Antares 7.8

[NickT]

A friend took delivery of his new boat today so we had to play!

Bit bumpy on the way to Cowes but with the all round cabin and patio doors we were dry as a bone..

[Bigplumbs]

I think your friend has new vehicle syndrome. That is where you listen to everything and get spooked by any odd noises

[annageek]

Looks amazing! Great videos! Just a touch jealous!!!

It's a very strange comparison, I know, but how, in terms of rough water handling and the feeling of safety it affords, how did this compare to your Fletcher, Nick? Is it even possible to draw a comparison? I know it's a bigger, heavier boat etc. Does being protected in the wheelhouse give the feeling of security, and also, does it take any of the exhilaration out of the experience? As you point out though, I'm sure it was welcome given the slightly chilly air at the moment!

Which engine does it have? I'm sure it was being driven gently to break the engine in a bit, but how did it feel power wise?

I think if we do change boats in the coming future, then having spent 90% of our time looking at this sort of thing at various boat shows, this would be well up our street. There's no way we could afford one, but if we could, this is what we would get... or possibly the similar sized Parker 750 Cabin Cruiser.

It's the potential of all year round boating and overnighting with a bit more indoor space that hugely appeals to us... saves me sitting around on forums talking about what bits of engine I have to spend money replacing

I've gotta say though, those windscreen wipers wiping away at a slightly different rate would piss me off no end!

[NickT]

Hi Anna,

It was a totally different experience actually, a bit like being in a caravan with lots of windows.

The weather was pretty much the same as when I went out last Sunday morning in the Fletcher. We did get a few splashes at 22kts as I didn't slow down as it got rougher - I was seeing how far I could go before I had to stop, and my mate needed waking up! You know how good your Fletcher is in rough seas - I have never been worried about its ability to cope since we have owned the boat.

I think you can't really compare the 2 boats as they are so different.

If you want excitement then I think being exposed to the weather in an open cockpit is where you need to be.

If it's peeing with rain then the Antares is the place to be!

Martin got up to 23kts today so we don't really know what she can do. I reckon around 30kts flat out in calm seas. Cabin space is great and there is an inside and outside table so it will be a sociable boat.

Engine is a Suzuki 150 - very smooth and quiet.

Lots of electronic toys to play with as well - I think there is an "admiring glances" meter somewhere...

Thanks for mentioning the windscreen wipers - just the sort of thing that Martin hates.

I am coercing him into joining the forum so he can tell you all about it as he finds his feet.

[CaptScarlet]

Morning All

The dual speed, non-synchronised wipers are a very expensive, optional extra on Antares boats ..... and highly effective too I might add!!

I shall recant further adventures in the Antares in due course as I "find my feet" .... pretty sure they're still at the end of my legs though! (Nick - are you implying that I'm overweight and can't see them?)

TTFN

"Coerced" of Swanwick

[Bigplumbs]

That is indeed a lovely boat and being an outboard pleases me as well. I also wonder about the difference of being inside verses being out in the elements experience wise. Main thing is to use and enjoy your boat as much as possible

Dennis

[Ianfs]

Welcome to the forum Cap'n Scarlet, that is one luverly boat you have there.

I'm sitting here now wondering if she might be called either Spectrum or Mysteron 1 and is she equipped with reverse metabolism.

I'm sure you are going to have many great times aboard her, I look forward to seeing more pics and vids of your outings.

I'm guessing you are at Swanwick? Are you drystacked or berthed?