At the outset, the idea of the organizers of the “Salon International du Multicoque”, which became the International Multihull Show a little over three years ago, was to alternate between the French Atlantic coast - where the world’s two largest boat builders, Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot, are based - and the Mediterranean coast, where there is also a concentration of shipyards including Catana/Bali and Outremer/Gunboat. In the end, by attracting a clientele that has become truly international, the South of France has won out for good. So it’s in La Grande-Motte, only six miles from Montpellier airport, that everything is happening. The chances of enjoying five dry and sunny days in late April are better on the Languedoc shores, compared to the Brittany weather – and all the better, because the 15,000 visitors expected to attend will be spending most of their time outside. Make no mistake, the IMS is an outdoor show, with multihulls afloat! Many of them have already been reserved by our team for their first test sails.
Multihulls World will of course have its own stand, where we will be waiting for you to chat about sailing we’ve done, and share our experiences, and of course to present you our news - social media, videos etc. Multihulls World, a long-standing partner of the show, will be awarding the Multihull of the Year prizes on April 12, day two of the show. For the winning multihulls that are present at the show, victory will be clearly visible on their guardwires or on their hulls!
IMS practical
Open to the public from 10 am to 7 pm, except on the Sunday (closing at 6 pm)
Location: La Grande-Motte, 20 km (12 mi) from Montpellier (South of France)
Access: Montpellier International Airport - Montpellier train station
Price: 10 euros a day or 30 euros for a 5-day pass - Free for children under 16 and students
Accommodation: www.lagrandemotte.com
New for 2023: Making their premieres at La Grande-Motte
LIBERTIST 853 L: The same (at last) but folding?
WORLD PREMIERE
This trimaran is not really a new model, given that we first saw it at La Grande-Motte in 2019... But that example had fixed arms, giving it a beam just over 23 feet (7.1 m). It’s difficult to find a marina slip or transport such a size on the road. The Rega YACHT shipyard has therefore developed a new version of its 853 with folding arms, in the same style as the Libertist 703 that we discovered in September 2021 at the La Rochelle Boat Show. Both models are scheduled to be at La Grande-Motte, where we hope to discover the famous folding version of the 853 promised a year ago!
Architect: Erik Lerouge
Material: Glass/epoxy foam sandwich (infusion), carbon arms
Length: 28’ (8.53 m)
Beam: 8’5”/23’4” (2.55/7.1 m)
Draft: 18”/6’5” (0.45/1.95 m)
Unladen displacement: 3,090 lbs (1,400 kg)
Height and surface area of rotating mast: 44’7”/43 sq ft (13.6 m/4 m2)
Mainsail: 43 sq ft (40 m2)
Jib: 205 sq ft (19 m2)
Spi: 840 sq ft (78 m2)
Motor: 6 kW outboard
www.libertist.eu
FOUR WINNS TH36: A powercat getting in among the monohulls!
PREMIERE AT THE IMS
The Four Winns brand, based in Cadillac, Michigan, USA, have been preparing a very attractive powercat. We note the hull signed by Marc Lombard, the design by the Garroni Design studio (bravo for the elegantly suspended hard-top) and the outboard drivetrain featuring twin 300 or 350 HP motors: the TH36 looks like it’s going to be sporty! But the deck is also perfect for relaxation, with modular sunbathing areas, an outdoor galley, as well as two double cabins. It seems that the Bénéteau Group wanted to make an impression in the multihull sector as it’s their second brand, after PRESTIGE, to be getting into the power catamaran market.
Architect: Marc Lombard Design
Overall length: 38’5“ (11.71 m)
Hull length: 37’5“ / (11.42 m)
Beam: 14’7“ (4.47 m)
Draft: 3’2» (0.98 m)
Air draft: 13’10“ (4.24 m)
Displacement: 15,955 lbs (7,237 kg)
Fuel: 2 x 122 US gal (2 x 465 l)
Water: 2 x 25 US gal (2 x 95 l)
Motors: 2 x 300/350 HP outboards
CE capacity: B8/C12
www.fourwinns.com
AVENTURA 37DC: Dedicated to day charter
PREMIERE AT THE IMS
A variation of the standard Aventura 37 also expected at La Grande Motte (see our test in MW181), the 37 Day Cruiser is able to accommodate 20 to 28 passengers. The aft cockpit of the cruiser version, the helm station placed high up and the coachroof/sunbathing area are much the same, but the saloon/galley and the windows of the nacelle have been replaced by bench seats and a vast flush-decked forward cockpit. In the hulls, it will be possible to integrate a full galley, with 9.2 cu ft (260 l) refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, microwave, worktop etc. It will also be possible to be fitted out with cabins for guests or crew, opening up other programs than exclusive day trips. As for the drivetrain, this first example retains traditional internal combustion motors, but an electric installation is also being designed. The builder will also be displaying their 50 Power.
Naval architecture and design: Samer Lasta
Length overall: 35’9” (10.90 m)
Beam: 19’6” (5.94 m) - Draft: 4’ (1.20 m)
Displacement: 15,400 lbs (7 t)
Sail area: 1,010 sq ft (94 m²)
Fuel: 2 x 66 US gal (2 x 250 l)
Water: 2 x 66 US gal (2 x 250 l)
Motors: 2 X 20/30 HP Yanmar or 2 X 10 kW
www.aventura-catamarans.com
BALI CATSMART: 2, 3 or 4 cabins for smallest in the Bali range
WORLD PREMIERE
The world’s #3 multihull builder is again adding to its range… but this time from below, with the announcement of a new 38-foot model. A little sistership for the Bali Catspace, though this catamaran features some new innovations, such as twin helm stations, an optimized sail area with the mainsail almost flush with the coachroof – since there’s no flybridge. On the other hand, you still get the rigid foredeck and the tilting Bali door. As for the interior, it’s no longer just all-charter: the builder does offer the traditional four- and three-cabin versions, but notably, there’s an amazing version with just two owner’s cabins. The Bali Catsmart demonstrates (finally!) the interest of compact multihulls, that are less expensive and easier to maintain than much larger models. The Catsmart joins the ranks of the C-Cat 37, the Excess 11 and the Aventura 37 (three models expected at the show). Bali will have all their sailboat models on show at La Grande Motte except the 4.8 – a model opportunely being displayed by Dream Yacht Worldwide. Despite this, none of the models in the Power range are planned at the show.
Architect: Xavier Faÿ
Length: 38’8” (11.78 m)
Waterline length: 37’2” (11.32 m)
Beam: 21’2” (6.46 m)
Draft: 3’7” (1.1 m)
Displacement: 18,500 lbs (8.4 t)
Motors: 2 x 20/30 HP
Fuel: 105 US gal (400 l)
Water: 175 US gal (660 l)
Price: € 317,380 ex-tax
www.bali-catamarans.com
NAUTITECH 40 OPEN MK3: A new look for the 40 before... the 48!
The Rochefort-based manufacturers have confirmed that their new Nautitech 48 will be launched this coming October, with a world premiere planned for the Miami International Boat Show in February 2024. In the meantime, a third version of the 40 Open, the smallest model in the range, will be unveiled. The Nautitech 44 Open will also be alongside at La Grande Motte.
LEOPARD 40 PC: A third powercat in the Leopard range
EUROPEAN PREMIERE
Following the launch of two large models - the 53 and 46 PC - and the retirement of the very successful 43 PC, it came as no surprise to discover a new compact model from Robertson & Caine, the 40 PC. In terms of design, this powercat blends perfectly into the new range with very long hull windows and an immense flybridge. It features an imposing panoramic coachroof with a beautiful L-shaped galley and, despite being shorter in length, manages to house great cabins all equipped with island beds and bathrooms. But the real plus compared to the 43 PC? Aboard this model, there’s a proper interior helm station.
Builder: Robertson & Caine
Length: 40’ (12.19 m)
Waterline length: 39’7” (12.07 m)
Beam: 21’8” (6.61 m)
Draft: 3’5” (1.04 m)
Displacement: 28,819 lbs (13.07 t)
Water: 170 US gal (640 l)
Fuel: 370 US gal (1,400 l)
Motors: 2 x 250/320/370 HP
Cruising speed: 17 knots
Max speed: over 20 knots
www.leopardcatamarans.com
EXCESS 14: Retaining the pleasure of sailing
PREMIERE AT THE IMS
Following on from the Excess 11, the new Excess 14 validates the brand’s principle of total autonomy: no elements coming from Lagoon are used here. The emphasis has been placed on the pleasure of helming, with asymmetrical hulls, deeper appendages and a sail plan potentially boosted by a boom that’s almost flush with the bimini and large downwind sails secured to long bowsprit. Compared to the Excess 11, note the return of an overlapping genoa and a pivoting helm seat that is more functional (it is integrated into the mini-bimini) than the old folding seats. The colors and materials are also a little more neutral than the flashier ambiance seen aboard the Excess 12 and 15.
Naval architect: VPLP
Interior design: Nauta Design
Hull length: 43’9” (13.34 m)
Beam: 25’9” (7.87 m)
Light displacement: 28,220 lbs (12.8 t)
Sail area: 1,324/1,453 sq ft (123/135 m²)
Code 0: 775/925 sq ft (72/86 m²)
Motors: 2 x 45/57 HP
Fuel: 2 x 53 US gal (2 x 200 l)
Water: 79/158 US gal (300/600 l)
Price: € 495,000 ex-tax
www.excess-catamarans.com
OUTREMER 52: Long-haul cruising
WORLD PREMIERE
For their new 52, the shipyard was keen to work with naval architects VPLP, along with the big names in French design (Patrick Le Quément, Darnet Design, Saguez & Partners), and also with the expertise of the Gunboat shipyard (also a member of the Grand Large Yachting Group), making it possible to reduce the weight of the structure while retaining its ultimate strength. This has allowed for increased glass surfaces and openings in the catamaran. With the aim of easier control of the Outremer 52, sail handling and trimming maneuvers are led back to the cockpit. Like the Outremer 55, the wheel, positioned on the starboard side, guarantees perfect control of the multihull with exceptional visibility of the sailplan. It can also be placed in a low position in the cockpit to ensure protection from the sun or from bad weather - the helmsman is then sheltered by the rigid bimini. The two tillers remain a feature at the after end of the hulls. Inside, there’s to be a neat forward-facing bench seat, four openings at the front of the saloon and an XXL-sized bay window that opens onto the cockpit. The Outremer 52 is available in three finishes - Life, Nomad and Sportline. The builder will also have their 45 and their 55 on show.
Naval Architects: VPLP
Waterline length: 51.6 ft (15.73 m)
Beam: 25.9 ft (7.89 m)
Draft: 3.5 ft/ 6.7 ft (1.07/2.30 m)
Air draft: 75.5 ft (23.05 m)
Light displacement: 27,550 lbs (12.5 t)
Mainsail: 1,023 sq ft (95 m²)
Genoa: 646 sq ft (60 m²)
Self-tacking solent: 484 sq ft (45 m²)
Gennaker: 1,507 sq ft (140 m²)
Spinnaker: 2,271 sq ft (211 m²)
CE certificate: 8/26 persons
Motors: 2 x 50 HP
www.catamaran-outremer.com
SQUALT CK70: A go-anywhere aluminum cruiser
PREMIERE AT THE IMS
Claude Kermoal is well known in the boating world – in both the leisure and the service sectors. The builder, now based in Bizerte in Tunisia, has managed to present a catamaran perfectly suited to long distance sailingv in extreme latitudes thanks to its robust aluminum construction. You could easily envisage living on board such a craft or even using it as a base for a scientific expedition. Contrary to many preconceived ideas, aluminum gives a guarantee of excellent weight estimates in these large sizes: at 38 tons on the scales for 69 feet (21 m) of hull, it is almost identical to the characteristics of the Alegria 67, for example. Inside, there’s a very careful standard of finish, and it features plentiful equipment that includes all conceivable options. The construction material obviously allows the catamaran to be customized to a great extent.
Design: Claude Kermoal
Material: 5083 H 111 aluminum
Hull length: 69’3” (21.1 m)
Beam: 33’10” (10.32 m)
Draft: 4’11” (1.5 m)
Mast length: 85’4” (26 m)
Displacement: 83,800 lbs (38 t)
Mainsail: 1,290 sq ft (120 m²)
Genoa: 1,400 sq ft (130 m²)
Engines: 2 x 140 HP
Fuel: 2 x 845 US gal (2 x 3,200 l)
Water: 2 x 475 US gal (2 x 1,800 l)
squaltmarine@gmail.com
Heading ashore The Multihulls World booth
Like every year, everyone on the Multihulls World team will be at our booth for the show - come along and meet us! And right next door, the organizers have set up more exhibition space ashore, where you’ll be able to meet many specialists who can help you design, buy, equip, refit or insure your multihull. The now traditional “design area” has become an exceptionally rich discussion spot. Here, you can meet not only the most renowned naval architects, but also the young start-ups you’ll need to keep an eye on!
Another essential section is the equipment area. This is the place where you’ll be able to find everything you need for your multihull or her crew, from electronics to safety, including rigging or sails... And as the International Multihull Show is above all a practical show, organized by sailors who are passionate about multihulls, you’ll also find professionals in financing and insurance on site.
All the multihulls at the IMS
Sail
Aventura Catamarans
Aventura 37
Aventura 37DC
Bali Catamarans
Bali Catsmart
Bali Catspace
Bali 4.2
Bali 4.4
Bali 4.6
Bali 5.4
Catana Catamarans
Catana Ocean Class
C-Catamarans
C-CAT 37
C-CAT 48
Dream Yacht Worldwide
Bali 4.8
Excess
Excess 11
Excess 14
Fountaine Pajot
Isla 40
Tanna 47
Aura 51
HH Catamarans
HH50-OC
Lagoon
Lagoon 42
Lagoon 46
Lagoon 51
Lagoon SIXTY 5
Leopard Catamarans
Leopard 42
Leopard 45
Leopard 50
Libertist Yachts
Libertist 703
Libertist 853
Marsaudon Composites
ORC 42
ORC 50
ORC 57
MYS Catamarans
Dufour Catamaran 48
Nautitech Catamarans
Nautitech 40 Open MK3
Nautitech 44 Open
Navigare Yachting
Lagoon 42
Neel Trimarans
NEEL 43
NEEL 47
Outremer Yachting
Outremer 45
Outremer 52
Outremer 55
Privilège
Privilège Signature 510
Quorning Boats (Dragonfly by HelloMulti)
Dragonfly 28
Dragonfly 40
Squalt Marine International
CK 70
Sunreef Yachts
Sunreef 60
Sunsail
Sunsail 454
Windelo Catamaran
Windelo 54
Power
Aventura Catamarans
Aventura 50 MY
Fountaine Pajot
MY6
POWER 67
Four Winns
TH36
Leopard Catamarans
Leopard 40 PC
Leopard 46 PC
Leopard 53 PC
Moon Yachts
Moon 60 Power (to be confirmed)
