Beneteau Flyer 9 Review

This time we are going to discuss Beneteau Flyer 9 - both SUNdeck and SPACEdeck versions, their advantages and differences.

Photos, schematics, video galleries and reviews from professional yachting journalists will help you understand why Beneteau Flyer 9 in its two incarnations was named the best European Powerboat of the Year 2021.

In 2021, the French shipyard Beneteau proudly announced that their family of motor yachts has been expanded with 9-meter outboard twins - Flyer 9 SUNdeck and Flyer 9 SPACEdeck.

Michael Guinet, who oversees the development and production of Beneteau's outboard-powered models, said the new powerboats perfectly reflect the spirit of the shipyard's day cruisers. Naval architects and designers used the same recipe as for their predecessors, but eliminated their shortcomings and optimized all their strengths as much as possible. The new boats remain the embodiment of Flyer's spirit, but at the same time even more comfortable, with improved seaworthiness, so that the boating pleasure becomes the most comprehensive.

The folding platform on the port side is one of the main new features on the Flyer 9. On the one hand, it expands the cockpit and provides a beautiful view from the dining area. Optimization of cockpit space has traditionally been given a lot of attention in previous models of the Flyer series.

SUNdeck version builds on solutions invented for the Flyer 10, which appeared in 2019. In particular, the Flyer 9 SUNdeck has a wide, secure SmartWalk to the port bow, while in the SPACEdeck version, two side decks go around the wheelhouse.

Flyer 9 powerboats feature impressive modularity features that allow them to meet all the expectations of yachtsmen, be it sunbathing, family vacations at sea, coastal sailing with friends or fishing.

The bow area of the SPACEdeck option will be appreciated by fishermen. The space here is uncluttered, high sides and a wide gunwale guarantee safety. At the same time, the reduced handrails do not interfere with casting. Also, with this modification you get an optional fishing station and above-water rod holders.

At the same time, the optional additional sofa will turn the bow of the Flyer 9 SPACEdeck into the same sunbathing space as the SUNdeck version.

For offshore sailing, the company on board Flyer 9 will have to be limited to 6 people. But during coastal navigation the number of passengers can reach 10 people.

Two Suzuki 250 HP engines combined with an Air body Step 2 allow the Flyer 9 to accelerate well and at the same time guarantee the steering comfort and joy from driving.

Beneteau's patented Air V-shaped composite body technology Step has been successfully used on the brand's yachts up to 50 feet for over 15 years. Air Step is designed to provide the boat with more dynamic acceleration, reduced fuel consumption, stable and controlled maneuvering, as well as a smoother ride in rough seas.

Here’s the essence of the technology: air passes through the side pocket air intakes to a special arrow-shaped step on the bottom of the boat, from where it spreads along the longitudinal steps along the bottom in the aft part of the hull. Thanks to this, an air “lubricant” is formed, which helps reduce friction between the hull surface and the water, which at high speeds significantly affects the efficiency of the planing vessel. Numerous tests carried out over the years of using the technology have revealed its versatility, as well as the stability of the air “cushion” when sailing not only in calm waters, but also in moderate waves.

Today, technology continues to develop. In close cooperation with Volvo Penta Beneteau company developed the second generation of Air Step. Thanks to extensive research (it took more than 18 months and 350 hours of testing), engineers managed to achieve Air Step compatibility with IPS.

Beneteau representatives presented new models with special pride and hope. And it all paid off: Flyer 9 was awarded the best European Powerboat of the Year 2021 in the “up to 10 meters” category.

Features of Beneteau Flyer 9

Maximum Speed and Fuel Consumption

Review of Beneteau Flyer 9 by topRik Team

What distinguishes the Beneteau shipyard from other famous manufacturers is that the shipyard constantly studies the needs of customers, and immediately tries to respond to the slightest changes in demand. Sometimes this results in the creation of twin boats, which differ little from each other in excellent seaworthiness, but have differences in the purpose and structure of life on board.

First Look

“In my opinion, they are the same,” one of the experts said thoughtfully as we approached the pier, “except for the handrails on the bow and the side window...”

It was this difference in the profile exterior that suggested that it’s not quite so simple. This difference indicated that a boat with low railings provided protection for passengers due to its higher sides, while a boat with side glazing had a full-beam cabin. The space was clearly organized differently. All that remained was to get on board to find out what the difference was between SUNdeck and SPACEdeck.

At the Transom

If we limit ourselves to looking at the transom, then both versions will be almost identical - both versions offer the option of one or two motors, which are mounted on a powerful transom board.

Two islands provide ample space for those who want to dive into the sea; for their convenience, it is possible to equip the platforms with a folding ladder. Don’t rush to say that this is not enough for the 6-10 passengers that the Flyer 9 boats are designed for. Now is the time to go up to the cockpit, since the main difference is right there.

Inside the Cockpit

Here it is - the feature that has updated Flyer's DNA is a folding beach platform that at the same time significantly expands the cockpit area.

In the photo above you see the cockpit of the SPACEdeck version, and in the photo below you see the cockpit of the SUNdeck. Do you notice the difference? No? We didn’t notice right away too, because the cockpit in both versions is almost the same: a passage from the platform on the port side, the dining area is shifted to the starboard side without a passage along the side deck.

By the way, in both versions the dining area easily turns into a sun bathing area: the table is lowered, an additional mattress is placed on it – and it’s ready!

And here, at the transition from the cockpit to the wheelhouse, the similarities between the two versions of Flyer 9 end.

Inside the Wheelhouse

You can enter the SPACEdeck saloon from both the right and left sides. The wheelhouse here is located in the middle of the deck along the longitudinal line.

In addition to its direct purpose as a control post, the T-top deckhouse can be used as a support for spinning rods if you plan to do some trolling fishing.

The SPACEdeck control station has a helm in the form of a car steering wheel and a panel with a classic yachting set of navigation equipment, communications and indicators that allow you to monitor the operation of all equipment that ensures the life of the yacht – just like on much bigger Beneteau vessels.

The windshield surrounds the helmsman on three sides, protecting him from strong winds in the face, but if desired, you can experience the wind in your hair if you steer the boat while standing. As you can see in the photo above, this double seat is convertible.

But in the SUNdeck version, you can only enter the helm station from the port side - here Beneteau demonstrates all the advantages of the proprietary deck, developed according to the SmartWalk principle. You can see its capabilities in the diagram below.

In addition to unprecedented freedom of movement, there is also the opportunity to place an outdoor galley across the aisle from the control station! You can choose a grill, gas or electric stove as a working panel for the galley.

At the same time, the control station remained as complete and full of all the necessary equipment as in the SPACEdeck version.

The same double seat in front of the helm station, at the base of which you can place an additional refrigerator or freezer.

On the upper deck we only have to explore the bow of each version of the Flyer 9, which are also significantly different from each other.

At the Foredeck

Here we go along both side decks if we are on the SPACEdeck version, or only along the port side if you choose SUNdeck.

In the latter case, we see a picture, most of which is occupied by a sunbathing area for 3 people. Looking at this huge lounger, we understand why such high handrails were needed along the sides, especially at the starboard.

But the foredeck of the SPACEdeck version is a classic bow cockpit, which can be left in its original form if the Flyer 9 is intended to be used for fishing. It is with this use in mind that the metal handrails are lowered here. And the height of the sides allows this, ensuring the safety of passengers.

But here you can also organize a comfortable relaxation area with sun loungers and a soft sofa.

A bowsprit platform can be equipped on both versions, since their dimensions, including the width of the bow, are the same. This is convenient if the yacht is moored bow-to.

The width of the bow allows you to place an anchor installation in the locker here.

Inside the Cabins

Beneteau naval architects Powerboats can no longer hide that they received their diplomas from Hogwarts. Otherwise, it is impossible to explain how they managed to squeeze under the deck of a 9-meter motor yacht two fairly spacious double cabins, a quite normal-sized bathroom with an isolated shower, and in the SUNdeck version, also a quite decent galley.

The photo below is proof of our revelation: the same galley with a sink, refrigerator, microwave, storage cabinets, and also a double bed next to it.

Another double bed in the bow can be transformed from the furniture of a cozy wardroom.

Remember, we mentioned the modularity of the Flyer 9, and demonstrated its use in the cockpit. Here we have the same case: the tabletop is lowered to the level of the seats and covered with a mattress. It turns out to be a large double bed, and even with an open locker under it.

Side windows and a skylight provide natural light and fresh air. The main thing before relaxing in this cabin is to remember to take off the mattress from this hatch at the bow deck.

The other sleeping area is also surrounded by shelves and cabinets for storing personal items. As you can see, there is also an opening porthole to provide fresh air.

The size and location of the berths, as well as other areas of the Flyer 9 SUNdeck below deck, are well depicted on this schematic.

While checking it, we realized that we had not yet demonstrated an isolated bathroom with a washbasin, toilet and shower.

Judging by the organization of the below-deck space on Flyer 9 SPACEdeck, this boat is not designed for long cruising. This is a typical weekend boat, when its participants do not count on the possibility of cooking on board, but take ready-made food with them. Despite the fact that the yacht has a refrigerator, the architects abandoned the galley in any form. Therefore, the layout of the below-deck space of this boat simply looks like a comfortable and spacious sleeping area with an isolated bathroom.

Bow cabin with large double bed, storage, opening porthole and overhead hatch, same as SUNdeck.

The second berth, located along the entire width of the midsection, is no less in size. The height, of course, is not enough, but do not forget about the size of the yacht. This is essentially a very comfortable motor boat.

It is equipped with a full bathroom with a washbasin, toilet and shower. Some may not like this proximity to the bed, but don’t forget about the size of the boat.

Now you have an idea of the differences between Flyer 9 SUNdeck and Flyer 9 SPACEdeck. The experience of the topRik team shows that the developers had targeted the category of yachtsmen who will like each of the options. There are some things that you might not need in each version but all the necessities for a cruise, fishing or a one-day vacation at sea are present. Very smart and far-sighted!

At the Sea

The helm station is very ergonomic, and additional adjustments are available for a specific skipper. All instruments and a powerful engine control handle are located at a convenient distance, as they say, at hand.

Our boat was equipped with two 225 HP Mercury engines. To be honest, such power seemed excessive to us; we were afraid that this small and light boat would be jumping of the water, or that it would yaw too much.

But from the very first ten knots, from the moment it entered planing, and with a further increase in speed, it became clear that the Air Step hull of the second generation is no joke - absolutely smooth ride at any speed. Of course, we tried to exceed the maximum speed by 2 knots, but did not risk further. Our Flyer 9 SUNdeck performed excellently in smooth water and in waves from other vessels and when crossing its own wake.

As for fuel consumption, it seemed optimal to us if we choose between maximum, average and minimum cruising speed.

The first one is 40 knots declared by the manufacturer with a fuel consumption of 157 liters per hour. With an average cruising speed of 35 knots, fuel consumption was 125 liters per hour. But the speed of 21 knots will please you with an almost modest consumption of 70 liters per hour.

Advantages of Beneteau Flyer 9

The main advantage of Beneteau Flyer 9 is a choice for different categories of yachtsmen. The SUNdeck sunbathing boat and SPACEdeck activity boat can meet almost any day cruiser needs for a small group.

In the case of Beneteau boats, the Air Step hull cannot be missed as one of the main advantages. It is this hull shape and the technology of air cushion formation that allows the boat to maintain stability at high speed and in waves.

In many aspects, naval architects and designers can be seen caring for the safety of passengers and the helmsman: high sides, handrails not only around the perimeter, but also in other places, in particular, at the helm station.

A thoughtful layout allows you to comfortably accommodate on board of both versions of Beneteau Flyer 9 from 6 to 10 people, with an overnight stay on board for two couples. This makes it possible to use the boat not only for a one-day weekend, but also for coastal and even offshore cruising, if we are talking about the SUNdeck version , which has galleys on deck and below.

Reviews of Beneteau Flyer 9 from Professionals

We present reviews of the Flyer 9 from professional yachtsmen writing for the yachting media. Chloe Torterat from Boats News briefly presented the shipyard's new products at that time, and Kevin Falvey shared his own experience of testing one of the versions at sea.

Kevin Falvey Article

In the title of his review, the author managed to combine the names of both versions of the Flyer 9, mentioning the space deck of this model, although Kevin himself tested the Flyer 9 SUNdeck on Chesapeake Bay.

Of course, you should also check out the story about testing the speed of the boat - he describes the behavior of the yacht and his own emotions so vividly. Let us just note that the boat he tested had two 250 HP Mercury V-8 FourStroke outboard engines.

Of course, part of this short review was devoted to the interior and accessories. And here, Kevin ends almost every paragraph with the exclamation: “Oh, man”.

He gave high marks to the patented Air-Step enclosure, fold-down deck and unique layout.

He had comments about the fishing rod holder and the finishing in some places.

Interesting note: Kevin, at the time of writing this review, has not found a competitor to this boat in the same price segment and with the same layout.

At the end of the review, a detailed table is provided with the test results for speed and fuel consumption.

Chloe Torterat Article

This was one of the first reports that Beneteau was completing its day boat size range with two Flyer 9 models.

Introducing SUNdeck and SPACEdeck versions to her readers, Chloé spoke about the history of the creation of the line and what characteristic features the new models adopted from their predecessors.

The author briefly talked about each version, noting their different purposes and the advantages of each version for a certain target aurdience.

Video Reviews of Beneteau Flyer 9

To paint the full picture, let’s start with the video, where both versions are compared side by side:

Next is the walkthrough of Flyer 9 SPACEdeck:

Flyer 9 SPACEdeck on the waves shown from different angles:

The incredible footage of SUNdeck version on the waves:

Tour of Flyer 9 SUNdeck – exteriors and interiors showcased in detail:

Conclusion

Easy to operate, relatively economical in fuel consumption, fast, when necessary, very roomy for their 9-meter length, Flyer 9 SUNdeck and Flyer 9 SPACEdeck, however, have differences in their purpose, and therefore are designed for different categories of yachtsmen.

Flyer 9 SUNdeck is more suitable for those who enjoy long coastal or offshore cruises. Considering that the boat is equipped with two types of galley, the SUNdeck version is ideal for:

• family vacation, because it is comfortable and stable;
• those who like to go to sea alone;
• small companies if an overnight stay is expected;
• large companies of up to 10 people, if going to sea does not involve an overnight stay;
• speed lovers;
• those who are tired of the sails, but want to go out at the sea anyway;
• for novice sailors, since the controls are very easy and convenient.

Flyer 9 SPACEdeck is chosen by lovers of more active but shorter holidays at sea:

• fishermen;
• divers;
• skiers;
• underwater hunters.

But of course, this is also a great weekend boat for those who want to sunbathe, swim and have fun with family or friends over the weekend, perhaps with an overnight stay.

There is one category for which both versions are ideal - those who provide charter services: such boats will be in great demand and will quickly pay for themselves.

Where to Buy Beneteau Flyer 9 at a Bargain Price

If you are seriously concerned where to buy Beneteau Flyer 9 at a competitive price, you can consult with our team when it comes to the best possible offer.

To get started, for free and even without registration, you can go to price calculator – this virtual yacht configuration will allow you to choose your Beneteau Flyer 9 SUNdeck or Beneteau Flyer 9 SPACEdeck and find out the cost.

As you select your configuration, ask our experts questions. Experienced sailors who have been assembling and servicing our SimpleSail fleet for many years will advise you free of charge on the configuration of the boat. This will help you choose a version that takes into account everything you need, but excludes the unnecessary features – there’s no need to overpay.

You can delegate to the experts of our trading platform all other problems related to choosing the option that is profitable for you, negotiations with the manufacturer or dealer, preparing documents, checking the equipment and condition of the boat, and moving the yacht to the specified location.

To receive comprehensive services from our experienced team, call the telephone number provided, send a message to [email protected] or use the website’s quick contact form (Contacts section).