Antares Yachts, now primarily known for its meticulously crafted Antares Catamarans, has carved a distinguished niche in the marine industry, specializing in blue-water cruising catamarans designed for serious liveaboards. The brand's journey is one of evolution, from its Canadian roots to its current Argentinian craftsmanship, always maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality, safety, and comfort for long-distance cruisers.
The Origin Story
The story of Antares Catamarans is deeply intertwined with that of PDQ Yachts, a Canadian boat builder. While the specific individual founder of the "Antares Yachts" entity is not widely publicized as a distinct original figure, the brand's identity truly began to form when Antares Yachts took over the sailboat division of PDQ Yachts in 2003. This pivotal moment effectively continued the legacy of the well-regarded PDQ catamarans. The legendary Antares 44 catamaran, which would become the brand's cornerstone, was first introduced by PDQ in 2004. The initial design of the Antares catamaran is credited to naval architect Ted Clements, whose vision focused on balancing the practical needs of cruisers with thoughtful design. This laid the groundwork for a vessel intended from its inception to be a robust and comfortable liveaboard.
History and Evolution
Following its Canadian origins and the acquisition of the PDQ sailboat line, Antares Yachts embarked on a significant geographical shift. The production moved from Canada to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the boats are now meticulously handcrafted by 40 Grados Sur. This transition marked a new chapter, allowing for expansion and refinement of the building process.
The Antares 44 model, initially built by PDQ until 2008, continued under the Antares Catamarans brand, evolving through various iterations such as the 44i, 44GS, and 44e. This continuity underscores the enduring quality of the original design. A major milestone in recent years was the release of the game-changing Antares 44 Hybrid model in 2022, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation while adhering to its core design principles. Despite the shift in manufacturing location, the brand maintains a strong connection to its North American client base, operating with an office in Whitby, Ontario, Canada.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Antares Catamarans holds a stellar reputation in the sailing world for producing some of the finest liveaboard and blue-water cruising catamarans. The brand is distinguished by its unwavering focus on the needs of the cruising couple, prioritizing luxurious interiors, essential comforts, and robust construction.
Their design philosophy emphasizes safety, seaworthiness, and a timeless aesthetic, ensuring their vessels are not only capable of ocean crossings but also comfortable for extended stays at anchor or in a marina. The boats are known for being "meticulously handcrafted" in Buenos Aires, reflecting a dedication to quality over mass production. Key design features often include well-engineered systems, comfortable living spaces, and a layout optimized for long-term cruising. While the original design for the Antares 44 is attributed to Ted Clements, the brand continues to refine and innovate its offerings, incorporating modern technologies and owner feedback to enhance the cruising experience.
Iconic Models and Legacy
The most significant and successful model in Antares Catamarans' history is undoubtedly the Antares 44. Since its introduction, it has been lauded as a "legendary catamaran" and has become synonymous with the brand's commitment to blue-water cruising. The Antares 44 has seen several iterations, including the Antares 44i, 44GS, 44e, and the recently introduced 44 Hybrid. These models are renowned for their versatility, proving capable of everything from extensive ocean voyages and coastal exploration to being comfortable residences in a marina.
While exact production numbers are not widely publicized, the consistent high regard for the Antares 44 series, and the fact that vessels from the mid-2000s are still highly sought after, speaks to their lasting impact and build quality. The focus has always been on producing a highly capable and comfortable cruising platform rather than a high-volume production boat.
The Builder Today
Today, Antares Catamarans continues its legacy of building world-class liveaboard vessels from its facility in Buenos Aires, Argentina, under the banner of 40 Grados Sur. The brand maintains its North American presence with an office in Whitby, Ontario. Antares boats primarily appeal to discerning cruising couples and families who seek a safe, comfortable, and capable platform for extended voyages and a liveaboard lifestyle.
The ownership experience is often characterized by a strong sense of community. Antares emphasizes that they "don't just build the boats; we sail and live aboard Antares Catamarans," fostering a close connection with their owners. This personal involvement, combined with a focus on continuous refinement and a commitment to quality, ensures that Antares Catamarans remain a top choice for serious blue-water cruisers in the global market.
