Beneteau USA introduced their new Flyer 12 to the US market this fall at the Newport International Boat Show. This is a boat not to be missed. We've  put together a "First Look" at this new express cruiser.  And, how does she look? Just Fabulous.

Be sure to take a look for yourself.

Volvo's IPS (Intelligent Propulsion System) Volvo's IPS System Makes Carving Tight Turns at High Speeds a Snap A Show Stopper for Sure ... First Debut in January  2005 This new hull design is also the first to benefit from the totally new propulsion system developed by Volvo – IPS (Intelligent Propulsion System). This innovative system – proposed as a variant of drive shaft transmission – leads to increased speeds, range and ease of handling. It made its first appearance on the world stage at the London Boat Show in January, 2005. Beneteau's Flyer 12 - Evolutionary Hull Design - Click for Full Screen Photo - The Flyer 12’s resolutely sporty line and electric hard top are designed for high-speed cruising in all conditions - even when the weather is not cooperating. Over and above the functionality and reliability recognized for the last 120 years, the Beneteau Flyer 12 is the embodiment of Beneteau's vision for motor yachting – genuine luxury and innovation.

Remarkable Outside and Inside With its extended and sporty lines, the Flyer 12 (designed by Patrick Sarrazin) does not pass unnoticed. However, the Beneteau Flyer 12 interior is not to be missed either. Beneteau's Flyer 12 - Glorious Open Interior - Click for Full Screen Photo - Over and above the intelligence of the accommodation layout, you will appreciate the panoramic view provided by the carefully worked curve of the windscreen and the incredible light from the opening roof.  The helm has remarkably well-designed ergonomics, superb equipment quality (adjustable height steering wheel, bench seat with footrest, etc.) and impeccable finish. The whole design concept is to produce harmonious on-board living conditions combining ease of circulation, 360° views of the ocean, natural light and ventilation. It was clear to us that everything about the Beneteau Flyer 12 had been thought through ...  the interior space, bathed in light streaming from the large picture windows, is subtly enhanced by leather, wood and glass to create an atmosphere of elegance. Beneteau's Flyer 12- A Helm any Captain would Love - Click for Full Screen Photo - Her instrument panel with instantly readable dials, state of the art electronics and improved ergonomics make your navigation both pleasurable and safe.  Easily a helm that any captain would love.

Beneteau Flyer 12 - Live Elegantly The alliance of Beneteau’s cabinet-making skill and Patrick Sarrazin’s signature on the design has created boats that are both elegant and remarkable in their finishing details.
Ceramic Range and Oven Stainless Sink Sliding Panels Open in a Flash for Storage	There is a feeling of space and great comfort in the interior of this boat bathed in natural light from the wide panoramic windows; the superb quality of the solid and molded wood, mellow varnished Mukali in color; the softness of the leather. The fittings are elegant and blend well with the boat’s lines. A full galley (ceramic range, microwave oven-grill, refrigerator, dishwasher as option) is cleverly concealed by sliding panels that open in a flash. And as the sun goes down, you will appreciate the very attractive salon table with its central bar. Beneteau Flyer 12: Exceptional Comfort with a Designer head with dark wood, opaline blue and stainless steel.
Benteau's Flyer 12 - An exquisite Stateroom - Click for Full Screen Photo - You will wait intently for nightfall, so you can turn on the Flyer 12’s underwater lights. Below the wheelhouse you will appreciate the space and superb comfort of your cabin designed very much in the spirit of an “owner’s” cabin. You will like the head compartment with its charming surroundings, a subtle partnership and “designer” look of dark wood, Opaline blue and stainless steel. And for total enjoyment, a second cabin to starboard with its own head compartment will welcome those lucky friends chosen to come aboard for the weekend or for a cruise.

Volvo's IPS vs Conventional Shaft Drive Beneteau's New Flyer 12 with Volvo Penta's IPS Volvo Penta IPS (Inboard Performance System) is a evolutionary marine propulsion system, setting new standards in relation to the conventional propeller shaft system: much improved efficiency, higher top speed, reduced fuel consumption/extended range, and great acceleration (noise reduced by 50%, acceleration improved by 15%, fuel range increased by 20%, max speed increased by 10%). Also, low-speed maneuvering is easier than ever before and high speed handling is a dream. Onboard comfort is greatly enhanced thanks to much lower levels of sound and vibrations, and installation is greatly simplified. IPS is easy to service, and the complete system can be supported by one supplier. All this is combined with the usual benefits of a traditional inboard such as a robust, high strength construction, excellent corrosion resistance and the propellers under the hull. IPS Flyer 12 vs Antares 12 Boat Test Comparison Translated from an Naucat review on IPS Beneteau's Flyer 12 turned out to be an ideal boat for comparing the IPS system to that of straight drive shafts. The Flyer 12 test included their new Antares 12 (not currently being introduced in the US) as well, which is built on an identical progressive planing deep-V hull, with the difference being it's modification for IPS propulsion. The test boat (prototypic hull number 2) had been equipped with twin engines - Volvo D6 370 EVC, IPS 500 propulsion system and T5 DPS propellers vs Beneteau's Antares 12 which has had identical engines but shaft drive. Upon leaving the marina with minimal speed of less than 3 knots, it was obvious IPS was easily maneuverable. True, inside the marina conditions were just perfect, but the fact is the Flyer was obedient like a best-trained race horse, moving predictably and without any deviation in any given direction. Outside, on the open sea, with the throttle to maximum, the Flyer 12 virtually took off. We reached 15 knots in a mere 7 seconds and 20 knots in 9 seconds, while soon reaching a maximum speed of 35 knots with total fuel consumption of 41 gallons per hour. Since we did not consider speed to be the most important feature, we paid more attention to stability and maneuvering abilities under maximum strain. Although trying our best and turning the wheel in every possible direction, we were not able to find any fault. It was not solely due to IPS, but also because of a very nicely designed underwater part of the Flyer´s hull (which was additionally confirmed by testing Antares 12). IPS is only an addition to a soundly done job of EDS Design studio and Beneteau´s engineers; since, if you had a deficient hull, not even IPS is omnipotent. Volvo Penta's IPS drives vs Conventional Drives Beneteau's Flyer 12 vs Antares 12 (identical hull designs) By comparing Flyer´s and Antares´ values, we get a true test comparison on consumption and speed (all based on the same engines, same weather conditions and approximate displacement values including fuel and water quantity and number of crew members. If the comparison is made by the same rpm, the Flyer 12 has better speeds and also the bigger consumption of Antares 12. Comparing speed and consumption, consumption is considerably favored with the IPS Flyer. By the speed of 20 knots, Flyer 12 has consumption of 18 gal./h and Antares 12, 75 and by 30 knots Flyer 12 has 30 gal./h and Antares 12 40. IPS comes into its own at higher speeds and test results were consistent with the manufacturer's claim of a 35% gain in efficiency. Comparisons of RPM support these findings: at 2800 rpm Flyer 12 attains 27 knots beside the consumption of 24 gal./h, and Antares 12 20 knots and 20 gal./h, while by 3600 rpm Flyer 12 attains 35 knots beside the consumption of 41 gal./h, and Antares 12 30.5 knots and identical 41 gal./h.   Speed Speed Flyer 12 IPS 20 knots 30 knots fuel consumption 18 gal./hr 30 gal./hr Antares 12 Conventional Drive 20 knots 30 knots fuel consumption 20 gal./hr 40 gal./hr   +12 % +35%   2800 rpm 3600 rpm Flyer 12 IPS 27 knots 35 knots fuel consumption 24 gal./hr 41 gal./hr Antares 12 Conventional Drive 20 knots 30.5 knots fuel consumption 20 gal./hr 41 gal./hr

Specifications, Deck Plan and Layouts The Antares 12 & Flyer 12 bears the signature of ESD's Patrick Sarrazin and exemplifies the new Flyer aesthetic with her pure, elegant and strong lines … in perfect harmony with the seaworthy qualities. Designer Overall length Hull length Hull beam Dry weight Fuel capacity Bénéteau & P. Sarrazin 41.'4"ft 39'3" 13'1" 19,610 lbs 317 gal. Judging by the drawings we've seen, she can be outfitted with either a classic drive shaft or the new IPS propulsion system (Volvo patent: Intelligent Propulsion System).