CABIN SPACE
baggage and a variety of towed watersports.
If the performance feels optimised for multi-activity recreation, the layout enjoys similar flexibility. A pair of rotating helm seats and fold-down side benches with integrated cushions makes it very quick to turn the cockpit into a six-man dining station. And the fact that the aft bench is offset to starboard means that, even in sunpad mode, there is plenty of space to move unimpeded from the aft swim platform to the forepeak. The bow deck is quite elevated in order to generate the space for the cabin below but, with the new screen surround in one hand and the raised grab rail in the other, heading up the steps to the forward sunpad feels impressively secure, even in a beam sea.
As for the cabin itself, Beneteau has made intelligent use of limited space by means of an asymmetrical bed that measures 6ft 1in (1.85m) on the starboard side, before butting up against the optional fridge. On the port side, it extends further aft, creating a useful seat for getting changed, as well as some easy-access storage opposite the chemical toilet.
In the absence of any hull windows, natural light is quite restricted. In fact, with the sliding door shut, the only point of ingress is a small hatch, built into the forward part of the deckhead so it’s by no means the brightest or most open-feeling cabin, even for a 21-footer.
That said, there’s no doubt that the new Flyer 7 knows exactly where its priorities lie. While the bow cabin is a great storage space and a handy option for overnight ‘camping’, this is first and foremost a dayboat. It is designed to deliver an affordable, feel-good open boating experience, with fun performance, dynamic looks and a layout that can cater for eight in a variety of ways.
It does all of that to a degree that soundly trumps its predecessor while still sneaking under the £50,000 threshold, which in today’s market has to be considered a particularly good result.