Newport, Rhode Island will host the fall’s first big in-the-water boat show next week and this year there are six brand new models that will have their market debuts. Newport is a sailor’s town and there are plenty of sailing things to do both inside the show and around the city’s picturesque water front.
Here’s a quick look at the six debutants for 2026:
Dragonfly 36
Following in the wake of the successful Dragonfly 40 that was introduced three years ago, the new Dragonfly 36 is making its first North American showing in Newport. Like all Dragonflys, the 36 has folding amas or pontoon so it can fit in a normal marina slip. The design has proven to be fast and of ocean-going quality. Regular speeds. In the teen are to be expected. And at 36 feet, it has accommodations for family cruising.
Seawind 1160 XL
The 1160XL features an optimized hull shape with increased beam and raised freeboard, providing the stability and load-carrying capacity required for comfortable family life. The inclusion of 800mm lifelines and wider side decks marks a significant step up in safety, ensuring secure movement for all ages even in heavy swells. Despite the focus on comfort, the XL maintains its performance heritage with a modern sail plan and advanced laminate schedule. Whether choosing outboard or inboard engines, the 1160XL remains the most maneuverable and predictable boat in its category, inspiring confidence in every owner.
X-Yachts XR 41
From regatta podiums to relaxed weekend getaways, the XR 41 brings together cutting-edge race performance and refined cruising comfort. Built for both worlds, it’s ready for whatever kind of sailing you have in mind. What began as a bold design vision is now a reality on the water. Launched in January 2025, the XR 41 is more than just a new model — it’s a statement of intent from X-Yachts: precision engineering, race-winning pedigree, cruising comfort and smart versatility, all in one remarkable yacht.
Vision 444 ES
The Vision 444ES redefines performance cruising – a lightweight, safe, reliable catamaran built with single-handed sailing or a cruising family in mind. It features a spacious layout, and easy access to all major systems for effortless maintenance. Innovative hull design delivers spirited performance, while thoughtful engineering throughout and precision-built construction make this a catamaran built to be sailed, not just admired.
Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 455
The 455 revolutionizes modern cruising with intuitive, single-handed sailing capabilities that put you in command without the crew, paired with a reimagined interior that maximizes living space and comfort beyond its class. Its thoughtfully optimized deck layout and simplified systems make extended offshore adventures effortless, while the expanded cabin design delivers the luxurious accommodations. The bonus room is a standout feature the competition does not offer. Elegant, easy to sail, and built for living well at sea.
Swan 51
Marking the same overall length as Germán Frers’ very first design for Nautor Swan, the brand-new Swan 51 celebrates over four decades of shared heritage with the famed naval architect. True to their legacy, this latest 51-footer blends timeless elegance with modern performance, offering the perfect balance of comfort, agility, and the pure joy of sailing.
