You are ready to take the plunge. Or you aren’t. Whether you are on the ten year plan or the ten month plan, it does not matter. We all have to start our search somewhere. And for a large percentage of boat buyers, you start your online research and then eventually make plans to attend a boat show. But which boat show do you attend? There are so many to choose from it can seem a bit overwhelming at first. But not to fear. We have complied a list of the top boat shows to attend if you are in search of a multihull.
What makes attending boat shows so important for buyers is that you have the opportunity to see it all in one place. You can size up manufacturers and you can climb on and off each size yacht to determine which size will be the best for you. Ironically, the boat shows that made our list take place around the world, so there is bound to be one in close enough proximity that you won’t have to travel too far to find your perfect catamaran.
Miami International Boat Show
Nothing beats the South Florida sun in February. We couldn’t think of a better way to enjoy a Saturday in Miami than to spend your days climbing on and off every size and every manufacturer of catamarans that exists. If you are in search of the perfect sailing catamaran, this show will provide you with the opportunity to explore all of your options! Once the sun has set it’s off to South Beach for a night on the town, then wake up Sunday and do it all over again!
For the first time in 2018 the Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail Miami combined forces at one location, on Virginia Key, Miami to create a powerhouse yacht show. After the success of the 2018 combined boat shows, NMMA decided to continue this trend and keep the two shows together. Catamaran Cove, the sailing section of the Miami International Boat Show, displays nearly every multihull builder that you could imagine and the show consistently has over 100,000 attendees. If you are considering the purchase of a sailing catamaran or a power catamaran, this show should be at the top of your list!
Website: www.miamiboatshow.com
International Multihull Boat Show
The only one of its kind in the world! With more than 60 multihulls on display, this boat show is solely dedicated to the catamaran and trimaran industry– both sail and power! Situated in the quaint city of La Grande-Motte on the Southern Coast of France, the city if known for its pyramid-like architecture and it’s beaches. It is also a popular resort destination for French locals. Go for the boat show and stay for the beaches! Indulge in a weekend getaway in the south of France while searching for the catamaran of your dreams.
Website: www.multicoque-online.com
United States Sail Boat Show
Taking place in the sailing capital of the world, it goes without saying that this show would be prime shopping for catamarans and monohulls alike! The United States Sail Boat Show is the only standing in-water sailboat show in the United States. What sets this show apart from others is that you can learn a thing or two while you are here! Experienced sailors and cruisers are eager to teach hands-on sailing courses throughout the week, so if you are new to sailing, this is the show to attend! Situated next to the United States Naval Academy, after a morning of exploring the boat show, why not take a guided tour of the campus or kick back and watch some sailing on the Chesapeake Bay.
Website: www.annapolisboatshows.com/united-states-sailboat-show
Cannes Yachting Festival
This is the first boat show to kick off boat show season, and Europe’s largest in-water boating event. With the growing popularity of catamarans, the list of multihull exhibitors grows each year. Now at two separate locations, you will find the sailing yachts at Port Canto and the motor yachts at Vieux Port. The beautiful Bay of Cannes provides a spectacular back drop for this top-notch yacht show. What we like about this show is that you can explore all of the major players in the yachting game, see the latest in maritime innovation, and discover all of your multihull options as well. If you plan to attend this show, make it a point to stray from the catamarans for awhile and discover some some of yachting’s newest inventions.
Website: www.cannesyachtingfestival.com
Singapore Yacht Show
If you are in the market for a catamaran, you should know that all of the biggest names in the multihull industry will have a strong presence at this yacht show. Heavier on the power catamarans than the sailing catamarans at this particular show, you are still sure to see and discover plenty of both– plus a few regional debuts! More than just a boat show, the Singapore Yacht Show is also a social event to the region with entertainment, fashion, fine-dining and more. The show organizers and sponsors have spent a fair amount of time studying Asian Boating Trends and they have used that research to provide consumers who plan to attend this show with the products that they want to see.
Website: www.singaporeyachtshow.com
Sydney International Boat Show
Australia you say? While you may be far from all major catamaran builders, you need not to worry! You can take comfort in knowing that you climbing aboard seaworthy vessels. Many of these yachts will be brought over on their own bottom. Tested and proven to withstand even the toughest conditions, arriving just in time for their boat show debut! With an emphasis on recreational boating, this particular show is the premier boating event in Australia. Last year this boat show celebrated their 50th anniversary. If you are planning to attend a world-class event in a first-class location, all while discovering the latest in the multihull industry, look no further than the Sydney International Boat Show.
Website: www.sydneyboatshow.com.au
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
What seems to have once been a show for larger sized luxury yachts, has involved into a show that encompasses every type of yacht. You will now stumble upon sailing catamarans and power catamarans conveniently placed in one general area of this massive show. The Yachting Capital of the World promises to provide you with everything you want to see plus more. Pick out your perfect yacht and dinghy at this show, and once you have sized up the multihulls, check out the trawlers, superyachts, sportfishers, skiffs, center consoles and everything in between! You will need the entire day (maybe even two) to see everything that this show has to offer, so keep your weekend open. This show is situated on the beautiful beaches of Fort Lauderdale so do yourself a favor and book a room with an ocean view.
Website: www.flibs.com
Do you want to find out what boat shows you can find Leopard Catamarans at? Discover them all here!
