Breakthrough Launch of the Year 2023

One defining characteristic of the post pandemic boating boom has been the acceleration of new model development as builders look to answer consumer demands for new, innovative products. With such a proliferation of boat launches how does a particular brand cut through? What elevates a model above the competition to achieve genuine consumer traction? 

This year’s Boat Builder Awards, held in association with Raymarine and jointly organised by IBI and the RAI, looks to recognise those builder’s that have managed to kindle particular customer interest by offering something unique. Judges singled out four strong contenders across an array of boat sizes, mono- and multi-hull, power and sail designs, for the Breakthrough Launch of the Year award, sponsored by High Pressure Watermakers.

The four stand-out model launches to make the Awards final each their own attributes that take a notable step forward in their market segments.

Prestige Yachts’ M-Line. 

The M48 (48’) and M8 (68’) are innovative powercats in a growing segment. The M-Line ignored frequent practice of leaning on traditional architecture of sailing catamarans, choosing instead o start with a blank canvas to make the most of a motoryacht format spread across two hulls. Removing the constraints of the sailing catamaran means that the yacht can be narrower. The hull sides can be higher that allow the use of an entirely flat main space across the bridge deck that gives the Prestige M8 50m² of living space. In addition, the higher hull provides the space to put a 30m² full-beam owner’s cabin forward that would usually only feature on a 80’ monohull motoryacht.

The HH44 from HH Catamarans.

The HH44 is a disruptive new premium market entrant designed for those seeking the perfect balance of style, performance, safety and innovation. The electrified and carbon reinforced HH44 is a game changing, eco-friendly cruising yacht, poised to win the hearts and minds of early tech adopters, world cruisers and serious sailors alike. Designed from the ground up for electrification and to maximize the size of the 4.2kW solar array, the helm stations are moved aft to free up the coach roof. Folding transoms enhance safety at sea and open at anchor to increase living space and provide an easy connection with the water. Helms rotate in and out for protection, visibility, and an enhanced sailing experience. Forward windows open vertically to increase air flow and interior comfort. C-shaped daggerboards provide vertical lift and impressive upwind sailing performance. 

Superhawk 55 from Sunseeker.

Sunseeker developed a new open-top boat with a sleek exterior profile, exquisite detailing, and exciting innovations. Powered by twin Volvo Penta D11 - IPS 950 engines matched with a hull form specifically designed for the IPS propulsion system, the Superhawk 55 is capable of a thrilling performance with unparalleled agility. Recent Sunseeker models have shown much attention to the driving experience and here helming takes place from the centre-line triple helm amidships, a sociable, effective design. Complete with dual glassbridge display screens, charging pads and chrome multi-purpose dials, the console is well-equipped for all requirements. This is all sat behind a stainless-capped, single curved windscreen that offers completely uninterrupted views and protection from the elements. Side deck access sits forward, adjacent to the helm, with pantograph doors to port and starboard delivering effortless walk-around access, a feature typical of a much larger yacht.
The open-ended aft features a sun pad with integrated water toys stowage under an electrically opening hatch. The tender garage located beneath the sun pad houses a Williams MiniJet, complete with a hydraulic rolling tender launch and recovery system. Altogether this new layout delivers a package worthy of resurrecting a famous Sunseeker model name.

TYDE - The Icon

The Icon made its debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2023, and has left an indelible mark, captivating clients, industry experts, and the press with its striking aesthetics and unparalleled onboard experience. Its foiling system, born from America’s Cup expertise, offers effortless handling and impeccable control. The advanced flight control system scans the sea’s surface, ensuring both safety and performance, whilst skimming the surface it reduces drag and enhances speed. The new thinking behind the brand is no where more evident than at the digital helm. The Icon features a 32-inch touch display with 6k resolution and an integrated computer architecture. Voice control simplifies the user experience, a real breakthrough in the marine industry.

Each nomination had distinct merits and won plaudits from the judging panel - deciding which constituted the biggest genuine breakthrough made this one of the toughest categories to judge. 

Don’t miss out on being in the audience when the winner is revealed at the Boat Builder Awards gala dinner at the Maritime Museum in Amsterdam in three weeks’ time.

The 2023 Boat Builder Awards is running on Thursday 16 November this year for the first time – the second night of METSTRADE. Individual tickets are priced at just €300 plus VAT with tables of ten at €3000 plus VAT. You can purchase tickets online here or for further information please visit www.ibinews.com/bba2023/tickets