For 12 years now, this boat show, inaugurated in Lorient on France’s Atlantic coast, has been the most important meeting place for multihulls in the nautical calendar. First of all, because it is unique: with more than 60 catamarans and trimarans expected this year, this show is the only opportunity in the world to discover both new boats (with more than 10 making their World, European or French premieres) and the majority of the ranges of the main multihull manufacturers. An event that has remained on a human scale – the availability of the builders, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with easy access thanks to a footbridge joining the show area with the eastern part of the port, and there’s plenty of parking space.
At the outset, the idea of the organizers of the “Salon International du Multicoque”, which became the International Multihull Show a little over two 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…

The International Multihull Show will be opening its doors on the western side of the port (between the beach and the technical area) at La Grande-Motte in the South of France, from April 20 to 24. 

Fred Morvan and Philippe Michel were the founders of the Multihull Show, which became the IMS in 2020. The first edition was held in 2010 in Lorient and then in 2011 in La Grande- Motte, a city that has hosted every edition since. 

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 longstanding partner of the show, will be awarding the Multihull of the Year prizes on April 20, the opening day 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, I promise!

Heading ashore
The Multihulls World booth

Like every year, everyone on 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 an additional 3,000 sq ft of exhibition space, 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.

IMS practical

Dates: from Wednesday 20 to Sunday 24 April 2022
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
Rates: € 10 a day or € 30 for a 5-day pass - Free for children under 16 and students
Accommodation: www.lagrandemotte.com

NEW FOR 2022: 
Making their premieres at La Grande-Motte

On the program of the IMS 2022, a number of catamarans and trimarans exhibited for the first time in the world, while others will be there in preview, or making their premieres afloat or their European premieres... From the smallest to the largest, here are the new models that you shouldn’t miss!

Libertist 853 L
The same but folding

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.

Dragonfly 40
28 feet wide at sea, 13 feet in port...

FRENCH PREMIERE
Multihull of the Year 2021 Winner
Test in MW173

This folding trimaran produced in Denmark isn’t new to everyone as it was presented for the very first time at boot Düsseldorf in, January 2020. The Dragonfly 40 has become the flagship of the Dragonfly fleet - the last model in this size was the 12 M, whose production stopped several years ago. The program assumed by Jens Quorning, its architect-builder, is offshore cruising - with the emphasis on ease of handling, high average speeds and optimized size for berthing or storage ashore anywhere in the world thanks to a width contained to 13 feet (4 m) when the trimaran is folded. Note that there are two steering wheels. During our test in Skærbæk, we appreciated the performance of the 40, but also its comfort and the extremely meticulous finish.

Builder: Quorning Boats - Length: 40’8” (12.40 m) - Beam: 13’1” / 27’7” (4.00/8.40 m) - Draft: 2’4”/7’3” (0.70/2.20 m) - Light displacement: 12,790 lbs (5.8 t) - Mainsail: 700/805 sq ft (65/75 m2) - Genoa: 355/410 sq ft (33/38 m2) - Spinnaker: 1,185/1,505 sq ft (110/140 m2) - Berths: 6-8 - Fuel: 40 US gal (150 l) - Water: 58 US gal (220 l) - Engine: 40/57 HP - Price: € 607,000 ex-tax - www.dragonfly.dk 

Nautitech 44 Open
Elegant, fast and habitable

EUROPEAN PREMIERE
Test in MW183

The brand new Nautitech 44 Open #1 was presented as a world preview at the Miami International Boat Show - where we were able to try it out. At this show, we’ve got hull #2! This model was eagerly awaited because the builder hadn’t launched a “proper” new model for some time. The result is an undeniably successful catamaran – so much so that it deserved to be on the cover of this issue! Already the author of the 40 and 46 Open, naval architect Marc Lombard was asked to design this 44. And you can clearly see the manufacturer’s DNA – a short nacelle, open saloon/cockpit concept, twin helm stations set out on the hulls (these now being protected by a small bimini, as on board the Excess range). For the interior, design was entrusted to Christophe Chedal-Anglay - who previously worked for Gunboat. There’s a huge, forward-facing chart table and the option of a smart room, a laundry room/workshop that will be appreciated by those going cruising long-term.

Builder: Nautitech Catamarans - Overall length: 43’8” (13.30 m) - Beam: 24’2” (7.36 m) - Draft: 4’9” (1.45 m) - Displacement: 23,590 lbs (10.7 t) - Sail area: 1,142 sq ft (106.1 m2) - Engines: 2 x 30 HP - Fuel: 2 x 66 US gal (2 x 250 l) - Water: 2 x 79 US gal (2 x 300 l) - CE Certification: A10/B10/C22/D22 - Price: € 539,280 ex-tax - www.nautitechcatamarans.com 

Bali 4.4
Open to the exterior - and to all programs

WORLD PREMIERE
Test in MW183

The latest Bali, the 4.4, is a double whammy, replacing both the 4.3 and the older 4.5. In the current range, it sits between the 4.2 and the 4.6. This new model logically features all the successful innovations specific to the brand: rigid foredeck, opening windows, tilting saloon/ cockpit door and fixed aft platform to optimize the available deck area of 946 square feet (87.9 m²). The 4.4 also adopts a forward door and a flybridge with a significantly lowered helm station. Inside, 3 or 4 cabins, a large L-shaped galley and a saloon that can accommodate ten people.

Builder: Bali Catamarans - Overall length: 45’1” (13.75 m) - Beam: 24.3’ (7.40 m) - Draft: 3.9’ (1.20 m) - Light displacement: 28,200 lbs (12.8 t) - Mainsail: 818 sq ft (76 m2) - Code 0: 797 sq ft (74 m2) - Solent: 452 sq ft (42 m2) - Fuel: 211 US Gal (800 l) - Water: 211 US Gal (800 l) - Engines: 2 x 40/57 HP CE - Category: A - Price: € 516,770 ex-tax - www.bali-catamarans.com 

Balance 482
One steering wheel with two helm positions

EUROPEAN PREMIERE 
Multihull of the Year 2022 Nominee 
Test in MW182

The first example of the Balance 482 was launched last summer in Cape Town, South Africa. This new model was presented to the public for the first time in October in Annapolis, USA, where we got the chance to test it. The 482, designed by Phillip Berman and Anton Du Toit is proving to be quick in all conditions, including upwind thanks to the daggerboards. The inverted bows lend the boat’s silhouette a very sporty look. The hulls and nacelle have plenty of windows, however the shipyard has decided to go for a coachroof with an overhang to protect the living area from the sun’s most vertical rays. The Versa-Helm system (a double helm thanks to an articulated steering wheel), which was already fitted to the 526 has obviously been included.

Builder: Balance Catamarans - Architects: Phillip Berman / Anton Du Toit - Overall length: 48’3” (14.71 m) - Waterline length: 48’3” (14.71 m) - Beam: 25’11” (7.9 m) - Draft: 3’10”/7’3” (1.16/2.20 m) - Light displacement: 24,945 lbs (11.32 t) - Upwind sail area: 1,433 sq ft (133.1 m2) - Engines: 2 x 45 HP - Fuel: 2 x 106 US gal (2 x 400 l) - Water: 2 x 103 US gal (2 x 390 l) - Price: US$ 1,157,310 - www.balancecatamarans.com 

C-Cat 48 
Italian class... complete with daggerboard

WORLD PREMIERE
Test in MW182

This offshore catamaran that we discovered at Ostia, not far from Rome, is as comfortable as it is fast and fun to sail. The announced light displacement, just under 10 tons, promises some beautiful sailing indeed! The design of the coachroof is as simple as it is successful - it integrates a forward hatch just behind the mast. The hulls are narrow, with straight bows, and the boat is equipped with daggerboards. This new model, along with the Balance 482 above, sits in a sector of the market that’s relatively close to Outremer and Catana, though a little more sedate than an ORC – the emphasis is on performance, but comfort has not been ignored.

Builder: C-Catamarans - Length: 48’7” (14.80 m) - Beam: 24’5” (7.45 m) - Light displacement: 21,400 lbs (9.7 t) - Draft: 22”/7’3” (0.57/2.2 m) - Air draft: 55’7” (16.94 m) - Mainsail: 969 sq ft (90 m2) - Genoa: 527/570 sq ft (49/53m2) - Gennaker: 969 sq ft (90 m2) - Engines: 2 x 35 HP Fuel: 2 x 37 US gal (2 x 140 l) - Water: 79 US gal (300 l) - Price: € 656,000 ex-tax - www.c-catamarans.com 

Catana Ocean Class
The cruising boat wh've been waiting for!

WORLD PREMIERE

You could be forgiven for wondering if the incredible success of the Bali range hadn’t let the Catana brand off watch for a few years – there was only the 53 in the catalog... But that’s old news, with this brand-new Ocean Class which could well inaugurate a complete range. Inverted, fine-entry bows; controlled weight thanks to a stratification process in carbon-reinforced infusion and a reduced footprint of the nacelle; a powerful rig and deep daggerboards: this model is indeed a Catana! Performance addicts will be able to choose a carbon mast. For the deck, the builder has opted for a central helm station. The Ocean Class benefits from a bulkhead-free nacelle with three large sliding bay windows with integral reinforcement for enjoying a vast living space, either totally protected or fully open to the outside.

Builder: Catana Catamarans - Architect: Catana Catamarans - Hull length: 49’2” (14.99 m) - Waterline length: 49’1” (14.96 m) - Beam: 25’8” (7.83 m) - Displacement: 28,000 lbs (12.7t) - Draft: 3’10”/ 8’2” (1.17 m/2.49 m) - Mainsail: 970 sq ft (90 m2) - Genoa: 690 sq ft (64 m2) - Gennaker: 1,400 sq ft (130 m2) - Engines: 2 x 45 or 57 HP - Fuel: 211 US gal (800 l) - Water: 211 US gal (800 l) - www.catana.com 

Slyder 49
It's going electric !

While not totally unheard of, this catamaran is a success… Elegant on the water, as in the interior style and well built (carbon/vinylester/foam composite), fast and easy to handle, the Slyder is not lacking in quality. Two 22 kW motors, a 25 kW generator and a global energy management system make the new Slyder 49 E-Power a very innovative catamaran indeed... 

Lagoon 51
The genoa makes a comeback!

WORLD PREMIERE

The first images released raised doubts about the position of the mast aboard the new Lagoon 51. Bruno Belmont, who heads up their product development, confirmed that the new Lagoon generation will be abandoning the idea of the aft-set rig and the self-tacking jib. This choice is far from an obvious one: in terms of outright performance, the “old” configuration is better. But when it comes to propelling a relatively heavy catamaran in cruising mode, this translates into a very tall rig, XXL-dimensioned coachroof reinforcement, and a jib that is a challenge to trim properly... The Lagoon 51, despite the mast being 4¼ feet (1.3 m) shorter, will have a sail area that is barely any smaller compared to that of the 50 - whose hulls and part of the deck layout it assumes. Also, the new model will come in at almost a ton less in displacement. The flybridge of the 51 becomes a real living area, featuring reversible helm rests. Numerous solar panels are in evidence, and these are custom cut to reconcile aesthetics and efficiency (3,400 Wp). The hulls have been lengthened to offer wide sugarscoops, that can be extended by the hydraulic platform. Access from the dock is now much easier. Inside, the disappearance of the Lagoon 50’s imposing mast support strut benefits the new nacelle, which is finished in Alpi sand oak. Customer feedback on the 50 (of which 300 units have been built and sold!) has allowed Lagoon to rework 70 points, such as the holding tanks, which are now gravitational (and not under the floors). The standard layout retains one owner’s cabin, to starboard, and three guest cabins to port - other layouts are available. We also notice that the price offer is simpler and clearer, with 80 HP motors proposed as standard. Lagoon is also strengthening its CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) processes with upholstery made from 100% recycled materials and hulls constructed using hemp fiber and partly biosourced resin.

Builder: Lagoon - Architects: VPLP design - Interior design: Nauta Design - Overall length: 50’4” (15.35 m) - Beam: 26’7” (8.10 m) - Air draft: 77’2” (23.53 m) - Draft: 4’6” (1.38 m) - Light displacement: 43,910 lbs (19.9 t) - Mainsail: 1,044/1,076 sq ft (97/100 m2) - Genoa: 570 sq ft (53 m2) - Code 0: 1,087 sq ft (101 m2) - Water: 219 US gal (830 l) - Fuel: 2 x 137 US gal (2 x 520 l) - Engines: 2 x 80 HP - Berths: 6 to 14 CE Certification A12/B14/C20/D30 - www.cata-lagoon.com 

Windelo 54 
In the same vein as the 50 - innovation and respect of the environment

WORLD PREMIERE

Canet-en-Roussillon in the South of France is on course to launch their second model, the Windelo 54. Only slightly heavier than her 50-foot sistership, but with significantly more canvas, this boat promises to be rapid on the water. The Christophe Barreau design features a very aft-set nacelle – yet open to the cockpit – and a helm station set forward. The 54 will be available with fixed keels or daggerboards. As with the 50, three versions are being offered by Windelo: the Adventure is designed for exploration and discovery, the Sport optimizes speed while the Yachting emphasizes comfort. In every aspect, materials, construction processes and engines are designed to reduce the impact on the environment.

Builder: Windelo - Length: 54’ (16.46 m) - Beam: 26’2” (7.98 m) - Light displacement: 28,220 lbs (12.8 t) - Draft: 3’5”/7’9” or 5’3” (1.05/2.35 m or 1.60 m) - Mainsail: 1,055 sq ft (98 m2) - Genoa: 484 sq ft (45 m2) - Gennaker: 1,819 sq ft (169 m2) - Engines: 2 x 16 kW - Fuel: 145 US gal (550 l) - Water: 105 US gal (400 l) - Berths: 12 - www.windelo-catamarans.com 

ORC 57 
Certainely one of the fastest production multihulls...

While remaining faithful to the DNA of her smaller sisterships, the ORC 57 is this time designed by Marc Lombard – the two previous models having been designed by Barreau/Neuman. Very light but habitable, the 57 promises exceptional performance – in a good breeze with a relatively slight sea, she should be capable of holding a 20-knot average over many hours. Enough to shorten the longest of passages! This model will fulfil the requirements of crews infatuated by speed, by offshore racing and also by high-end charter.

Builder: Marsaudon Composites - Length: 56’1” (17.10 m) - Beam: 29’6” (9.00 m) - Light displacement: 24,900 lbs (11.3 t) - Mainsail: 1,162 sq ft (108 m2) - Genoa: 936 sq ft (87 m2) - Engines: 2 x 57 HP - Berths, standard version: 8 CE Category: A - Price: € 1,085,000 ex-tax www.marsaudon-composites.com 

CK67
Built for blue water 

We haven’t got much information yet on this large cruising catamaran other than that it was built in aluminum by Squalt Marine International in Bizerte, Tunisia, and that it is owned by a pool of partners. Watch this space!