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Six New Boats Making U.S. Debuts at the Annapolis Sailboat Show

By George Day · On October 15, 2026

The Annapolis Sailboat Show is America’s largest in-the-water sailing show and the venue where builders from around the world often choose to introduce their newest designs to the North American market. This year is no exception and here are six of the newest designs to make their debuts:

Aquila 45

The second model in the new Aquila sailing range, the 45 Sail will make its North America debut at Annapolis Boat Show. At 47 feet with a 25’5″ beam, the design prioritizes interior space, exterior social hubs, cruising comfort, and sailing capability with over 1,350 square feet of upwind sail area.

The fixed bow provides additional deck space forward with comfortable seating and sun pad area. Bridge-to-bow access allows movement around the boat from the large open flybridge helm area which features U-shape seating, a coffee table, and forward-facing settee.

The aft cockpit, a social space designed for everything from family dinners to sunset celebrations, flows directly into the 45 Sail’s high-spec salon and galley. Panoramic windows bring natural light into the interior living spaces which offer comfort during extended cruising and a range of home comforts.

Buyers can choose between three and four cabin configurations, each with private entrances and heads with showers, meaning the 45 Sail can comfortably sleep up to 12 guests. This adaptability and personalization is aimed at suiting the different needs of both private owners and charter operations.

Knysna 550

The Knysna 550 is a 55-foot bluewater cruising catamaran from Knysna Yacht Company, designed in collaboration with VDS Marine Design as the successor to the Knysna 500. Built for offshore passages, it pairs a protected raised helm station and wave-piercing hulls with the fuel and water capacity for extended time at sea. The 550 is offered as a semi-custom build, with three- or four-cabin layouts and a choice of two configurations: the 550SL Sky Lounge and the 550SE Solar Explorer. Shortlisted for World Multihull of the Year 2026, the boat makes its global public debut at the Annapolis Sailboat Show.

Leopard 43

Building on the proven DNA of Leopard’s latest sailing catamarans, the Leopard 43 introduces a fresh evolution in comfort, performance, and onboard living. A mast raised by 3 feet and a 12% increase in upwind sail area deliver a more responsive, engaging sailing experience, while expansive wraparound saloon windows fill the interior with natural light and provide panoramic 360° views. Thoughtfully designed stackable sliding doors create a seamless connection between the saloon and aft cockpit, complemented by inviting social spaces including an upper lounge and a new forward cockpit settee. With integrated glass solar panels capable of generating up to 1,365W, the Leopard 43 also offers an energy-ready design that supports extended cruising without compromising performance or style.

Tartan 34

Making its American debut, the Tartan 34 is about making sailing part of everyday life—easy to use, easy to enjoy, and always ready. Slip away for an afternoon sail, feel the boat come alive in a steady breeze, and return to the dock as the sun begins to set. Or extend the escape into a weekend, dropping anchor in a quiet harbor just a short distance from home.

Life aboard feels simple and refined. The cockpit becomes your front porch on the water—perfect for conversation, a shared drink, or simply watching the light change across the horizon. Below, the cabin offers a warm and inviting retreat, where thoughtful design and natural light create a space that feels both comfortable and personal.

This is a boat that fits your life, not the other way around. A place to disconnect, recharge, and enjoy time on the water without the complexity of a larger yacht. With the Tartan 34, adventure is always within reach—perfectly scaled to go when you are.

Vaan R4

Vaan designs and builds aluminum luxury sailing yachts. Their aluminum catamarans are stronger, safer and more silent than composite cats. A true sailing yacht where sailing is easy and fun, yet at the same time a true luxury living space which feels more spacious, calm and exclusive. As they build in aluminum, for owners not charter companies, they can personalize each Vaan to be unique for each owner. For the innovative and discerning sailor, check out its unique specifications:

  • LOA: 42 ft / 12.80 m
  • Beam: 7.06 m
  • Draft: 130 cm / 195 cm (retractable centerboard optional)
  • Total Mast Height: 19.8 m
  • Propulsion: 2x electric sail drives
  • Bridge deck clearance 60 cm
  • Main: 55 m2
  • Jib: 30 m2 (self-tacking)
  • Code-0: 85 m2 (option)
  • Gennaker: 135 m2 (option)

Voyage 510

The VOYAGE 510 is the newest expression of the Voyage Yachts range, building directly upon structural and operational lessons drawn from the award-winning VOYAGE 590 platform. More compact and responsive, it was developed to refine the relationship between private ownership and charter capability.

The VOYAGE 510 balances volume and manageability, offering a platform substantial enough for private cruising, structured for charter operation, and designed for operators who value structural integrity, accessible systems, spacious interiors, refined finishes, and exceptional stability and performance at sea. Every element is designed for longevity, ease of operation, and life at sea.

At 51 ft, 1 in with an 26 ft, 11 in beam, the VOYAGE 510 combines generous interior volume with a carefully engineered hull form. Integrated chines support efficient hydrodynamic performance and controlled displacement, while twin Yanmar shaft drives and a performance sail plan deliver steady, confident passage-making. A single consolidated helm simplifies sail handling and centralizes controls.

The standard cruising configuration provides a complete, livable platform, featuring four spacious en-suite cabins with queen island berths, 6.5 ft standing height, uninterrupted sightlines, a generous L-shaped galley, dedicated navigation station, spacious engine rooms and extensive underfloor storage.

 

Read more here.

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Publisher & Editor: George Day

Blue Water Sailing Media publishes Blue Water Sailing magazine, Multihulls Today and other titles.

Cruising Compass Advertising Sales:

George Day, Newport, RI
george@bwsailing.com
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