The 2026 sailing season is upon us. Many of you are considering purchasing a
new Corsair trimaran or a new Dragonfly trimaran or a pre-owned trimaran.
Where do you set your priorities?
There is so much to learn about either trimaran that it can become overwhelming. Are there a people who will train you? Where do you plan on sailing? Do you like flexbility? Who will be sailing with you? What kind of experience do they have? Is there a strong community in the U.S.? How soon can I have one? Who will support me? If something breaks who do you turn to? The list goes on and on. Our 180 Marine trimaran experts are here to help.
Setting your priorities will help to organize your options. (e.g., trailering importance, cruising nights per year, budget, crew size, displacement, sail area ratios, estimated resale values, wait times, years or months?, expensive repairs, community.
In general we’re comparing a Corsair 970 and a Dragonfly 28 trimaran, prices vary from model to model, but in general think about these issues.
Below is a clear, owner-focused comparison of the downsides of buying a new Dragonfly trimaran versus buying a new Corsair 970, framed around real-world ownership, not brochure specs.
Dragonfly 28
Dragonflys are generally considered premium boats with high-end construction
Choose 2026 Dragonfly 28 if you want: More cabin comfort and cruising capability
PROS
• Higher potential performance and upwind ability
• Aesthetics & Styling: Sleek, European lines; premium look/feel.
• Stability & Feel at Speed: Very stable and confidence-inspiring in rough conditions.
• Interior Space & Comfort: Larger, more comfortable cabin volume.
• Folding/Marina Handling: Excellent folding system — fast, precise, reduces slip costs.
• Performance (Speed) Typically higher potential speed, especially upwind.
Dragonfly 28
CONS
• Lead Time for New: Often 2-3 years (very few pre-owned come on the market)
• U.S. Support Network: Thin service/dealer network
• Maintenance Simplicity: More complex systems may mean specialized care.
• Service and support in North America: Fewer authorized service yards and dealers.
• Trailerability: Trailerable but heavier/wider; requires bigger tow setup/logistics.
• Complex folding system: Repairs usually require specialized knowledge.
• Resale Appeal (Premium Market): Stronger in markets that value premium design and build — may hold value well among enthusiasts.
• You’re paying now but won’t sail for years.
• Your funds are illiquid. (assets or investments that cannot be quickly and easily converted into cash at the current fair market price.)
• Delay in learning & enjoying your boat.
Corsair 970
Choose a 2026 Corsair 970 if you want: Excellent performance for its class.
PROS
• High-volume floats have been designed with additional buoyancy for sailing performance, giving the Corsair 970 greater stability and comfort.
• Refined Interior: The saloon boasts a sleek, white GRP liner for a clean, modern finish.
• Expanded Galley: Includes additional drawers and ample storage for long journeys.
• Private Enclosed Head: Offers added convenience and privacy.
• The Corsair 970 has a remarkably low heel, feels light, and is easy to manage on the helm.
• Quick and efficient on the water. At the same time, the added interior space ensures your time spent onboard is comfortable and enjoyable.
• With Corsair trimaran, availability is generally much better and you often get delivery within months, not years.
• Lower acquisition cost (even when well-optioned)
• Faster delivery and lower price
• Simpler folding system → easier service & fewer failure points
• Excellent U.S. parts availability
• Highly trailerable (one of its strongest advantages)
• Strong resale market in North America
• Repairs are more commonly understood by local yards, and easier DIY maintenance
A more forgiving learning curve and service network.
CONS
• More Spartan Amenities:Simpler finishes and hardware than premium boats.
• Impact: Less “home-like” at anchor or under sail.
• Limited headroom and storage.
• Slightly less refined upwind performance than some higher-end designs.
• May require more active trimming to extract top performance.
• Light and responsive hulls mean a livelier ride in chop and stronger seas.
• Compact hulls are less forgiving for heavy cruising gear. (weight matters)
If you’re weighing specific models (e.g., Dragonfly 28 vs Corsair 970) or want help estimating real delivery costs in 2026/27/28, I can put together a detailed cost comparison with quotes and tariff estimates. Just let me know.
Richard Allen / Owner / Expert Multihull Sailor / All around good guy!
richard@180marine.com