- Events and Regattas
The 500 HP Weekender: Beneteau Just Recalibrated the Canadian Escapade
A Landmark Presence in the North
The upcoming arrival of Beneteau at the Toronto International Boat Show 2026 will signal more than just a seasonal exhibition; it is set to mark the brand’s first-ever official participation as a constructor in Canada. Set to be located at Booth #144, the French powerhouse is partnering with regional titans Maple Leaf Marinas and Boisvert Marine to establish a definitive foothold in the Great Lakes and beyond. This isn’t merely about putting hulls in the water—it will be a calculated demonstration of refined European design tailored for the demanding Canadian boater.
The Weekender Reimagined: The Antares 9 V2
The centerpiece of the exhibit will undoubtedly be the all-new, redesigned Antares 9. This isn’t just a refresh; it is a sleek modern boat reimagined with innovations and enhancements taken from larger models in the line. Built for fun-filled weekends, the new version is engineered to be easier to move around and handle, ensuring that life on the water is even better in good company, whether anchored or cruising.
Social Architecture and Open-Air Living
Beneteau’s mastery of “smart design” is most evident in the Antares 9’s modular cockpit. The layout features a 6-foot-wide U-shaped bench that effortlessly converts into a sprawling sun pad. A hallmark of this iteration is the cockpit lounge that slides aft to expand social space when the engines are down, then slides forward 16 inches to allow for full engine tilt at the dock. This fluidity ensures that whether you are anchored in a quiet cove or hosting a dozen guests, the vessel adapts to the mission.
Performance Without the Noise
Beneath the sleek lines lies the Airstep® hull, a technology that uses a cushion of air to improve speed, comfort, and fuel efficiency. The Antares 9 is a deep-V cruiser with 23 degrees of transom deadrise, engineered to cut through choppy waters with aggressive stability. Equipped with twin Mercury 200s as standard—peaking at a combined 500 HP—the boat reaches 40 mph while maintaining a conversational noise level of just 78 dB(A) at cruise.
The Flyer 8: The Ultimate Day-Cruising Formula
Sharing the spotlight at Booth #144 will be the Flyer 8 SUNdeck, a model that displays the character and elegance of the new generation of Beneteau dayboats. Designed with the Smart Walkaround gangway for safe passage to the foredeck, the Flyer 8 is a tour de force for an 8-meter speedboat. It features two sunbeds with reclining seats and a comfortable cabin, making it the ideal host for day excursions and memorable moments afloat.
Connected Confidence: The Seanapps Integration
To ensure the boating experience is as effortless as possible, these new models come equipped with Seanapps. This integrated technology allows owners to easily connect, monitor, and order services for their boat with the touch of a finger. From tracking routine maintenance to requesting fuel or repairs, Seanapps provides the ultimate solution for those who want to spend more time enjoying their passion and less time managing it.
