At the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival, Garcia is unveiling a new concept for sailing expedition catamaran yachts at aluminium, ranging from 62 to 82 feet. Presented through the design of a first 72-foot model, the project is based on a clear principle: to create a true sailing base camp capable of supporting demanding exploration programs in the most remote regions, particularly in high latitudes.
Designed with expeditions in mind
Visiting the Lofoten Islands, Svalbard, Patagonia, or Antarctica is one goal. Being able to operate independently there is another.
Ski-sailing. Scuba diving. Kayaking. Paragliding. Land exploration.
Each activity requires its own equipment, storage space, operational resources, and specific onboard organization. These requirements are incorporated into the boat’s design from the outset.
The 72-foot design thus features ample storage space that can be configured according to the owner's needs. Its aft deck remains largely unobstructed for preparing equipment and engaging in activities.
Two tenders provide additional capabilities. A first, lightweight tender is mounted on a launch ramp integrated into the port-side hull at the stern. Readily available, it is particularly useful for conducting reconnaissance in poorly mapped areas or for hauling a mooring line ashore. A second, larger tender is stored on the flybridge and handled by a crane. It allows the crew to extend their range of operation beyond the boat.
The catamaran serves as the base from which the program is carried out.
The Belvedere Pilot House
At the heart of the design, Garcia and Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design have developed a full-fledged wheelhouse.
Located at the front of the deck and slightly elevated, the Belvedere Pilot House combines the interior Helm station , and a lounge area. The inverted roof offers a sweeping view of the surroundings and the boat.
The owner, skipper, and crew thus share a common, protected space centered on sailing, watch duty, and decision-making.
When conditions become challenging, the crew can stay warm and protected while still having a clear view of their surroundings.
The wheelhouse provides direct access to the flybridge helm station. Sheltered and enveloping, it serves as a second space from which to steer the boat. Its adjustable enclosure also allows it to be opened up when the voyage takes the boat to warmer latitudes.
Comfort is key here. It helps ensure that the crew remains alert and focused over the long term.
62, 72, and 82 feet. First, the program.
Garcia will offer this design in three sizes: 62, 72, and 82 feet.
Each unit will follow a semi-custom approach. The interior layout, storage, technical spaces, and crew organization can be configured according to the intended uses.
For example, the galley could be installed in the gondola or in a hull, combined with the crew quarters and mess hall.
A Charter Expedition configuration will offer greater passenger capacity for commercial operations. A Scientific Expedition version will meet the needs of programs requiring sample collection, onboard analysis, or the deployment of equipment at sea.
Different missions. Tailored configurations. The same commitment to consistency between the vessel and its mission.
More than 50 years of experience in thealuminium
This project draws on Garcia’s more than 50 years of experience in building sailboats made of aluminium.
It also ties in with another chapter inthe shipyard's history. In the 2000s, Garcia built large, custom-built vessels ranging from 70 to 80 feet.
More recently, theExplocat 52 has demonstrated the shipyard’s expertise in the production of the “ aluminium ” catamaran. Fifteen units are already sailing around the world. One was sailing in Patagonia last winter. Another is currently completing a crossing of the Northwest Passage from east to west.
The new project brings together these various areas of expertise: shipbuilding aluminium, multihulls, large vessels, and demanding exploration programs.
Aluminium. Protection. Autonomy.
These new catamarans incorporate the core features of Garcia’s expedition sailboats:
• aluminium-formed hulls.
• Double glazing.
• Thermal insulation.
• Central boiler heating.
• Systems designed for long-term self-sufficiency.
These choices are designed to meet the challenges of high latitudes and demanding voyages.
But the program isn't limited to cold regions. The boats are also designed to remain fully functional and comfortable as the journey continues into temperate or tropical zones.
An expedition sailboat should not dictate the itinerary. It should provide the means to carry it out.
A New Scale for Exploration
With this new family of 62-, 72-, and 82-foot sailing expedition catamarans, Garcia is opening a new chapter in its approach to exploration. These aren’t just bigger catamarans.
Sail-powered base camps designed to reach remote areas, operate there independently, and provide the necessary capabilities for the program.
72-FOOT CONCEPT — KEY FEATURES
Overall length: 22.9 m
Hull length: 21.3 m
Beam: 10 m
Area of mainsail : 137 m²
Area of solent jib : 123 m²
Air draft : 32 m
Architect: Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design
