The Boat Builder Awards 2025 return next week, with the industry now turning its attention to Wednesday 19 November when this year’s winners will be revealed in Amsterdam. Now in its 11th year, the awards continue to highlight the ideas, partnerships and people driving progress across the global leisure marine and superyacht sectors.
Organised by IBI and Metstrade, with headline sponsor Raymarine, the awards recognise outstanding achievement in innovation, design solutions, sustainability, collaboration and emerging talent. Earlier this year, a panel of seven international judges reviewed 68 entries and confirmed a shortlist of 34 companies, setting the stage for what promises to be a particularly strong edition.
The awards dinner will take place at Harbour 8, a dedicated venue just steps from Metstrade’s expanded show floors. The new location brings the celebration closer to the heart of the event, giving builders, designers and suppliers a seamless transition from the show day into an evening that encourages conversation and connection. Guests will also enjoy a menu led by Green Michelin star chef Luc Kusters, underscoring the theme of returning “back to the source”.
Judging panel chair and IBI Editor, Ed Slack, says this year reflects a clear lift in development activity across the industry. He notes that even with the awards categories streamlined, the ratio of entries increased, showing renewed product development, new entrants to the market and strong contributions from rising talent. The shortlist spans everything from advanced tenders and electric catamarans to collaborative AI driven systems and circular composite projects.
Metstrade Exhibition Manager Patricia Becker adds that the awards are evolving into a wider industry gathering. Hosting the event at Harbour 8 strengthens the connection between the show and the celebration, helping boatbuilders and their supply chain partners meet, collaborate and share ideas in a more relaxed setting.
2025 Boat Builder Awards shortlist
Breakthrough Launch of the Year
Evene Tenders Origin Series; Lazzara Yachts LPC 300; MODX Catamarans MODX 70; Omaya Yachts Omaya 50; X Yachts XR 41
Innovative Design Solution
Amare Group AMY 330e; De Antonio Yachts D60; Highfield Boats ADV7; Lazzara Yachts LPC 300; MODX Catamarans MODX 70
Collaboration Between Builder and Supply Chain Partner
Azimut Yachts and WATCHIT; Sanlorenzo and Volvo Penta; Sirena Yachts with Vanemar and Garmin; Frauscher x Porsche; Starcraft with Uflex USA, Axium Group, Rollie Williams and Williamsburg Marine
Sustainability Project of the Year
Evene Tenders; Ferretti Group; TU Delft Hydro Motion Team; Thunderjet with Supersede; Groupe Beneteau with Veolia, Composite Recycling, Arkema, Owens Corning and Chomarat
With the ceremony now five days away, the sector is preparing to gather in Amsterdam to recognise a year of meaningful progress, strong collaboration and innovative thinking. The Boat Builder Awards remain a vital moment for acknowledging the people and companies shaping the next chapter of global boatbuilding.
