New Zealand electric propulsion company ZeroJet has secured two nominations at the 2026 Boat Builder Awards, placing a locally developed jet system among the most significant international boatbuilding projects of the year.
The nominations recognise MC-ZERO Tenders, a joint venture between ZeroJet and McConaghy Boats. The MC-ZERO 450 electric tender is shortlisted for Innovative Design Solution, while the partnership itself is nominated for Collaborative Solution between a Builder and its Supply Chain Partner.
The 4.5m tender features a carbon composite hull and twin electric jets, with a helm and seat assembly that can be repositioned within the cockpit. MC-ZERO claims this layout provides up to 40 per cent more usable space than a comparable RIB, though this comparison has not been independently established.
ZeroJet’s return to the shortlist marks a shift from its 2024 nomination, when it supplied electric propulsion to Prestol Composites for the Spark Boat. The latest recognition involves a dedicated tender company with Chris Baird appointed chief executive in June 2026, developing complete boats with the propulsion system incorporated from the original design.
The Innovative Design Solution category pits the MC-ZERO 450 against three vastly different vessels: Galeon’s 570 SKY, which integrates flybridge practicality into a sports cruiser profile; MIRAVA Boats’ M800 with its movable bow and stern structures; and Riva’s 54.83m 54Metri superyacht with extensive glazing and a waterside terrace.
The awards shortlist reveals how specialist suppliers increasingly shape modern boat development. Other collaborative entries include Azimut’s partnership with Hull Vane on an underwater foil system for the Grande 44M, and Cantiere delle Marche with CMC Marine on a stabiliser energy recovery system.
The 12th annual Boat Builder Awards, organised by International Boat Industry and Metstrade in association with Raymarine, will name winners across six categories at Restaurant Harbour 8 in Amsterdam on 18 November.
