The 2025 Caribbean Multihull Challenge (CMC) in St. Maarten has drawn an eclectic mix of entries in both its racing and rally divisions, reflecting the evolution of this annual event into a key gathering for multihull enthusiasts. With 18 competitors in the racing category and 9 rally participants, the regatta once again highlights the diversity and innovation within the multihull community.
Among this year’s entries is Lee Overlay and Partners, an HH66 that has seen success in past editions of the event. The boat, formerly known as Nemo, is now in the hands of new owners who bring years of experience from high-performance monohull racing. Another high-profile entry is Layla, a 72-foot Gunboat known for combining performance with cruising comforts, including a flybridge—an uncommon feature for competitive yachts in this category.
The trimaran lineup features vessels with intriguing histories. Triple Jack, a veteran racer from the British Virgin Islands, was severely damaged during Hurricane Irma but has since been meticulously restored and is back on the racing scene. It will face off against competitors like the foil-assisted PIR 2 from Guadeloupe, Chaud Patate, a 40-foot French trimaran, and Honey Badger, a Corsair 37 that has become a regular presence in St. Maarten regattas.
The CMC also includes a Diam 24 one-design class, which brings an added dimension of competition to the event. With six entries this year, including Cry Baby helmed by experienced sailor Pierre Altier, these lightweight, high-speed boats will race short courses in Great Bay before the fleet transitions to longer courses. A scheduled “Jamboree” on the Great Bay Beach Boardwalk is expected to offer spectators a closer look at this exciting class.
Meanwhile, the rally division caters to sailors less focused on head-to-head racing, offering a timed format instead. Participants sail staggered starts, emphasizing individual performance over direct competition. Standout entries include Novia, a regular podium finisher from the Dominican Republic, and Little Wing, a Perry Antrim 52 owned by Ron Boehm. A pair of Balance catamarans and What’s Left, an F&P 51 from Texas, add variety to the rally lineup, showcasing the adaptability of multihulls to both comfort and speed.
This year’s event captures the range of what modern multihull sailing has to offer, from high-tech racers to storied vessels like Triple Jack, which continues to defy the odds, and cruising yachts balancing performance with leisure. The Caribbean Multihull Challenge has solidified its place as a unique event in the region, appealing to sailors of all stripes while offering a snapshot of the ever-evolving multihull scene.
