Annapolis visitors can inspect a dedicated hybrid cruising catamaran
Antares Catamarans is preparing to display the Antares 44 Hybrid at Dock C during the Annapolis Sailboat Show, running from October 15 to 18, 2026. The manufacturer has invited prospective owners to arrange individual appointments to inspect a yacht developed around offshore liveaboard use rather than short bursts of high-speed sailing.
The show appearance places the hybrid alongside the established diesel-powered Antares 44 GT in the builder's range. Both versions share the fundamental platform, with differences in propulsion and onboard energy choices that affect installation, maintenance and how an owner plans longer cruises.
Antares also builds a larger 46-foot design, but the 44 at this particular stand is the confirmed boat visitors are invited to view. The company has not announced that the Hybrid is making its first ever world debut, so this is an opportunity for close inspection rather than a new-model-launch claim.
A sheltered helm and purposeful liveaboard interior
The Antares 44 measures approximately 13.6 metres overall with a 6.6-metre beam and a draft of about 1.2 metres. Its relatively shallow draft is useful in some coastal anchorages, although broad multihull beam means owners must plan for suitable marina berths and haul-out equipment.
A defining feature is the protected helm, integrated closely with the cockpit and a raised saloon that provides broad sightlines. The arrangement is intended to keep the person on watch connected to other people aboard while remaining sheltered from rain, wind and spray.
Below, the three-cabin owner-focused layout provides a practical galley, accommodation with natural light and substantial space for stowing tools and supplies. For an extended trip, how easily crew members can reach lockers, plumbing and electrical systems deserves as much attention as the decorative finish.
Hybrid energy needs careful operational questions
The manufacturer positions the Hybrid version around increased electrical independence and quieter operation in certain situations. Unlike a standard diesel-first installation, a hybrid package requires careful integration of its batteries, control equipment, charging sources and any mechanical propulsion links.
Owners should ask how power is shared between propulsion and domestic consumers when sailing, manoeuvring or lying at anchor. Battery capacity by itself does not indicate range without an understanding of charging, vessel loading, hotel demand and the reserve energy needed for safety.
Antares' published reference data for the platform include two 40hp Yanmar diesel engines in conventional configurations, fuel tanks totalling around 455 litres and fresh-water storage of roughly 568 litres. The equipment installed on the hybrid show yacht should be confirmed against its individual specification rather than inferred directly from the standard diesel figures.
Practical comparisons for a buyer at Dock C
Antares emphasises shaft-drive propulsion, protected steering equipment and access to machinery as important elements of its cruising philosophy. Those are useful topics when comparing a production multihull with vessels intended primarily for charter or shorter coastal trips.
The presence of the actual catamaran in Annapolis offers a chance to check ergonomics under sail, movement between the galley and cockpit and the location of electrical panels. Buyers should also ask about the manufacturer's service network and how replacement parts will be supported during a passage far from the original yard.
Particular attention should go to emergency operation if an electrical component fails, since fault tolerance is more important on a long voyage than a quoted percentage of potential fuel saving. Prospective owners may also wish to compare the Hybrid with the diesel GT version before deciding how much technological complexity suits their plans.
The photograph accompanying this report comes from Antares' own model gallery and shows the real Antares 44 sailing offshore. It is a model photograph, not an assertion that the specific Annapolis display boat has already been photographed at the October 2026 show.
