Beneteau Flyer 8 SUNdeck: why is it the benchmark for cabin day boats?

When it comes to day-boats, it is always complicated to choose between livability and performance, but apparently the French shipyard has once again managed to find the magic formula to blend these two elements and transform them into a vessel, the Flyer 8 SUNdeck.

Thanks to the Air Step®2 hull and an efficient use of internal spaces, this eight-meter boat is a benchmark for those looking for a sporty hull without sacrificing the comfort of a real cabin.

The hull of the Beneteau Flyer 8 (both in SUNdeck and SPACEdeck versions) is the true “technological heart” of the boat. Based on the exclusive Air Step® 2 patent, it is a technology that has revolutionized the behavior of Beneteau motorboats in the water. Thanks to this air cushion that is forcibly channeled under the hull, the Flyer 8 SUNdeck gets on plane faster and, above all, reduces impacts on waves, making navigation much more comfortable.

The advantages are also felt during turns, where the boat has a very stable attitude and maintains an impressively smooth navigation.

The exteriors

Unlike its sibling (the Flyer8 SPACEdeck), the Beneteau Flyer8 SUNdeck offers a truly spacious bow sunbathing area (perhaps one of the largest in its category), measuring 1.90 m in length x 1.5 m in width. The double cushions of the sunbathing area feature an adjustable backrest that transforms them into real chaise lounges, very comfortable both while cruising and at anchor for relaxation.

Moreover, the sunbathing area is recessed and features two handles that allow for a good grip if one decides to stay at the bow even when the sea is not completely calm. The left walkway is wider and allows easy access to the bow area.

The helm station and the T-top

The pilot and co-pilot seats are very enveloping and can rotate to integrate with the stern table, effectively becoming seats for dining. The rigid T-Top in black or white steel (very sporty) shades the stern area and allows for the installation of LED lights and rod holders.

The interiors

Truly exceptional volume for this eight-meter boat by Beneteau, a V-shaped dinette that occupies the entire bow, which can be used as a dining area during the day if the weather does not allow for outdoor dining, while at night it can transform into a surprisingly spacious bed, measuring 1.95 m in length x 1.60 m in width.

On the starboard side, there is a separate bathroom with a toilet and a sink, while on the left side, there is a space dedicated to the refrigerator where a microwave oven is located. The cabin is quite high at the entrance but reduces to 1.30 m in the sleeping area. Thanks to the two large hull windows and the central walkway, the brightness below deck is abundant; moreover, due to the choice of light materials, the environment is very pleasant and does not have a cave-like effect despite being on an eight-meter boat.

Beneteau Flyer 8 SUNdeck vs SPACEdeck: Which to choose?

Feature	SUNdeck	SPACEdeck
Main use	Weekend for two, relaxation, sunbathing.	Fishing, water sports, large groups.
Cabin	Real cabin with 2 berths and bathroom.	Technical/storage area with toilet.
Bow	Large fixed sunbathing area “like a castle”.	Open, walkable, and modular.
Circulation	Asymmetrical passage (left side).	Free passage on both sides.