The Beneteau Antares 6 0 vs Beneteau First 27 2018 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau First 27 2018 measures 26,2 feet overall (2018), giving it roughly 8,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Antares 6 0 at 18,1 feet. At 3 086 lbs and 3 042 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 115 hp, the Beneteau Antares 6 0 has a 105-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 27 2018's 10-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau First 27 2018 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Beneteau Antares 6 0 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau First 27 2018 could be the deciding factor.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 3 086 lbs for the Beneteau Antares 6 0 and 3 042 lbs for the Beneteau First 27 2018. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 27 2018 draws 6,5 ft, compared to 1,1 ft for the Beneteau Antares 6 0. That 5,4-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.
For auxiliary power the Beneteau Antares 6 0 carries a 115-hp engine against 10 hp on the Beneteau First 27 2018. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
The Beneteau First 27 2018 is trailerable — a genuine advantage for sailors who prefer to keep their boat at home or explore multiple sailing venues.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 27 2018 at 26,2 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Antares 6 0 at 18,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.