Launched in September 2023, the Prestige M8 marked Groupe Beneteau’s entry into the very high-end superyacht segment. Although the M8 is less than 20 metres (65 feet) long, its 9-metre beam provides living space comparable to that of an 80-foot monohull. It offers more than 270 m² of living space. One significant advantage is that the boat remains within the regulatory framework applicable to recreational vessels under 24 metres in length. Above this threshold, a more demanding regulatory category applies, including requirements relating to a professional crew.
Another advantage lies in its catamaran design. Its finer hull entries and smaller wetted surface area compared with a monohull help reduce fuel consumption.
Drawing on three years of operational experience, the shipyard and Garroni Design have developed a new version of the M8, incorporating aesthetic, ergonomic and mechanical improvements.
Externally, the changes are relatively subtle: the hardtop’s gelcoat finish is now white, and the design of the hull windows has also been slightly revised.
The mechanical upgrades are more substantial. Whereas the previous version was powered by two 600 hp Volvo engines, the M8 Evo is equipped with two MAN engines producing 730 hp each. This allows the top speed to increase slightly beyond 20 knots. The additional power also provides a safety advantage, as having power in reserve can be reassuring when manoeuvring out of a potentially dangerous situation. Furthermore, the larger-displacement engines operate at lower RPM at equivalent speeds, which can help reduce fuel consumption.
For prospective buyers choosing between a Prestige M8 and an approximately 80-foot monohull to obtain comparable interior volumes, the first striking feature is the exceptional width of the central superstructure. The feeling of moving through a narrow corridor lined with a succession of separate rooms disappears. Instead, the spaces are open-plan, offering outstanding natural light and visibility. To find a monohull yacht with a comparable beam of almost 9 metres, buyers would indeed need to look at vessels around 45 metres, or nearly 150 feet, in length.
The owner’s suite, accessed through the forward section of the central superstructure, follows the same design philosophy. It occupies the full beam of the vessel and extends into the forward sections of both hulls. The result is a spacious suite featuring a generous bedroom, with its king-size bed positioned across the usual direction of travel. To port, two opposing dressing areas lead to a bathroom where the washbasins are positioned directly in front of the hull windows. A substantial tiled shower and a separate toilet compartment complete this luxurious suite, whose refined finishes extend down to the smallest details.
Four additional guest cabins are located in the hulls, completing the accommodation. There is also space for one or two crew cabins in the forward sections of the hulls.
The M8 has two helm stations: one in the central superstructure and another on the flybridge. With ideal weather conditions, we head to the flybridge to take the helm of this imposing power catamaran.
Cruising speed is relatively modest: this is not a boat designed for speed, but rather for covering long distances, following the same philosophy as a trawler yacht. At speeds above 20 knots under full power, fuel consumption rises to more than 250 litres per hour. At a leisurely cruising speed of 10 knots, consumption is approximately 36 litres per hour. Thanks to its 3,700-litre fuel capacity, the vessel offers a range of approximately 850 to 1,000 nautical miles.
At a faster cruising speed of 14 knots, fuel consumption ranges from 160 to 175 litres per hour, reducing the range to around 310 nautical miles.
Unlike the Gran Turismo 50, which we tested on the same day, the helm experience is not reminiscent of a sports car. Nevertheless, the boat’s handling remains dynamic. The available engine power helps counteract the inertia associated with a displacement of 44 tonnes and an overall length of 65 feet.
Underway, noise levels seem lower than on the previous version. Groupe Beneteau appears to be making effective progress in improving sound insulation across its latest models, as also demonstrated by the Grand Trawler 63.
Photos ) Louis Taurel