Contents Multihulls World #202 -

Cast off and set sail: Is the dream becoming more achievable?

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Publié le 26/05/2025

Par Emmanuel van Deth

Numéro : 202

Parution : Jul. / Aug. 2025

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2022 and 2023 will go down in the annals of recreational boating: unprecedented demand—particularly for cruising multihulls—coupled with high inflation have logically prompted shipyards to implement significant price increases. Longer delivery times have also contributed to the rise in the price of our multihulls, as manufacturers have been forced to anticipate price increases from their suppliers (engines, sails, deck hardware, etc.)

But today, demand is drying up, inflation is back under control, and the yards are finding themselves stuck with products that are very (too) expensive. Last year saw the start of a price war, which is continuing this year with an avalanche of new products in both the sailing and power sectors. These new models are the best way for manufacturers to “realign” themselves with market expectations: it makes more sense to launch a new model that is 20% cheaper than the previous one than to reduce the price of an existing multihull by the same amount. Designing a new product is certainly a very significant investment, but manufacturers prefer this option in order to keep their customers and the second-hand market happy. Price “deregulation” has become common practice in other markets (rental, automotive, etc.), but the recreational boating sector does not seem to be ready for it. This context presents a great opportunity for those who want to set sail on a multihull: more choice among very recent models, falling prices, and delivery times that are now well below 12 months are particularly motivating factors.

This Special Boat Test Issue, which features no fewer than seven new models ranging from 36 to 75 feet, is a perfect illustration of the dynamism of the multihull market. Step aboard with us!

Enjoy reading - and watching!

Emmanuel van Deth
Publishing Manager