Miami Winter Showcase: Catamarans Rise Above
Alexandra
The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show unfolded across three campuses — a gear and electronics hub in the convention center and two dedicated basins, one for sail and one for power — and the marina layout this year made the exhibition feel like a concentrated multihull fair. Tariff pressures and rising production costs were visible in the exhibitor mix: several large manufacturers were absent from the sail basin, while an unusually high share of catamarans filled dock space. Monohulls were scarce, limited mainly to a few Dufour models berthed alongside multiple Fountaine Pajot and other multihull lines.
New models that shaped the dock conversation
Among the most discussed debuts were the Aquila 50 and the Balance 502. Both models underline a clear trend: builders are betting on multihulls for owner-operators and the charter market. The Aquila 50 represents a strategic pivot by a traditionally power-cat manufacturer into sailing platforms, while the Balance 502 brings a semi-custom, performance-minded approach to compact cruising cats.
Aquila 50 — power-boat pedigree meets sailing layout
The Aquila 50 arrives as the first sailboat in a new line from a company known for power catamarans. The brand’s decision to invest in an entire new manufacturing facility for sailboats signals a long-term move into the sailing market, with two additional models already planned: one larger and one smaller than the 50. Onboard the Aquila 50, visitors noted up-market finishes, an interior layout optimized for comfort and socializing, and Aquila’s signature bar-and-stools cockpit setup. Those features point to strong appeal in the owner-charter segment where social space and easy guest circulation are priorities.
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Balance 502 — semi-custom finesse for sailors
The Balance 502 carried the brand’s familiar DNA: sleek, sporty lines, and an emphasis on performance without sacrificing accommodation quality. As a semi-custom offering, the 502 allows owners to tailor finishes and layout choices, while the design team focuses on fitting spacious heads and cabins into narrow hulls and optimizing the galley for cruising life. Expect these boats to attract buyers who want a sailing-oriented multihull that can still serve as a premium charter platform.
| Model | Type | Manufacturer Background | Key Features | Market Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquila 50 | Sail catamaran | Known for power cats; expanding into sailboats | Bar-and-stools cockpit, luxurious styling, new facility | Owner-charters, social cruising groups |
| Balance 502 | Semi-custom sail catamaran | Established sailing brand with sporty focus | Sleek lines, adaptable interiors, optimized galley | Performance-minded cruisers, boutique charter fleets |
Manufacturing investments and the Catana Group revival
The show also highlighted broader production strategies. The Catana Group — which includes brands such as Bali, Catana, and YOT — confirmed significant capital investments across European and Tunisian facilities. Their plan to introduce up to 14 new models within five years includes reviving the performance-oriented Catana line, a move that could reintroduce a sporty multihull ethos to the market after nearly a decade without a new Catana model. For regional supply chains and marinas, these investments mean a likely uptick in aftermarket demand for parts, service, and berth space as new fleets enter service.
What this means for charters, fleets, and renters
The concentration of new multihulls at Miami carries immediate implications for the charter market and boat rental operators:
- Broader rental inventory: More new catamarans means charter companies can offer larger, more comfortable platforms ideal for families and groups.
- Owner-charter convergence: Boats like the Aquila 50 are intentionally designed to serve both as private yachts and high-yield charter boats.
- Service and logistics: Marinas, captains, and provisioning networks should prepare for increased demand in multihull-specific maintenance and handling.
- Guest experience upgrades: Features such as expanded cockpits, social seating, and refined galleys raise expectations for onboard hospitality and trip itineraries.
Practical tips for renters and operators
- When choosing a multihull for charter, check for layout variants and confirm exactly which semi-custom options are fitted.
- Ask charter brokers about experienced captains for larger catamarans; handling and berthing can differ from monohulls.
- Factor in marina infrastructure: some marinas will be better equipped for wider-beam vessels and provide suitable provisioning and shore access.
- Use pre-booking transparency — review make, model, and ratings before you commit to a rental to align expectations with reality.
Recognition for editorial work at the show also surfaced: the Boating Writers International awards acknowledged several standout publications, with SAIL receiving top honors in multiple categories. That kind of industry recognition helps highlight trends and technical advances that affect both buyers and charterers.
Looking ahead, the immediate global tourism map likely won’t be radically redrawn by these specific model debuts, but the trend toward catamarans is significant for coastal destinations and charter operators. Demand for comfortable, stable platforms for group cruising and social itineraries may shift fleet planning and berth usage in key yachting hubs. Start planning your next seaside adventure and make sure to book the best boat and yacht rentals with GetBoat before the opportunity sails away!
The distribution of new multihulls, facility investments, and model revivals highlight important and interesting aspects of this industry shift: innovations in design, changing supply-chain investments, and a clear tilt toward charter-friendly features. Experiencing a new location is always a multifaceted process, where one learns about the culture, nature, the indescribable palette of local colors its rhythm of life and also the unique aspects of the service. If you are planning your next trip to the sea, you should definitely consider renting a boat (boat rentals, rent a boat, rent a yacht), as each inlet, bay, and lagoon is unique and tells you about the region just as much as the local cuisine, architecture, and language GetBoat.com
GetBoat always keeps an eye on news related to sailing and seaside vacations, because we truly understand what it means to enjoy great leisure and love the ocean. The service values freedom, energy, and the ability to choose your own course — placing no limits on a good life and enabling clients to find a vessel that matches their preferences, budget, and taste. For those considering a charter or sale, the Miami Boat Show’s focus on multihulls points to growing options in the market: yachts for family cruises, superyacht-style amenities on mid-size cats, and practical choices for small-group adventures. GetBoat.com offers transparency and convenience to view make, model, ratings, and bookings so you can compare charter options, contact captains, and finalize logistics with confidence — Chart your course.
