Yacht Class n°42 (Sept-Oct-Nov 2025)

Prestige yachts – Groupe Beneteau

Embark for a few miles aboard the latest addition to Prestige’s M Line range. On the programme: lots of space, a very Italian design and great sailing consistency.

Text and photos : Nicolas Massines.

Unveiled in the port of Portopiccolo, not far from the shipyard where she was launched (owned by the Beneteau group based in Monfalcone), the Prestige M7 awaits the time to cast off. Sunny and warm, the Italian afternoon on the Adriatic coast is barely disturbed by a light five-knot breeze, promising a fine sailing trip in the calm waters of the Bay of Sistiana. Among the classic sailing boats and other motoryachts in the harbour, the silhouette of the catamaran brings about an imposing presence. High and wide over the water – her air draught peaks at 5.45 m and her beam reaches 7.56 m – she nonetheless conveys an impression of sportiness due, among other things, to her inverted bows, her negative sheer at the bow, and her freeboard, which slopes down from amidships and gradually tapers off to the stern, which ends in a vast platform. This platform can be adjusted in 4 positions: raised when the boat is under way, aligned to serve as a solarium, lowered in private pool mode and finally, it can be completely submerged and used as a boarding platform if the arrival is by tender. Two areas surrounding the platform and a port side entrance complete the boarding options.

A pervasive impression of space

Once you have taken your first steps aboard, you will have the same feeling throughout the test: the space and deck layout convey feelings that are typical of a much larger unit. For example, the stern extended by the platform offers all the benefits of a very large beach club, designed to turn this area into a play or rest area for as many people as possible. The L-shaped bench seat and semi-circle settee, the protection of the stainless steel railings and doors, combined with the height of the bulwarks, will delight families. But let’s start with the upper part of the Prestige M7, the flybridge. Accessible via a sheltered staircase on the port side, its secure access and back-to-step ascent elicit knowing and approving glances from those who use it. Passenger safety is a key point in naval design, and the M7 stands out favourably for her natural protection from the elements. Once we had climbed the eight steps, it was in the shade of the vast hard-top that we enjoyed the various living areas: a galley area and bench seat in the most remote part, a dining area for eight on starboard with a large teak table (like the rest of the deck) and matching seats, a fairly low helm station and a panoramic view of the environment, ideal for visual observation and contemplation.

Refinement expressed in simplicity

Back on the main deck, access to the saloon is either from the stern, via the huge sliding glass window, or through a door at staircase level. Sober tones dominate: from the grey oak furniture to the Italian Garbelotto wood flooring, refinement is expressed in simplicity. The sea invites itself into the saloon through the large windows, and navigation can be monitored and controlled from the chart table at the very front. The steering joystick has been moved inside for added convenience, which will undoubtedly be much appreciated on watch. The forwardmost staircase, leading to the owner’s suite, adjoins the helm station and leads to a remarkable living space. The full-width 20 m2 owner’s cabin is worthy of a Grand Luxe hotel suite. In addition to the central bed and the reading light on the starboard side, the desk and wardrobe made from glass and aluminium elements complete this restful setting. The headroom fulfils all expectations, while the bathroom has two washbasins and an opening onto the sea. The natural ceramic shower adds a touch of colour to a very successful picture. Two further staircases on either side of the saloon lead to a guest cabin on starboard with a remarkable view of the outside, while a twin cabin is on port. Although the angle of the companionways is steep, the addition of handrails will compensate for this slight disadvantage. To complete this visit, you need to use the gangways to get to the tip of the Prestige M7. Here, two huge solariums form large islands of relaxation, perfect for chilling out with friends.

A range of 1,200 miles at 8 knots

It is time to get some height and take the helm, as navigation will take place from the flybridge. At this height, you can anticipate the nautical environment as accurately as possible. The two 22-inch screens are perfectly legible. As acceleration progresses, the bow rises to an acceptable level. There is no inappropriate pitching, and the responsiveness of the controls makes you forget the catamaran’s light weight of almost 3.6 tonnes. The engine is powered by two Volvo Penta D8 diesels with 550 hp in V Drive, fed by a tank containing almost 3,000 litres of fuel. Fuel consumption remains under control, with a boat carrying 16 people consuming 19 litres per hour at 8 knots. This results in a very satisfactory theoretical range of 1,200 nautical miles. The speed over the water gradually increases and comfort on board remains high, with passengers moving around with ease. From the upper deck, sailing aloft is done in appreciable sound comfort. This is a quality of the Prestige M7 that is also found inside, where no particular resonance disturbs the cockpit or the cabins. The power build-up continues, settling the boat into her lines and gliding easily along at a cruising speed of 16/17 knots. Maximum speed peaks at 20 knots, without disturbing the enjoyment of the passengers or the trim of the boat. The few miles sailed on board the Prestige M7 are conclusive. This boat has many qualities, such as her finish and habitability, but she is also very consistent in her sailing plans. Her aesthetics will undoubtedly appeal to fans of comfortable cruising, without sacrificing a touch of sportiness.