International Multihull Show attracts 14,000 visitors

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This year’s International Multihull Show on the south coast of France attracted 14,000 visitors over five days, with 70 sailing and power catamarans and trimarans on display at La Grande Motte, according to organisers.

“The unlimited enthusiasm that was clearly visible has confirmed the thriving nature of the sector,” stated show organiser M2Organisation, which shared feedback from exhibitors that sales were “still “very satisfactory, but far removed from the record figures from 2022”.

Other feedback included the fact that delivery times have become much more reasonable, after reaching a peak of two or even three years.

“We have to meet the requirements of the demand from clients, which remains strong, while also satisfying their needs in terms of performance, comfort and their awareness of the importance of sailing showing respect for the environment,” stated one exhibitor.

The show displayed the industry’s increasing emphasis on clean, eco-friendly cruising, with a lot of new products for innovative propulsion systems and energy solutions, and bio-sourced materials, while the Exhibitors’ Village featured more equipment manufacturers and suppliers.

Leopard, which builds in South Africa, showed all six of its catamarans including the European debut of its 40 Powercat (click for article), following the model’s world premiere at February’s Miami International Boat Show. Leopard also exhibited its 46 and 53 Powercats, and 42, 45 and 50 sailing cats, while charter company Sunsail showed a Sunsail 454, a four-cabin Leopard 45.

Bali had the largest display of sailing catamarans with six models including the world premiere of the entry-level Catsmart (38ft), along with the Catspace (40ft), 4.2, 4.4, 4.6 and flagship 5.4. Dream Yacht Charter displayed a Bali 4.8.

Lagoon showed four sailing catamarans led by its Sixty 5, along with a 42, 46 and the new 51, which had its world premiere at last year’s International Multihull Show. Sister brand Excess showcased its 11 and new 14, which debuted at last September’s Cannes Yachting Festival, while Four Winns, also part of Groupe Beneteau, unveiled its TH36 power catamaran.

Fountaine Pajot displayed its Power 67, its flagship motor yacht, along with its MY4.S sedan cruiser. The La Rochelle builder’s sailing models comprised the Isla 40, Astrea 42 and new Aura 51, which debuted in 2022 and pioneered the brand’s new focus on sustainability and renewable energy.

Other brands showing catamarans included Aventura, Catana, C-Catamarans, Dragonfly, HH Catamarans, Marsaudon Composites, Moon, Nautitech, Neocean, Outremer, Privilege and Windelo, while trimaran builders included Libertist, Neel and Rapido.

The 15^th International Multihull Show will be held from April 3-7, 2024.

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