Multihulls World has announced the results of its 2026 Multihull of the Year awards, with readers and judges delivering a mix of expected frontrunners and a few close-run finishes across six categories spanning sail and power.
The Aquila 50 Sail was among the night’s standout performers, picking up the International Multihull Show Premiere award in addition to a third-place finish in the hotly contested Sail 45′ to 55′ category, underlining the industry’s strong reception of Aquila’s first foray into the sailing market.
Sail under 45′ One of the tightest categories of the evening, the Lagoon 38 took top honours with 22.2% of the vote, just half a percentage point clear of the Fountaine Pajot FP44 on 21.68%. The Excess 13 rounded out the podium on 17.27%.
Sail 45′ to 55′ The Leopard 52 was the clear choice in this category, claiming first place with 27.94% of the vote. The Balance 502 came in second on 23.19%, with the Aquila 50 Sail third on 13.88%.
Sail over 55′ The largest sail category produced the closest result of the night. The McConaghy MC68 won on 23.19%, with the C-Cat 65 breathing down its neck on 23.07%. The OE62 finished third on 19.11%.
Power under 45′ The Wama 42 XL was the most commanding winner of the evening, pulling away from the field with 31.27% of the vote. The Millikan M.10 finished second on 19.72%, ahead of the Heritage 36 on 18.81%.
Power 45′ to 60′ The Prestige M7 topped its category with 27.7%, followed by the Rapido 500 ECO Power Cat on 22.98% and the Sunreef Ultima 55 on 16.93%.
Power over 60′ Another nail-biter. The Silent Yachts SY80 edged the category on 22.77%, with the Oceanwalker S60 Revolution finishing just 0.12 percentage points behind on 22.65%. The AY60 took third on 16.66%.
IMS Premiere The Aquila 50 Sail claimed the International Multihull Show Premiere award, recognising the most significant new model presented at the International Multihull Show. Judges commended the design as a bold and precise entry into the sailing market.
Aquila 50 Sail arrives in New Zealand with new dealer network
Capt’n Boat The Outremer 52 took the reader-voted Capt’n Boat award, a fitting result for one of the most respected offshore cruising catamarans in production.
