Beneatau brings 9.80 launch to New Zealand

By ROBIN BAILEY

Due in New Zealand at the end of the month is another imported boat that will provide a new quality benchmark for the local industry. The Beneteau 9.80 has established a reputation in Europe as a great all-round performer following its launch at the Paris Boat Show last year.

Gary Erceg, who heads the local Beneteau agent Yachtfinders Global, says the 9.80 is based on its larger sister, the 13.80, which has been recognised for its seaworthiness and outstanding performance.

"Both boats are the result of a great deal of research and development," he says. "Tunnel technology has been implemented to make the propellers more efficient and increase the range. The V-shaped flared hull ensures good handling at slow speeds as well as at the top end. The 9.80 is powered by twin 230hp Volvo engines which make it an ideal getaway boat for the Hauraki Gulf, the Bay of Islands or down in the Marlborough Sounds.

"New Zealanders love to fish and the 9.80 has a patented transom which enables the cockpit or aft platform to be adapted to suit the activity of the moment. Safe walk-around access to the foredeck and side decks is provided by an enclosed wraparound pulpit that stretches from bow to cockpit, which is ideal for kids."

Beneteau is the world's leading builder of production sailing boats. The company has a staff of more than 1500 and is represented in 28 countries. The latest factory to open covers 18,400 sq m and has six production lines. Research plays an important part in every aspect of the company's operation, and top designers including Group Finot and Bruce Farr ensure buyers get the best.

The cruising line of Oceanis sailing boats has yachts up to the Farr-designed Oceanis 57ft offshore cruiser. The performance yachts in the stable of racer/cruisers include the First 36.7, First 40.7 and the First 47.7 that have been making their mark on race tracks around the world, Hamilton Island and the Kenwood Cup included.

With the focus in this part of the world on the success of Farr designs as cruising and performance sailboats, many people are not aware that the company has a long tradition of building fishing boats. Naval architect Benjamin Beneteau designed the first motor tuna boat for his fledging shipyard in 1912, which led to a new concept of day fishing boats.

Today that experience has allowed the company to continue developing power craft to complement its range of production sailboats. These range from small open day boats to the 13.80 and the new 9.80 on its way to the Hauraki Gulf.

Erceg says technological innovation has not led to completely radical or avant garde design and the 9.80 (32ft) is an ideal size for the New Zealand boating family. The interior has traditional warm wooden joinery and open sea views.

The main cabin has a walk-around queen-size bed which is unusual for a boat of this size. With its focus on safety, performance and comfort, he is certain the Beneteau 9.80 will be a big hit with local buyers.

LOA: 9.95m

Beam: 3.40m

Displacement: 5500kg (approx)

Draft: 0.80m

Max engine power: 2 x 230hp

Berths: 4/6

Fuel capacity: 640l

Price: $357,000

Yachtfinders Global