The Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 vs Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 at 35,0 ft versus Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 at 35,6 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 tips the scales at 13 448 lbs — 573 lbs less than the Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 at 12 875 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 tops out at 29 hp. Engine specs for the Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 carries 169 gallons versus 20 gallons in the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 10 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 has a documented displacement of 13 448 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 draws 6,2 ft, compared to 2,0 ft for the Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008. That 4,2-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.
The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 has a documented auxiliary engine of 29 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 carries 85 gallons versus 67 gallons on the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Antares 10.80 2008 and Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 343 2004 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.