The 2026 International Multihull Show has concluded its most global edition to date, featuring a record fleet of 82 multihulls and a growing international presence that underscores the market’s dynamism and diversification, particularly in segments such as powercats and hybrid solutions.
Held from April 22 to 26 in La Grande Motte, the International Multihull Show has reaffirmed its position as the world’s leading event dedicated exclusively to multihulls, both sail and motor. The 2026 edition brought together shipyards, designers, equipment manufacturers, and service providers from across the industry’s value chain.
Although the organization reports a slight 5% decline in total attendance, this figure is offset by a record number of international visitors. The show welcomed professionals and enthusiasts from 27 European countries, as well as key markets in the Americas, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia, reflecting the event’s increasingly global nature.
To further this trend, the organization plans to introduce a “guest country” in future editions, an initiative that will provide a deeper insight into various international marine industries.
Improvements to the visitor experience
The 2026 edition has introduced significant improvements to the visitor experience. The opening of a third marina and the redesign of the walking routes have made it easier to access both the fleet and the onshore exhibition area.
The new location of the main entrance, closer to the city center, has been particularly well received, as has the introduction of a free electric shuttle service, which has helped ensure smoother and more sustainable traffic flow within the complex.
The Rise of Multihull Boats and Technological Innovation
The show highlighted the sustained growth of the multihull segment, which has established itself as one of the most dynamic sectors in the boating industry. The Multihull Design & Innovation Area brought together naval architects, startups, and manufacturers to showcase solutions geared toward the sector’s future.
Notable is the strong presence of motor catamarans (powercats), as well as the advancement of hybrid and electric technologies, in line with growing demand for energy efficiency, range, and reduced environmental impact.
An event that covers the entire shipbuilding cycle
Beyond the boat exhibition, the International Multihull Show has proven its ability to bring together all stages of the multihull owner’s journey under one roof. From visitors new to sailing to experienced boat owners seeking refits, upgrades, or new technologies, the show serves as a comprehensive hub for the industry.
With the 2026 edition now over, the event is already gearing up for its next edition in April 2027 in La Grande Motte, with the aim of continuing to lead market developments and strengthening its role as a leading international platform.
Highlights of the exhibition in La Grande Motte
Aquila Catamarans unveiled its new 50ES Hybrid Ocean Drive sailing catamaran for the first time in Europe at this event, alongside three motorboat models: the 50 Yacht, the 46 Coupe, and the 32 Sport.
The 50ES Hybrid Ocean Drive made its European debut and was named Multihull of the Year 2026 following its unveiling at the Miami Boat Show. Available in electric or diesel versions, it stands out for maximizing space, comfort, and cruising efficiency, with a design developed in collaboration with J&J Design. It features a spacious forward cabin designed for leisure, direct access from the flybridge, and a bright salon with large panoramic windows.
Below deck, the yacht offers layouts ranging from four to six cabins, all with private bathrooms and ample storage space. The owner’s suite provides additional privacy and spaciousness. For propulsion, it combines diesel engines or a hybrid system, enabling quiet cruising and greater efficiency at anchor.
Adventure Yachts officially unveiled the AY60 at its world premiere during the La Grande-Motte Boat Show. This model marks a significant milestone for the Thailand-based shipyard, as it is its first motor catamaran.
The AY60 is a high-performance catamaran designed for long ocean crossings without compromising on comfort. Its naval architecture prioritizes sailing efficiency, featuring streamlined hulls and an optimized weight distribution that promotes high average speeds.
The interior design combines functionality with contemporary finishes, with a particular focus on natural ventilation and onboard self-sufficiency. The elevated helm station offers excellent visibility, while the deck features clearly defined areas for navigation and leisure. With this model, Adventure Yachts aims to strike a balance between performance and livability, catering to experienced sailors seeking reliability on long voyages.
Aventura Yachts: 37 Explorer and 56 MY
Aventura Catamarans unveiled two models at their world premiere that reflect the company’s dual strategy of sailing and motorboats.
The Aventura 37 Explorer stands out for its practical approach, featuring a robust design tailored for family cruising and charter operations. Its layout prioritizes outdoor space and ease of use.
The 56 MY is positioned in the premium motor catamaran segment, with a clear focus on comfort and life on board. Its expansive glass surfaces, full flybridge, and customizable interior layouts make it an ideal platform for extended cruises. Both models share a modern design and meticulous construction, reinforcing the Tunisian shipyard’s identity.
Bali Catamarans and its main new release for the 2026 season, the Bali 5.8, were featured at the latest edition of the International Multihull Show. At nearly 18 meters in length, the French shipyard’s new flagship stands out for its spacious interior and a layout designed to maximize onboard comfort. It maintains the brand’s signature “Open Space” concept, integrating the salon, galley, and cockpit into a single, fluid space. It features spacious lounge areas, a functional flybridge, and various interior layouts suited for both private use and charter, reinforcing its position as a benchmark in the premium segment.
Lagoon. The Beneteau Group brand took a significant step forward in its lineup with the world premiere of the Lagoon 43, a model nominated for the European Yacht of the Year and Boat of the Year – Cruising World 2025 awards, which takes the baton from the successful 42 and redefines the concept of life on board at this length. Designed by VPLP Design in collaboration with Patrick le Quément for the exterior and Nauta Design for the interiors, the project focuses on greater spatial continuity and a more fluid relationship with the surroundings.
The most significant new feature is its modular design, which allows the cockpit and saloon to be integrated into a single open space that can be adapted to suit different needs. Movement around the boat has been optimized with more direct side access points and an ergonomic layout designed to make life easier both at anchor and while underway.
In line with the brand’s evolution, the Lagoon 43 incorporates features designed for comfort and efficiency, including increased natural light, cross-ventilation, and energy options that enhance autonomy. The result is a catamaran that retains the range’s DNA while offering a more contemporary and flexible take on family cruising.
Excess Catamarans, a brand of the Beneteau Group, unveiled the Excess 11 Hybrid—not an entirely new model, but a significant evolution within the group’s sportier range. Designed by VPLP Design, this model retains its agile and lightweight character, featuring twin rudders at the stern and a layout that prioritizes the sailing experience.
The main focus at the show was on its hybrid propulsion system, which combines electric motors with onboard power generation, reducing fuel consumption and environmental impact. This solution enables quiet maneuvering in port and efficient cruising in favorable conditions, aligning with the growing demand for sustainability in the industry. Without altering the essence of the model, the Excess 11 Hybrid reinforces its positioning as an accessible option among fast cruising catamarans, balancing performance, simplicity, and a more direct sailing experience than that of other brands in the group.
Fountaine Pajot focused its presence at the Multihull Boat Show on its new generation of models, with the New 41 as one of the highlights of the exhibition. This 40-foot catamaran marks a turning point in the range, with a design philosophy aimed at offering “more for the same price”: increased living space, optimized ergonomics, and a clear commitment to eco-sailing. Among its standout features are improved onboard circulation, a more integrated cockpit, and the incorporation of energy solutions such as solar panels and hybrid options that enhance range.
Alongside the New 41, the brand presented a fleet consistent with its positioning in the mid-to-large-sized comfortable cruiser segment. The lineup included the FP 44—a logical continuation of this new generation—as well as the established Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 and Fountaine Pajot Samana 59, models that reinforce the shipyard’s commitment to spacious interiors, natural light, and a long-range lifestyle onboard.Overall, Fountaine Pajot showcased a range in the midst of transition, where innovation is not concentrated in a single model but rather in the progressive evolution of its entire lineup.
Outremer Catamarans. The Outremer 48 continues the French shipyard’s tradition of building high-performance ocean-going catamarans. Its design prioritizes lightness, safety, and efficiency over long distances, with hulls optimized for high-speed sailing.
The interior maintains a functional design, with layouts tailored to long-distance sailors. The sheltered cockpit and helm station provide total control in challenging conditions. This model is clearly designed for sailors seeking autonomy and true performance in ocean cruising.
Rapido Trimarans and its Rapido 40 Racer take the concept of high-performance trimarans to a new level, with a design focused on speed and competition. Its lightweight structure and optimized hull system allow it to reach impressive speeds even in moderate winds.
The design incorporates innovative solutions in ergonomics and control, making it easy to handle with a small crew. Despite its sporty nature, it offers a basic level of comfort for short voyages. It is clearly designed for regatta sailors and enthusiasts of fast sailing.
Simbad Yachts is a new Spanish shipyard, and the Simbad 55 is a model that combines contemporary design with a practical approach. It is a catamaran designed to offer comfort for recreational cruising, with a particular focus on the layout of the outdoor spaces.
The spacious cockpit and open-plan saloon create a sense of continuity that is highly valued in this segment. The interior features modern materials and flexible layouts. This model reflects the growing prominence of new players in the European multihull market.
Leopard Catamarans showcased a complete lineup that included both sail and motor models. The Leopard 52, which was named Multihull of the Year 2026 in the 45- to 55-foot sailing category at this year’s show, maintains its position as a comfortable cruising catamaran, featuring innovations in access and ventilation.
The event also served as an opportunity to unveil the new “Refresh” 2026 version of the 53 PC, which reinforces the shipyard’s commitment to powercats, offering greater range and fuel efficiency. This version features an upgraded flybridge, new interior finishes, and advanced technological solutions.
The Sunsail 465, on the other hand, is clearly designed for charter use, with configurations optimized for heavy use and easy maintenance. Overall, the brand demonstrates its ability to adapt to different market segments.
Earthling E Propulsion made its debut as an exhibitor at the La Grande-Motte Boat Show with the new Earthling E40, a key step in its European expansion. Although the prototype had already been tested in New Zealand, the first units for the international market are scheduled for 2026.
Designed by John McGettigan, it features twin Molabo electric motors and 45 kWh lithium batteries, supplemented by solar panels and low-power generators. The design is based on “sailing without sails,” offering a quiet and efficient experience for coastal cruising and voyages at 8–10 knots.
Awarded at the 2026 Barcelona Electric Marine Show, the E40 stands out for its sustainable approach, combining modern design, energy efficiency, and low environmental impact, in line with the electrification of the marine industry.
ORC, Ocean Rider Catamarans, showcased the ORC 57 ADV, a new version of the ORC TS57 unveiled in 2022. The ORC 57 ADV is a luxury catamaran designed for long-distance cruising, where comfort and range are top priorities. Its design features spacious interiors, high-quality materials, and advanced technological solutions.
The deck features multiple relaxation areas and a fully equipped flybridge. It is designed for owners whose sailing plans include extended stays on board without compromising on performance or safety.
Trimarine Composites unveiled the TRM 43, a fast cruising multihull designed for long-range sailing, in a world premiere. Designed by Christophe Barreau and Frédéric Neuman, this model is clearly aimed at experienced sailors who prioritize performance, range, and reliability on ocean crossings.
True to the Portuguese shipyard’s philosophy, the TRM 43 stands out for its specially optimized composite construction, developed at its facilities near Lisbon. The result is a very low displacement of just 5,600 kg, significantly lower than that of other models of its length. This lightness translates into a remarkable ability to sail in very light winds, starting at just 2 or 3 knots, reinforcing its efficient nature and its suitability for long-distance cruising.
The boat is designed for functional simplicity and self-sufficiency. Its power system, which relies on solar panels and lithium batteries, reduces dependence on the engine and promotes more sustainable sailing.
