Having already attracted attention through a high-profile order from tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, an award-winning concept, and the recent launch of the latest hull at Sunreef's Ras Al Khaimah shipyard, Cannes will mark the first opportunity for the wider public to step aboard the new performance-focused catamaran.
A New Direction for Performance Catamarans
Developed entirely in-house by Sunreef Yachts, the Ultima 88 has been designed around efficiency, speed and onboard livability.
The composite yacht is available in either a conventional power configuration or a hybrid version capable of quiet electric cruising. Sunreef has also integrated many of the sustainable technologies that have become central to its recent models, including ultralight flexible solar panels, custom battery systems and hybrid propulsion. A hydrofoil-assisted configuration is also available as an option to further improve efficiency.
Rather than pursuing outright top speed alone, the project focuses on reducing drag through optimized hull geometry and a sleek aerodynamic profile. The result is a yacht intended to cruise efficiently while still offering performance expected from a modern luxury motor yacht.
Water-Level Living Defines the Exterior
The most distinctive area onboard is found aft, where Sunreef has developed what it calls the Ocean Lounge. Fold-down bulwark platforms expand the usable deck space at anchor, while a large aft garage, hydraulic platform and integrated sea stairs create direct access to the water. Together, these features transform the stern into a broad waterside terrace for swimming, launching water toys or relaxing close to the sea.
The yacht also benefits from a shallow draft, making it suitable for cruising areas and marinas that may be inaccessible to larger displacement yachts.
Elsewhere, expansive outdoor lounges provide multiple areas for dining, sunbathing and entertaining, while practical storage has been built into the motor yacht for tenders and electric water toys without compromising exterior living space.
A Bright Interior With Sustainability in Mind
Inside, the Ultima 88 follows a noticeably different design language from many yachts in this size range. Natural light is a defining feature throughout the main deck thanks to extensive glazing and low furniture that preserves uninterrupted views across the saloon. Rather than separating dining and lounge areas into distinct rooms, the layout creates one continuous social space with smooth circulation between interior and exterior decks.
Accommodation on board the catamaran is arranged for up to 10 guests across five cabins, including a full-beam owner's suite complete with a private sauna. Sustainable materials feature heavily throughout the interior, with responsibly sourced woods, recycled plastics and reclaimed fabrics used alongside a restrained palette of pale timber, stone and neutral upholstery.
An Important Moment for the Ultima Range
The Cannes debut arrives during a busy period for the Ultima series. Earlier this year, the Ultima 88 received the Concept Under 40m award at the International Yacht & Aviation Awards, before the latest example was launched from Sunreef's UAE production facility in July. The builder is also continuing to develo the larger Sunreef Ultima 111.
The model has also helped broaden Sunreef's appeal to a younger generation of owners. Carlos Alcaraz's decision to commission a customized Ultima 88 highlighted the builder's ambition to attract buyers looking for strong performance alongside the interior volume and stability traditionally associated with catamarans.
Other World Premieres Worth Comparing at Cannes
According to YachtBuyer MarketWatch, the largest yacht database in the world, several other world debuts of a similar size are appearing at this year's Cannes Yachting Festival, which visitors interested in the Sunreef Ultima 88 should also check out. The Numarine 27XP approaches long-range cruising from a very different perspective, pairing explorer yacht capability with a 2,200-nautical-mile range, expansive outdoor spaces and a layout aimed at extended time aboard.
British builder Princess Yachts will unveil the X90, bringing its Super Flybridge concept to the show with generous interior volume, a full-beam main-deck owner's suite and three distinct outdoor entertaining areas. Meanwhile, the Azimut Magellano 27M introduces the latest chapter of the Italian builder's voyager series, placing greater emphasis on architectural interiors, expansive glazing and a signature sea-facing loggia that strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Planning your trip to Cannes? Explore the full Cannes Yachting Festival 2026 attending yachts page in, featuring confirmed yachts organised by premiere status and YachtBuyer review coverage.
Together with the Sunreef Ultima 88, these premieres represent four very different interpretations of a modern yacht around the 27-meter mark. Whether buyers prioritize long-range capability, expansive entertainment spaces, sustainable propulsion or multihull stability, Cannes 2026 will offer an unusually broad selection of new designs to compare side by side.
Looking to buy a Sunreef yacht? View all new and used Sunreef Ultima 88 yachts for sale, tracked in real time by YachtBuyer MarketWatch. We scan the entire market to ensure access to all genuine listings, saving you time. Alternatively, you can view all other Sunreef yachts for sale.
