Barracuda 7 - new in the Beneteau fishing range

by JW Marine on 17 Jul 2012 When they launched the new Barracuda range a year ago, Beneteau markedly changed the standards of sport fishing. By bringing versatility to this type of boat, which is also a wonderfully comfortable outboard for quick trips, Beneteau brought immediate success to the Barracuda 9, as much in the fjords of Northern Europe as on the Mediterranean, American and Pacific coasts.

This boat has been received enthusiastically all over the world, and as of September, the Barracuda 7 will extend this winning range with a unique style.

Planing hull designed specifically for this model, tulip-shaped bow, stylish and spacious wheelhouse, and a deck plan full of intelligence, this new single-engined 150 to 200 HP outboard, flies along at a top speed of 35 knots. Nothing could be better for following the shoals of fish as they change spots, or getting away for a few hours to explore untamed creeks.

Depending on your requirements, there is a choice of a fishing pack, or a 'well-being' pack, for a quick comfortable commuting boat.

Experts in trolling will particularly appreciate the general design of the hull, which makes the Barracuda 7 a highly stable seaworthy boat in all weather. Profiled and tulip-shaped, the bow safely cuts through the waves.

Casting with lures is carried out with great freedom of movement from the huge cockpit unhindered by any cap. Equipped with three lockers which can be converted into fish bins, it also has stowage to the starboard rear which can be used as an anchor locker or fish tank (on option), depending on your needs.

The search for an optimal beam, with a span of 2.75 m - exceptional on a 6.5 m outboard motorboat - makes it easy to walk around with large and deep catwalks and exceedingly protective 60 cm freeboards.

As for locating areas full of fish, the fisherman is in for a treat with the 10-inch screen on the instrument panel and the Barracuda 7's Lowrance electronics equipment. This includes the new 'Scan Structure' depth sounder system, by which you can enjoy the incomparable accuracy of sea floor vision.

Entered by two lateral sliding doors, the wheelhouse is comfortable both for the pilot and his passengers. The
importance attached to glazed surfaces, with, in particular, a sliding roof panel, bathes the interior in light, increasing
the feeling of space and providing pleasant ventilation.

The astonishing modularity of the Barracuda 7 allows for an extra galley with sink, a site for the stove, a refrigerator and storage. The presence of a fore cabin (double berth and separate toilet), which is remarkable on a 6.5 m boat, offers a real resting place.

Heating and air-conditioning of the wheelhouse are available on option.

Original and adaptable:
- Central wheelhouse can be entered on both sides by sliding doors and the 'walk around'.
- Very open cockpit which can hold up to seven people seated.
- Easier access to the rear, opening onto the cockpit.
- A bathing platform (on option) can be added to the rear, for greater comfort and easier bathing.
- Cockpit bench is removable to increase space.
- Large forward space where a lounging space can be fitted with sun bath (on option), and cushions to lean back on.
- There is a large anchor locker to the fore, with 2 means of access as well as an open pushpit.

The Barracuda 7 will be shown for the first time at the Festival de la Plaisance de Cannes (Cannes boat show) and the European Autumn boat shows: Oslo, Stockholm, Amsterdam, Istanbul, La Rochelle, Southampton, Genoa.

More at www.beneteau.com