressions, and don’t miss the video and data sheets if you want to have an even more in-depth comparison.
Starting with the hull, which is the same for both models, there are water lines typical of the segment, with a forward projection that hints at remarkable dynamism, which is even more pronounced in the versions equipped with a T-top, optional in both models. Shifting attention to the design as a whole, however, the profile of the boat changes instead, less aggressive in the SPACEdeck version, where the center console is structured differently than its sister, to maximize, however, the deck spaces, here larger than in its cabin cruiser sister.
Speaking of the Flyer 8 SPACEdeck, a ‘more dynamic’ and activity-dedicated version, we first have two swim platforms on the side of the outboard, ideal for easy access, both from the dock and from the water. From here there is immediate access to the modular cockpit, where two configuration options are presented. In fact, we find a fishing station with compartments for gear and catch, a fold-down bench and a live bait tank in the fishing version, or a sofa that can be converted into a sundeck in the more relaxation-oriented version. In both cases, a ski-naut pole is optionally installed, confirming the sporting attitude the model is designed for, while the pulpits are slightly lowered, facilitating catch retrieval even from the bow.
Regardless of the configuration, the cockpit also consists of a removable center table, two fold-down benches recessed into the bulwarks, and two armchairs in the wheelhouse, rotatable on themselves to accommodate up to 6 to 8 people in the convivial area thus created. The centrally located driver’s console houses full instrumentation and features access to the underdeck, a space dedicated to accommodate luggage, equipment plus the optional refrigerator and toilet. Instead, a relaxation area, complete with sofas and space for a table, is presented in the bow. Regarding the latter, one can opt between using the same table in use in the cockpit, or equipping the boat with two of these, removable and stowable in lockers under the cockpit. Regardless, lowering the forward table and placing the dedicated cushions on it provides a large sundeck.
Starting from the stern, the Flyer 8 SUNdeck also features the double swim platform to the side of the outboard, and then offers a cockpit similar to the previous one, but slightly wider. Here, too, we find a convivial area equipped with hideaway sofas and benches, with a central table and bow seats usable both from the wheelhouse and at the table. The driver’s station, however, consists of a totally different structure, no longer set up as a center console but more sporty and surrounded entirely by a dashboard. Here we find access to the below deck, while from the sides we reach the forward portion equipped with a double sundeck and raised above the cockpit.
Unlike the SPACEdeck, the Flyer 8 SUNdeck finally offers a cabin below deck, created by raising the forward deck. We then find here, through wheelhouse access, a separate toilet (optional) and a V-shaped berth with table in the aft section, which can be lowered to make a large double bed. A small kitchen is available here as an option.
In terms of sailing, the two Flyer 8s offer similar characteristics, with good handling and sea keeping, especially in the context of our test, with calm seas and no wind. With top speeds close to 40 knots, both boats prove maneuverable and respond well to the controls, presenting a good ‘grip’ even in the tightest turns, proving to be a safe design. At speeds below 30/33 knots, sailing is comfortable and dry, and even as passengers, one enjoys a comfortable and pleasant boat. Particularly noteworthy on this side is the forward space of the SPACEdeck, where the comfortable and well-protected seats , allow them to be used even above 30 knots while keeping dry.
At higher speeds, above 32 knots, perhaps the differences in configuration between the two begin to be more noticeable, mainly due to the different weight distributions on board and which, personally, seem to provide cleaner sailing to the Flyer 8 SPACEdeck, which, however, in the context of our test, was powered by ‘only’ 300 horsepower, as opposed to the 350 installed on the SUNdeck. Overall, however, both Flyer 8s prove to be good and safe designs, capable of gliding as early as around 16 knots and extremely quick to stop even from challenging speeds, a detail to consider for any emergency context.
In terms of more technical details, both boats include a minimum outboard motor of 250 horsepower and a maximum of 350, served by a 340-liter fuel tank. In the case of our test, the Flyer 8 SPACEdeck was powered by 300 horsepower, unlike the Flyer 8 SUNdeck, heavier, powered by 350 horsepower. Four people were on board during the trials, and the fuel tanks were full on both occasions, unlike the water tanks, which were completely empty.
| RPM | SPACEdeck – 300 HP | SUNdeck – 350 HP |
| 600 | 2.1 kn – 2.4 L/h | 2.6 kn – 2.5 L/h |
| 1000 | 4.2 kn – 4.5 L/h | 4.2 kn – 4.7 L/h |
| 1500 | 6.1 kn – 7.8 L/h | 6.0 kn – 8.0L/h |
| 2000 | 7.3 kn – 11.6 L/h | 7.2 kn – 12.5 L/h |
| 2500 | 7.6 kn – 18.5 L/h | 8.0 kn – 22.0 L/h |
| 3000 | 9.7 kn – 27.8 L/h | 11.5 kn – 32.0 L/h |
| 3500 | 15.6 kn – 32.5 L/h | 17.1 kn – 36. L/h |
| 4000 | 21.2 kn – 41.6 L/h | 24.7 kn – 48.0 L/h |
| 4500 | 26.8 kn – 55.1 L/h | 28.0 kn – 60.0 L/h |
| 5000 | 31.0 kn – 71.8 L/h | 33.1 kn – 72.2 L/h |
| 5500 | 35.0 kn – 95.6 L/h | 36.0 kn – 105.9 L/h |
| 5900 | 38.2 kn – 106 L/h | 42.1 kn – 113.1 L/h |
| Features: | Flyer 8 SPACEdeck | SUNdeck |
| Length F. Everything (LOA) | 7.09 – 8.17 m | 8.09 – 8.17 m |
| Hull Length (LOH) | 6.96 m | 6.96 m |
| Max Beam. | 2.53 m | 2.53 m |
| Fishing | 0.50 – 0.90 m | 0.50 – 0.90 m |
| Vacuum Displacement | 2 126 kg | 2 251 kg |
| Outboard Motorization | 250 – 350 HP | 250 – 350 HP |
| Maximum Speed (C) | 42 kn | 42 kn |
| Fuel Tank | 340 L | 340 L |
| Water Tank (optional) | 80 L | 80 L |
| Beds | – | 2 |
| Contact | www.beneteau.com | www.beneteau.com |
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