Seawind Catamarans Reports Its Strongest Annapolis Sailboat Show Since the Pandemic
Date: November 10, 2026
Seawind Catamarans left the 2026 Annapolis Sailboat Show with its best results since before the COVID-19 pandemic. The Australian builder brought the Seawind 1160XL, 1170 and 1370 to Annapolis October 15–18 and wrote new orders across its range, a sign of renewed confidence in bluewater-capable cruising catamarans despite a challenging recreational boating market.
A 20-Year Return Voyage
The 1160XL arrived in Annapolis by sea, and its route carried some history. In 2006, the original Seawind 1160 earned Boat of the Show recognition in Newport, then sailed to Annapolis and went on to win major awards from Cruising World and SAIL Magazine. Twenty years later, after the 1160XL made its U.S. debut in Newport this September, Seawind Founder and CEO Richard Ward and Kerry Fahey sailed it down the same route.
The conditions put the new design to the test. “With seas of 3–4 metres and winds gusting above 35 knots, this was a testing but extremely satisfying sail on our latest model,” Ward said. “With a new hull shape, elevated wingdeck and powerful reverse bows, the boat was remarkable in challenging conditions and confirmed for me that she’s a truly capable, sub-40-foot cruising catamaran that can take you anywhere.”
The boat hit 19.5 knots surfing down the coast. The 1160XL is already nominated for the 2027 Cruising World Boat of the Year and SAIL Magazine’s Top 10 Best Boats.
Orders and Owners
Buyers also committed to the Seawind 1170, 1270 and 1370, with plans ranging from coastal cruising to extended offshore passages and life aboard. Corsair Marine, also part of the Seawind group, added a new trimaran order. On October 16, Seawind hosted an Owners Evening that brought together owners, prospective customers, dealers and the Seawind team.
Looking Ahead
Founded in Australia in 1982, Seawind celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2027 with four Owners Regattas in Türkiye, Thailand, the United States and Australia. The new Seawind 1270 is set to make its U.S. debut at the Miami International Boat Show in February 2027.