Plenty of exhibitors from around the globe, numerous exciting debuts, a huge influx of international visitors, and, of course, a massive amount of space for boaters seeking more comfort on board: once again, the 2026 International Multihull Show—held from April 22 to 26—showcased the very best of the industry, displaying an impressive 82 multihulls. There are few opportunities to see such a wide variety of catamarans and trimarans in a single location.
The high number of models on display reflects the growing importance of multihulls in the global marine industry, a trend that mirrors the increasing significance of this annual event in La Grande-Motte.
Multihull Debuts at the 2026 International Multihull Show
The prestige of this French Atlantic coast showcase, dedicated entirely to multihulls, is beyond question. It’s no surprise, then, that the latest edition saw an increase in both shipyards and international visitors. Nor is it a shock to see such a high number of debuts in La Grande-Motte; the 2026 International Multihull Show hosted the public premieres of 11 models:
- Adventure Yachts: AY60 – Thailand
- Aquila Power Catamarans: 50ES – China
- Aventura Yachts: 37 Explorer, 56 MY – Tunisia
- Earthling Limited: E 40 – Australia
- Leopard Catamarans: 52, 53 PC, Sunsail 465 – South Africa
- ORC: ORC 57 – France
- Outremer Catamarans: 48 – France
- McConaghy Boats: MC75 Jack – China
- Rapido Trimarans: 40R – Vietnam
- Simbad Yachts: 55 – Spain
- Trimarine Composites: TRM 43 – Portugal
Visitors to the La Grande-Motte Boat Show: An Increasingly Global Event
Now that the curtain has fallen on the French multihull show, organizers have had a chance to look at the numbers. While this latest edition saw a slight dip in overall attendance—a 5% decrease—the 2026 International Multihull Show set a new record for international visitors. In addition to attendees from 27 European countries, guests were recorded from North and South America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia.
Following this surge in international interest, organizers in La Grande-Motte are considering a new approach for future editions: dedicating each year to a specific country to provide an in-depth look at different emerging markets.
What’s New at the 2026 International Multihull Show
As Anaïs David, Director of the International Multihull Show, explained: “The event continues to evolve alongside the market.” She added that, because of this synergy, “exhibitors are reporting promising negotiations, while visitors appreciated the quality and variety of both the vessels and the exhibitors on hand.”
The 2026 show introduced several updates, starting with a new entrance to the exhibition village located closer to the city center. However, the most compelling innovations were found among the models on display. There was a clear growth in power catamarans alongside traditional sailing models. Furthermore, reflecting the industry’s overall progress, there was a significantly larger presence of electric and hybrid propulsion systems, signaling a growing commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Looking Toward the 2027 Edition with Renewed Enthusiasm
Given the clear momentum energizing the multihull sector, the increasingly international audience, and the enviable mix of visitors—ranging from experienced owners looking for new hulls or refit ideas to boaters dreaming of their first catamaran—the momentum is undeniable. Combined with the global attention the event receives from shipyards worldwide, wheels are already in motion for the 2027 International Multihull Show. The goal is to once again wow the public next April in La Grande-Motte.