world superyacht awards 2023 nominees

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Celebrating Excellence: A Recap of the 2023 World Superyacht Awards and the Winning Yachts

The world of superyachts recently witnessed a celebration of maritime excellence at the prestigious 2023 World Superyacht Awards. This annual event recognizes and honors the most exceptional yachts in the industry, showcasing their design, innovation, and unrivaled craftsmanship. This article delves into the 2023 World Superyacht Awards and highlights and explores the victorious yachts, including Kensho, Come Together, Athos, and Unknown. Join us as we embark on a journey through the seas of luxury and marvel at the ingenuity of these award-winning vessels.

2023’s World Superyacht Awards Winners Revealed

Kenshō – motor yacht of the year.

75.2m Kenshō was awarded the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year award.

One of the standout winners of the 2023 World Superyacht Awards was Kensho, a true embodiment of elegance and innovation. Designed by renowned naval architect Espen Øino, and built by Lürssen, Kensho captivated the judges with its striking exterior lines and exceptional performance. This remarkable yacht offers luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art amenities, and a seamless blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Kensho’s award victory is a testament to its unparalleled craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Kenshō is available for yacht charters in the West Mediterranean during the 2023 Summer season (homeport Cannes) and private charters in the Caribbean during the 2023/2024 Winter season (homeport Antigua).

2023 High Rate: €1,000,000 per week / 2023 Low Rate: €850,000 per week

COME TOGETHER – The Best Displacement Yacht

60m Come Together was awarded the best displacement yacht in the size category.

Another awe-inspiring winner at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards was Come Together, a yacht pushing luxury and design’s boundaries. Created by Feadship and featuring the brilliant work of Reymond Langton Design, Come Together is a true masterpiece. The yacht’s unique exterior profile and the exceptional attention to detail throughout its interior spaces impressed the judges, securing its place as one of the winners. Come Together offers a sublime retreat on the water, combining opulence, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.

Come Together is based in Antibes and operates in the Mediterranean Sea during the 2023 Summer season. The yacht is available for yacht charters in the Bahamas during the winter.

2023 High Rate: €550,000 per week / 2023 Low Rate: €450,000 per week

ATHOS – The Best Refitted Yacht

Handpicked by its discerning owner for its graceful aesthetics, exceptional sailing capabilities, and capacity to circumnavigate the globe, the 63.4m Athos underwent a comprehensive refit that further elevated these remarkable qualities. Its elegant lines were meticulously enhanced, ensuring a seamless harmony between form and function. With a sailing experience that brings guests closer to the water, Athos invites exploration of the world’s most captivating destinations while embodying the spirit of adventure and discovery.

This remarkable sailing superyacht, built by Holland Jachtbouw, captivated the judges with its awe-inspiring performance and exquisite craftsmanship. Designed by Hoek Design, Athos seamlessly blends classic lines with modern features, offering an unparalleled experience on the water. With its spacious deck areas, luxurious interiors, and advanced sailing capabilities, Athos represents the pinnacle of sailing yacht excellence.

The homeport of Athos for the 2023’s summer is Vancouver, BC, and it will cruise the West Coast of North America (Not available for charter in the US or Canada).

2023 High Rate: $235,000 per week / 2023 Low Rate: $220,000 per week

UNKNOWN – The Best Displacement Motor Yacht 499gt and below

In a stunning display of ingenuity and craftsmanship, the renowned Italian shipyard, Benetti, emerged victorious at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards with their exceptional yacht, “Unknown.” Securing the esteemed Best Displacement Motor Yacht 499gt and below, this remarkable vessel captivated judges and enthusiasts with its unparalleled design, luxurious amenities, and outstanding performance.

Benetti’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation shines through in every aspect of this remarkable vessel. From its graceful exterior lines to meticulously crafted interiors, “Unknown” combines elegance, functionality, and cutting-edge technology seamlessly.

2023 High Rate: €150,000 per week / 2023 Low Rate: €128,000 per week

The Highlights of the 2023 World Superyacht Awards

The 2023 World Superyacht Awards served as a platform to honor and recognize the crème de la crème of the yachting world. From the visionary design of Kensho and Come Together to Athos’s unrivaled sailing prowess and Unknown innovation, these award-winning yachts stand as testaments to the superyacht industry’s exceptional craftsmanship and limitless possibilities. As we celebrate their victories, we are reminded of the continuous pursuit of perfection and the incredible experiences these yachts offer to those who embark on their remarkable journeys.

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Charter yachts take honors at the World Superyacht Awards 2023

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By Nina Done   23 May 2023

The 18th edition of the World Superyacht Awards kicked off with cocktails in Turkey ’s vibrant capital, Istanbul over the weekend, and saw an impressive selection of charter yachts win a coveted Neptune trophy during the exclusive prize-giving ceremony. 

The annual black-tie gala dinner event celebrates the world’s finest superyachts of the year, recognising and rewarding ingenuity and craftsmanship in the design, engineering and construction of the luxury yachts. 

Using a secret ballot system by an independent judging panel made up of experienced superyacht owners, the World Superyacht Awards are the only peer-reviewed yachting awards in the world.

Hosted at the elegant Mandarin Oriental along the glittering shoreline of the Bosphorus, the elite of the superyacht world, owners and industry leaders gathered to celebrate this year’s event where 15 Neptunes were up for grabs, including the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year and Sailing Yacht of the Year awards. 

In an event that saw 49 nominees fight it out across 15 categories, charter yachts were awarded trophies in 7 of the categories. Here are the charter yachts that picked up a trophy at this year’s World Superyacht Awards;

Winner: Motor Yacht of the Year

Scooping the top award of the evening, the striking 75m (247ft) Admiral superyacht KENSHÕ was declared the winner by a comfortable margin, having wowed the judges with her owner-driven attributes, charter-focused amenities, high ceilings and Zen-calm interiors. She has also been lauded for her innovative engineering, harvesting power from five variable-speed generators using a diesel-electric propulsion system.

Winner: Best rebuilt Yacht

Following an extensive refit over two and a half years at the Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth, UK , the 59m (193ft) classic yacht MARALA – originally built by Camper & Nicholsons in 1931 – has been lovingly restored to her former glory. Judges were impressed by the meticulous work undertaken to preserve her period features while paying homage to her fascinating storied history, such as her time in military service. Her interiors have also been given the full treatment, with a distinct nod to the avant-garde design influences of the era that can be seen throughout her interior spaces and accommodation.

Winner: Best Refitted Yacht

Catching the judges’ eye, they felt the arresting 63-meter schooner yacht ATHOS merited this coveted accolade chiefly for the exceptionally high-quality work undertaken by Royal Huisman ’s refit yard in Amsterdam. Under the supervision of her original architect, Andre Hoek, ATHOS was given new booms, sails and lightweight carbon-fiber rigging, as well as an extended stern to accommodate a larger cockpit adjoining the new owner's cabin, and newly repositioned navigation station. 

Winner: Sailing Yachts, 30m to 49.9m

Built in Cape Town by Southern Wind Shipyard in 2022, the 35m (114ft) sailing yacht SØRVIND has already enjoyed a slew of nominations for her interior design, naval architecture and outstanding exteriors, so it might not come as a huge surprise that she scooped the Sailing Yacht gong in her category after impressing judges by her high-performance capabilities, charter-focused amenities, Scandi-cool interiors and highly practical accommodation layout. 

Winner: Displacement Motor Yachts 499 GT and Below, 30m to 39.9m

Benetti 's Oasis 34M yacht UNKNOWN is certainly no unsung wallflower, garnering a raft of accolades since her arrival onto the scene in 2022 that lauded her strong connection with water and nature through her extensive glazing, harmonious indoor/outdoor areas and the Italian yard's award-winning Oasis Deck®. This is precisely what inspired the judges, who admired the yacht’s open aft beach club spanning across two decks, culminating in the infinity pool that straddles two levels, and additional sense of space created by her fold-down bulwarks – deployed for guests to enjoy while at anchor. They were also impressed by the number of alfresco relaxation and entertainment areas peppered across her deck spaces, which they considered truly remarkable for her size category and worthy of a Neptune.

Judges’ Commendation: Displacement Motor Yachts 499 GT and Below, 40m to 44.9m

Deemed by the judges as “an enviable all-rounder”, the 44m (145ft) yacht ACE has certainly proved a standout contender since her launch earlier this year. Built by the up-and-coming Conrad Shipyard in Poland, the judges admired the yacht for her striking good looks, convivial crew areas and technical engineering features. Already a finalist in her category at the International Yacht and Aviation Awards 2023, superyacht ACE also wowed the WSA judges with her generous proportions, reimagined deck spaces and elegant interiors. 

Winner: Displacement Motor Yachts, 500 GT to 1,499 GT

Come together.

It was inevitable that the successful pairing of the esteemed Espen Øino and Damen Yachting would end up scooping an award for their geometrically striking yachts that turn heads wherever they cruise, with the Amels 60 Limited Edition yacht COME TOGETHER proving no exception. Renowned for their next-generation design culture, Damen have been instrumental in creating yachts that not only deliver on space and luxurious comfort but also harnessing a raft of sustainable features, which ultimately won over the judges. Notable features include the seamless blend between Winch Design’s masculine interior scheme with Espen Øino’s angular and geometric exterior styling, the yacht’s innovative sundeck layout and hybrid-propulsion technology. 

Judges’ Special Awards

Coral ocean.

Narrowly missing out on the Best Refit Award, the judges had been so impressed by her transformative upgrade that they felt the vast 73m (238ft) superyacht CORAL OCEAN deserved one of their special awards. Suitably impressed by her charter-rich amenities, the Lürssen yacht now features an entirely rebuilt sundeck, with sumptuous loungers and a glass-bottomed spa pool adjoining a central deckhouse housing an informal dining area, bar and TV lounge, with an integrated state-of-the-art sound system creating the perfect day to night party hub. Originally designed by the award-winning London-based studio Bannenberg and Rowell, the superyacht's styling now offers a neutral scheme with subtle color accents and Art Deco-inspired geometric motifs throughout.

The World Superyacht Awards will be back again next year to herald another superb selection of superyachts. 

If you would like to learn more about chartering an award-winning superyacht, please reach out to your yacht charter broker .

Instagram credits: @fraseryachts & @njordbybergman

Featured award-winning superyachts available for charter

136m Lurssen 2019

105m Oceanco 2018

95m Lurssen 2019

84m Feadship 2015 / 2020

85m SilverYachts 2019

77m Damen Yachting 2020

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World Superyacht Awards 2023 nominees revealed

Apr 17, 2023 | News

Each year the World Superyacht Awards recognise the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the most remarkable superyachts from across the globe. Now in its 18th edition, take a look at the nominees for the 2023 World Superyacht Awards, in association with AKYACHT. The winners will be revealed during an exclusive ceremony held in Istanbul, Turkey (19-20 May 2023). For more information about the programme please email  [email protected] . 

Read more – Boatinternational

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Three Finalists nominations at World Superyacht Awards 2023

Boat International has announced the Finalists for the World Superyacht Awards 2023.The winners will be revealed during an exclusive ceremony held in Istanbul, Turkey (19-20 May 2023). We are proud and happy to share the news that Omega has been nominated as finalist for three designs:

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• Winners of World Superyacht Awards 2023 Announced
• News & Events

• May 30, 2023

The recipients of the esteemed accolades at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards have been unveiled, divulging the remarkable victors in various esteemed categories. 

Kenshō, the recipient of the prestigious Motor Yacht of the Year award at the 2023 World Superyacht Awards, emerged victorious from a pool of remarkable contenders in the Semi-Displacement and Displacement Motor Yacht classes. Through an extensive evaluation process, Kenshō, meaning “seeing one’s true nature” in Japanese, triumphed decisively, owing to its distinctive qualities driven by the discerning owner’s vision. 

The yacht’s meticulous design, curated after the owner’s visits to prominent vessels worldwide, resulted in noteworthy features such as elevated deckheads, serene room volumes, minimized side decks, and the absence of a main saloon. 

Alea, a remarkable sailing yacht designed by Germán Mani Frers and impeccably built by Vitters, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of Sailing Yacht of the Year at the esteemed World Superyacht Awards 2023. Alea emerged triumphant due to her exceptional design tailored to her owner’s specific desires. 

Frers’ ingenuity manifested in a powerful and streamlined hull, featuring a distinct reverse bow to enhance waterline length and speed while maintaining comfortable sailing angles.

Marala, a timeless motor yacht originally crafted by Camper & Nicholsons in 1931, has garnered unanimous acclaim as the outstanding winner in the Rebuild class. Following an extensive two-and-a-half-year reconstruction at Pendennis Shipyard in Falmouth, Marala’s original essence was painstakingly revitalized by stripping away previous modifications.

With over 100 tonnes of steel replaced, primarily in the unfaired hull to preserve its authentic appearance, Marala underwent meticulous enhancements in stability, services, and power systems, ensuring her preservation as a cherished maritime treasure. 

The World Superyacht Awards 2023 also celebrated a host of other remarkable winners, including Atho s in the Refitted Yachts category, Sørvind in the Sailing Yachts segment for vessels ranging from 30m to 49.9m, and Alea for Sailing Yachts measuring 50m and above. 

Blue Jeans triumphed in the Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts class for yachts spanning 30m to 34.9m, while Rus h emerged victorious in the 35m to 41.9m category, and Callisto claimed the coveted title in the 42m and above division. In the realm of Displacement Motor Yachts, Unknown claimed victory in the 30m to 39.9m range, Acal a secured the accolade for yachts measuring 40m to 44.9m, and Ocean Z triumphed in the 45m and above category within the 499GT and below classification. 

Notably, Come Togethe r emerged as the victor in the Displacement Motor Yachts division for vessels ranging from 500GT to 1,499GT, while Kenshō claimed the crown in the 1,500GT and above category. Additional distinguished awards included the Voyager’s Award presented to V6 , the Legacy Award bestowed upon Rahmi M. Koç , and Judges’ Special Awards granted to Shinkai, Coral Ocean , and Nebula , signifying their extraordinary contributions to the superyacht industry.

The 2023 World Superyacht Awards has thus heralded the celebration of worthy maritime achievements, each signifying a hallmark of extraordinary yacht craftsmanship and design. From distinguished motor yachts to groundbreaking sailing vessels, these remarkable recipients have set a new benchmark in superyacht standards. 

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World Superyacht Awards 2023 nominees revealed

⁣⁣Each year the Boat International World Superyacht Awards recognise the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the most remarkable superyachts from across the globe. Now in its 18th edition, take a look at the nominees for the 2023 World Superyacht Awards, in association with AKYACHT. The winners will be revealed during an exclusive ceremony held in Istanbul, Turkey (19-20 May 2023).

This year 4 yachts we have been working on as Naval Architect have been nominated:

Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 30m to 34.99m

BLUE JEANS 33.74m | Van der Valk Shipyard | Diana Yacht Design | Guido de Groot

Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 35m to 41.99m

BOTTI 36.3m | Mooen Yachts, Diana Yacht Design | Rene van der Velden Design | Studio Indigo Ltd.

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 30m to 39.99m

LADY FLEUR 32.65m | X-Treme Yachts | Diana Yacht Design | Bernd Weel Design | Trimm Design

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 40m to 44.99m

ACE 44.27m | Conrad Shipyard | Diana Yacht Design | Reymond Langton Desing | M2Atelier<

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In the August 2024 issue of Yachting World magazine: News Few finish a tempestuous Round The Island Race European rules are eased for cruising to France and Greece Olympic sailing…

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Best yacht 2023: European yacht of the year winners

• Toby Hodges
• January 21, 2023

The European Yacht of the Year 2023 winners have been announced and comprise the best yacht winners in five categories including a special mention award. Toby Hodges was one of the 12 jury members who test sailed each of the 21 shortlisted yachts before deciding on the winners.

The European Yacht of the Year programme is a highlight of my year as it gives us  jury members the opportunity to assemble our shortlist of the best nominees, seatrial each and every one of them and discuss what works and what doesn’t at sea and in port, in order to choose the best yacht of 2023 in a variety of categories. Our trials were held in La Rochelle and Port Ginesta, Barcelona over the autumn of 2022.

This is the 20th anniversary of the European Yacht of the Year awards, which were presented at a gala event on the opening evening of the Boot Düsseldorf Boat Show on 21 January 2023.

Together we comprise 12 magazines across Europe, each the leading voice on boat testing in their respective countries. The result is indisputably the most thorough, impartial and respected awards programme for new production yachts worldwide.

Best yacht 2023

Best performance yacht.

Nominees: Elan E6 ; Beneteau First 36 ; Grand Soleil 40 ; Italia Y 12.98; Solaris 50

Three Italian pure performance cruisers and two very different yachts built in Slovenia made for a varied and exciting Performance category. Where once we could assume a cruiser-racer was a fairly standard format design, over the last decade it’s been much more the sexy fast cruisers the Italian yards specialise in. But as French yards like Pogo and JPK have proven, we salute lightweight planing yachts – and the Beneteau First 36 is the first real production yacht in that spirit.

Winner: Beneteau First 36

Here’s a yacht that puts the focus firmly back into sailing. The First 36 has been kept inviting and approachable – unlike many yachts that can plane, the look is modest, not aggressive. It’s uncomplicated, unfussy and the result is a pleasure for all to sail. It’s more about what you can’t see, the design and engineering, which should ensure longterm demand.

The small, fiddly heads compartment and lack of tiller options are perhaps the only real detraction from an otherwise brilliant collaboration by Seascape and Beneteau, from concept to build quality.

It was their goal to keep this area of the market relevant and prove a mainstream brand can do it, rather than only niche specialist yards. To create a mass produced yacht at this weight and to this foam-cored quality and one that can bring so much fun is a feather in the cap of the First brand.

Price: (ex VAT) €238,813

Jury comments:

“The complete universal cruiser-racer.” Pasi Nuutinen, Fin.

“The truly modern fast cruiser that dares to be different and that not enough yards dare to build.” Jochen Rieker, Germany.

“Fast but easy going, precise but not nervous, and lightweight, yet comfortable.” Marinus van Sijdenborgh de Jong, Netherlands.

Best Luxury Yacht

Nominees: Oceanis Yachts 60 ; Oyster 495 ; Ice 62 Targa

A spacious production yacht, a premium bluewater cruiser and a highly customised Italian performance cruiser shows the variety on offer in the 50-60ft+ market, while giving the jury some tricky comparisons to make.

Winner: Oyster 495

It is hard to imagine that the decor of a yacht can change its look and feel quite this much, yet the layout of this second 495, Eddie Jordan’s dramatic looking Tuga , is in fact identical to the first boat that I spent several days aboard last summer. At its heart is a wonderfully (Humphreys) designed and engineered luxury bluewater cruiser conceived from the ground up, built in a new dedicated facility to a repeatable quality very few yards are capable of.

The 495 offers consistent passage making speeds in real voluminous comfort – whether enjoyed from the deep cockpit or the best-in-class aft cabin. Deck stowage and mechanical space is also superb. Then factor in the family appeal of Oyster’s after sales and world rally programme and you start to appreciate the premium world this sub 50-footer gives access to.

Price: (ex VAT) £1.35m

Jury comments

“So reassuringly strong, so surprisingly quick in straight line speed, so great to helm, so easy to handle and so, so comfortable if you want to retreat to her living quarters!” Jochen Rieker, Germany

“A true blue water cruiser that makes no compromise in terms of comfort, safety or sailing abilities.” Loic Madeline, France

“The entry level of the Oyster range brings with it the build quality and customisation typical of the yard’s largest models… perfect for a couple’s globetrotting dreams.” Alberto Mariotti, Italy

Best Family Yacht

Nominees: Bente 28; Dufour 37 ; Linjett 39

Typically this category brims with midsize cruising yachts from mainstream manufacturers. And while the Dufour flies that flag, when you put these three nominees together you have a diverse selection of interesting new cruising yachts from 30-40ft to suit significantly different budgets.

Winner: Linjett 39

If you haven’t heard of Linjett before, prepare to be impressed. The 39 offers easy fast family cruising and occasional racing in luxurious comfort and proves that classic needn’t be old fashioned.

Linjett exudes Scandi heritage: a third generation 50-year old brand, it’s run by three brothers and has built 900 yachts from its 19th Century Rosättra yard in Sweden. Sturdy and stable the 39 instils instant confidence and proved a delight to sail. The Linjett is set up to easily shorthand it too, with two winches and a bank of clutches each side positioned aft in reach of the helm.

The interior is offered with two or three cabins and the latter we saw had an excellent layout, including separate shower/wet hanging compartment aft. The joiner work is first class, with traditional mahogany used as standard, or the more contemporary European Oak on the test boat.

This is a premium yacht, but you get what you pay for. It will surprise most and ensure everyone steps ashore smiling.

Price: (ex VAT) SEK 4,208,000 (approx €400,000)

“Practically flawless yacht for offshore, coastal and archipelago cruising, peppered with a big spoonful of performance and a strong flavour of luxury,” Pasi Nuutinen, Finland

“Aesthetically immortal because it is impeccably designed and built with modern construction techniques.” Alberto Mariotti, Italy

“A fast luxury yacht that is also the best family yacht… timeless.” Axel Nissen-Lie, Norway

Best Catamaran

Nominees: Balance 482 ; Catana OC ; C-Cat 48 ; Excess 14; Fountaine Pajot Aura 51 ; Lagoon 51; Nautitech 44 Open

What started out as two separate multihull categories – Family and Performance – merged into one once the jury appreciated the boundaries are quite blurred and that some of these catamarans belong in both camps.

All seven of these 40-50-footers merit close scrutiny for anyone after space and cruising comfort. The decision lies with how much you tweak the performance:comfort ratio.

Winner: Nautitech Open 44

We saw a good, interesting battle of the aft helm cruising cats this year in the Excess 14 and the Nautitech. For those who cite a lack of visibility and protection as reasons not to choose this route, try sailing this boat! Direct steering brings so much more helming pleasure – you get the enjoyable feeling and communication more associated with a monohull. I consider this 44 Open to be the ideal size to go distance sailing, with good performance, low draught and space for family and friends.

The interior design is smart and inviting – not as voluminous as some, but certainly enough to be smugly comfortable at anchor. Out of all the multihulls nominated or sailed in the last year, this cat impressed me the most.

Price: €560,800 ex VAT. (€818k ex VAT as tested).

Jury Comments

“This is a catamaran that makes the heart beat out at sea rather than at a boat show.” Axel Nissen-Lie, Norway

“Sailing sensation sets the Nautitech apart. She’s delightfully sensitive in light wind and gets more and more convincing with speed – which she picks up to very decent numbers.” Pasi Nuutinen, Finland

“This shows why the desire for catamaran sailing is spreading: It combines the comfort of two hulls with the good sailing characteristics of a modern yacht.”  Lori Schüpbach, Sui

Best Specialist Yacht

Nominees: Astus 22.5 ;  Ecoracer 25; Ace 30

Always the most diverse category, once again this did not disappoint with its contenders comprising a plywood IRC scow, a trailable trimaran and a recyclable sportsboat!

Special mention: Sustainability – Ecoracer 25

A reusable, recyclable prototype competitive sportsboat. If a ‘garage project’ such as this can successfully prove that the use of more sustainable materials, such as thermoplastic resins, linen fibre, basalt and recyclable carbon, are a viable solution for boatbuilding already, there is no excuse why the mainstream production yards shouldn’t already be employing them!

While most fibre-reinforced boats are destined for landfill, here the composites can be separated from the resin after immersion in a solvent, to make reusable composite products.

This is an on trend one-off racer, which at 1.1 tonnes and 2.7m beam can be towed when tilted and takes one hour from crane to sailing. It’s so much fun to sail, even in the lightest puffs, and won the ORC sportsboat class on Lake Garda on its debut season.

A shame it’s only a prototype, but the future looks bigger and brighter for this startup brand Northern Light Composites, with a 30ft version going into production. Congratulations on taking the initiative.

Price: Circa €80k

“Without changes the leisure boat market will be regulated and potentially fade away. The 100% recyclable Ecoracer 25 has shown that it’s possible to turn green for real.” Morten Brandt-Rasmussen, Denmark

“Shows that a technically complex sailboat can be built in a better way – without compromising on performance.” Axel Nissen-Lie, Norway

European Yacht of the Year Jury

Toby Hodges, Yachting World, GBR Jochen Rieker, YACHT, GER Loic Madeline, Voiles & Voiliers, FRA Pasi Nuutinen, Vene, FIN Roland Duller, YachtRevue, AUT Alberto Mariotti, Vela e Motore, ITA Morten Brandt-Rasmussen, Bådmagasinet, DEN Marinus van Sijdenborgh de Jong, Zeilen, NED Joakim Hermansson, Praktiskt Båtägande, SWE Axel Nissen-Lie, Seilmagasinet, NOR Diego Yriarte, Nautica Y Yates, ESP Lori Schüpbach, Marina.ch, SWI

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• Vanderbilt wins three Stevie Awards for sustainability work and People, Culture and Belonging

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Aug 26, 2024, 8:00 AM

Vanderbilt has won three Stevie Awards —the first time the university has been recognized by the world’s premier awards for business achievement. More than 3,600 international nominations were submitted in a wide range of categories.

The accolades include two recognitions from the Stevie International Business Awards , which accepts nominations worldwide from all individuals and organizations–large and small, public and private, for-profit and nonprofit:

• Silver , in the category of Achievement in Environment, Social and Government, for Vanderbilt’s commitment to carbon neutrality
• Bronze , in the category of Human Resources Department of the Year, for People, Culture and Belonging

Vanderbilt also received a Stevie Award for Great Employers , which recognizes the world’s best employers and the human resources professionals and achievements that help to create and drive great places to work:

• Bronze , in the category of Achievement in Workplace Health & Wellbeing, for the Office of Health, Wellbeing and Belonging in People, Culture and Belonging

Vanderbilt’s carbon neutrality initiative

In 2019 the university set a goal to power its campus entirely through renewable energy and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. As a result of collaboration with the campus community and outside partnerships, Vanderbilt first reached carbon neutrality in 2021—decades ahead of its original goal. The silver Stevie Award recognizes the programs and initiatives that paved the path for this achievement.

“We are proud and honored to have received this award—but as always, we are never satisfied,” said Eric Kopstain, vice chancellor for administration. “Even though we have achieved carbon neutrality, we will continue to assess our efforts and look for opportunities to further accelerate our sustainability goals.”

Vanderbilt’s innovative, collaborative sustainability work includes: 

• Launching an agreement with TVA and NES to build solar farms, opening the Vanderbilt I Solar Farm in April 2023, and offsetting its carbon footprint through a collaboration with Clearloop , which provides clean energy to homes in socioeconomically underinvested communities
• Using local ingredients in campus dining halls through partnerships with Tennessee farms and hydroponic tower gardens on campus
• Incentivizing sustainable commute habits, including free transit passes
• Building green, sustainable buildings , including 27 LEED-certified buildings, with more certifications to come
• Designing and launching a sustainable lab program in 2024
• Prioritizing community engagement, including the Wond’ry’s Climate Innovation Accelerator program, advancing climate solutions for minority-led nonprofits and small businesses

Learn more about Vanderbilt’s sustainability achievements and initiatives.

Vanderbilt’s advances in human resources, health and well-being

People, Culture and Belonging has redefined its focus to better align with the university’s mission of “daring to grow.” The division works to identify the moments that matter to the Vanderbilt community and to create experiences and systems that set new standards for human resource excellence.

“We’re deeply honored to have received these two Stevie Awards,” said Sydney Savion, vice chancellor for people, culture and belonging. “These awards are especially meaningful to us because we’re not competing against our peers; we’re competing against global conglomerates with unlimited resources. This is a big win for us. It’s our moment!”

The winning achievements for the category of Human Resources Department of the Year include: 

• Vanderbilt Voyage onboarding : A revamped orientation program that ensures a seamless transition for new staff, emphasizing “moments that matter”
• Curious Bar launch : Modeled after the Apple Genius Bar, it promotes continuous learning and innovation through personalized support for PCB services
• Digital magazine creation: The innovative new digital magazine illuminate enhances communication from the division

The winning achievements for the category of Workplace Health & Wellbeing include:

• Expanding financial wellness resources through the Employee Critical Support Fund and financial education opportunities
• Increasing the number of mental health and coaching sessions through Lyra from four to 12 annually for staff and their entire households and offering incentivized well-being resources through Virgin Pulse
• Documenting improvement of outcomes that measure the health of Vanderbilt faculty, staff and postdocs

Learn more about the programs and initiatives from PCB that helped earn these two awards.

Keep Reading

Vanderbilt greenhouse gas emissions drop 11 percent since last year and 35 percent since 2016, sustainability report shows

Vanderbilt continues carbon neutral collaboration with Clearloop, supporting rural West Tennessee solar farm

Dan Russell: Care for Community

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Planing yachts nominees line up for the World Superyacht Awards

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Written by Rachel Kelly

Planing yachts are generally faster and more agile than displacement yachts because they have less volume touching the water and have a v-shaped hull which creates lift. They are usually better suited to shorter voyages but use less power, increasing fuel efficiency.

The judges will cast their eye over every inch of the yachts in these three Planing categories.

Planing (or semi-displacement) Motor Yachts 40m +

M/Y FRANCESCA II | 49.9m (135’4”) | Baglietto| 2023

Motor yacht FRANCESCA II

Naval Architecture: Andrea Bacigalupo Exterior Design: Francesco Paszkowski Design Interior Design: Francesco Paszkowski Design

M/Y JIMMY | 52m (163’7”) | Tankoa Yachts | 2023

Motor yacht JIMMY

Naval Architecture: Studio Francesco Rogantin Exterior Design: Francesco Paszkowski Design Interior Design: Martin Hanff and owner

M/Y MILELE | 49.9m (148’3”) | Royal Hakvoort Shipyard | 2023

Motor yacht MILELE

Naval Architecture: Van Oossanen Naval Architects Exterior Design: Omega Architects Interior Design: Overmarine Group

M/Y RIVA 130 BELLISSIMA | 39.63m (130’) | Riva | 2023

Motor yacht RIVA 130 BELLISSIMA

Naval Architecture: Ferretti Engineering Department Exterior Design: Officina Italiana Design Interior Design: Officina Italiana Design

M/Y ULTRA G | 60m (196’8”) | Heesen Yachts | 202

Motor yacht ULTRA G

Naval Architecture: Heesen Yachts and Van Oossanen Naval Architects Exterior Design: Omega Architects Interior Design: Omega Architects

Planing (or semi-displacement) Motor Yachts 35m-39.9m

M/Y PERSHING GTX116 | 35.2m (115’4”) | Pershing | 2023

Motor yacht PERSHING GTX116

Naval Architecture: Ferretti Engineering Department Exterior Design: Fulvio De Simoni Interior Design: Fulvio De Simoni

M/Y QUEEN TATI | 37.4m (122’7”) | MCP Yachts | 2023

Motor yacht QUEEN TATI

Naval Architecture: Vripack Exterior Design: Vripack Interior Design: Vripack

M/Y SEAFLOWER | 36m (118’1”) | Mulder Shipyard | 2023

Motor yacht SEAFLOWER

Naval Architecture: Van Oossanen Naval Architects Exterior Design: Claydon Reeves Interior Design: Vickers Studio

M/Y SWEET DEBBIE | 35.5m (116’4”) | Ocean Alexander | 2023

Motor yacht SWEET DEBBIE

Naval Architecture: Ocean Alexander Exterior Design: Evan K. Marshall Interior Design: Evan K. Marshall

M/Y WRAITH | 37.1m (121’7”) | AB Yachts – Next Yacht Group | 2023

Motor yacht WRAITH

Naval Architecture: AB Yachts – Next Yacht Group Exterior Design: AB Yachts – Next Yacht Group Interior Design: AB Yachts – Next Yacht Group

Planing (or semi-displacement) Motor Yachts 30m-34.9m

M/Y MAJESTY III | 34.1m (111’8”) | Gulf Craft | 2024

Motor yacht MAJESTY III

Naval Architecture: Profjord Exterior Design: Phathom Studio Interior Design: Phathom Studio

M/Y MINI K2 | 30m (98’4”) | Extra Yachts | 2023

Motor yacht MINI K2

Naval Architecture: Jeff Leishman Exterior Design: Jeff Leishman Interior Design: Ardeo Design

M/Y NOMAD 101 | 30.8m (101’) | Gulf Craft | 2024

Motor yacht NOMAD 101

Naval Architecture: Wolstenholm Yacht Design Exterior Design: Gulf Craft Interior Design: Gulf Craft

M/Y PESA II | 34.99m (114’8”) | Maiora – Next Yacht Group | 2023

Motor yacht PESA II (sistership)

Naval Architecture: Maiora – Next Yacht Group Exterior Design: Maiora – Next Yacht Group Interior Design: Maiora – Next Yacht Group and owner

M/Y PILOT | 34.04m (111’7”) | Van Der Valk | 2023

Motor yacht PILOT

Naval Architecture: Ginton Naval Architects Exterior Design: Cor D. Rover Interior Design: André Fu

+++++++++++++++

Not long to go now before we hear the winners across all the World Superyacht Awards categories. We will finalise our overview of the nominees tomorrow with the Sailing Yachts which are looking to pick up an award.

Please contact CharterWorld - the luxury yacht charter specialist - for more on superyacht news item "Planing yachts nominees line up for the World Superyacht Awards".

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The 2022 World Superyacht Awards winners revealed

The winners of the 2022 World Superyacht Awards have been revealed. From the newly crowned Motor Yacht of the Year to the prestigious Voyager's Award, find out which yachts scooped this year's coveted Neptunes...

Motor Yacht of the Year - Viva Sailing Yacht of the Year - Perseverance 1 Refitted Yachts - Masquenada Rebuilt Yachts - Here Comes the Sun Sailing Yachts, 30m to 39.9m - Perseverance 1 Sailing Yachts, 40m and above - Path Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 30m to 34.9m - Offline Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 35m to 39.9m - Koju Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 40m and above - Annabella Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and below, 30m to 44.9m - Emocean Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and below, 45m and above - Alisa Displacement Motor Yachts, 500GT to 999GT - Somnium Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,000GT to 1,499GT - Triumph Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,500GT to 1,999GT - Vanish Displacement Motor Yachts, 2,000GT and above - Viva Voyager’s Award - Asteria Legacy Award - Herb Chambers

JUDGES’ SPECIAL AWARD WINNERS

Rebuilt Yachts – Kalizma Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 40m and above - Gene Chaser Voyager’s Award - Seahawk

JUDGES’ COMMENDATION WINNERS

Semi-Displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 30m to 34.9m - Lady Lene Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and below, 45m and above - Al Waab

Motor Yacht of the Year: Viva

Length 94m Builder Feadship Naval architect De Voogt Naval Architects Exterior design Studio De Voogt & Azure Yacht Design Interior design Peter Marino

In selecting the winner of the coveted Motor Yacht of the Year award, the judges were faced with the task of choosing a single yacht from the nine individual winners of the Semi-Displacement and Displacement Motor Yacht classes. After lengthy debate, the secret ballot revealed Viva to be the winner by a large margin and while many factors influenced this decision, it was Viva ’s consistency in all aspects of the judgement that took her into the lead. Such all-round excellence, the judges felt, was largely due to the detailed consideration given to every aspect of the vessel during her 12-year gestation period, a time when the owner’s knowledge and complete involvement with specifications paid dividends. As a result, this yacht has it all, from an attractive exterior design with superb deck spaces to an enviable beach club and a modern interior that connects with the outside through huge windows, plus a general arrangement plan entirely suited to the needs of the owner, guests and crew. Viva also lacks nothing on the technical and operational side. Her sustainably-minded power and propulsion system, optimal technical areas, a practical tender garage, excellent living and working facilities for her crew, and a superlative quality of build sets her apart as a very special yacht and a worthy winner of the 2022 Motor Yacht of the Year Award.

Sailing Yacht of the Year: Perseverance 1

Length 35.8m   Builder Baltic Yachts   Naval architect Dykstra Naval Architects Exterior design Dykstra Naval Architects Interior design deVosdeVries design

The title of Sailing Yacht of the Year is awarded to the yacht that is considered by the judges to be the most notable of the class winners in this year’s sailing yacht categories. These two winners were the 44.6-metre sloop Path , built by Baltic Yachts in Finland to the design of Bremerhaven-based judel/vrolijk & co design and Engineering, and the smaller 35.8 metre Perseverance 1 , from the drawing board of the Netherlands-based Dykstra Naval Architects and also built by Baltic Yachts with interior design by deVosdeVries Design. Both yachts were conceived as fast cruisers with the aim of circumnavigating the globe in stages and, as their owners both invested a great deal of thought and experience into their designs, choosing the winner was a difficult task for the judges. During discussions it was clear that although the judges admired Path as an enviably well-built and designed cruiser/racer, and praised her for her significant use of solar power, they narrowly selected the smaller Perseverance 1 as the Sailing Yacht of the Year. This was largely due to the more single-minded “keep it simple” approach to cruising remote areas that drove the design of Perseverance 1 , along with her attractive combination of traditional looks with exceptional sailing performance. Additionally, she was praised for her efficient diesel-electric propulsion system and well-integrated technology that takes her batteries to full charge in just 4.5 hours and permits eight to nine hours of silent running at anchor.

Refitted Yachts: Masquenada

Length 51m Original builder Penglai-Bohai Refit yard Lusben Refit naval architect Names by Francesco Rogantin Refit exterior design Nauta Design Refit interior design Misa Poggi

For this class, all yachts are entered into the Refit/Rebuild category, and having reviewed the photographs and read the statements submitted with each entry, the jury decides whether the degree of work justifies it being a refit or a rebuild. In general terms, if the work is commensurate with a five- to 10-year refit, without significant metal being cut, the yacht is usually judged in the Refit category. Some interesting refits were entered, but it was the 51.2-metre Masquenada that caught the judges’ eyes. In planning for a world cruise, her owner had originally commissioned the design of a 55- to 60-metre custom explorer with Nauta Design, but finding that the earliest delivery time did not meet his cruising plans, Nauta suggested the purchase of an existing, highly seaworthy vessel that, following upgrades, would fit his expectations. This classically elegant explorer had started life in 2007 before changing hands and being extensively refitted in 2018. The sale was negotiated and, renamed Masquenada , she started her refit at Lusben Shipyard to the designs of Nauta and Misa Poggi to ready her for a planned world cruise. The main deck aft, previously encumbered with tenders and their launching crane, was redesigned as an outdoor lounge with easy connectivity with the sea, while the new crane was concealed beneath the deck, now reinforced for a seven-tonne helicopter, and the bridge and upper decks were lengthened by 1.5 metres to improve liveability. Accessibility to the main saloon was improved and upgrades were carried out in the master suite, while three new gensets were installed in the engine room, where noise and vibration were also reduced.

Rebuilt Yachts: Here Comes the Sun

Length 89m Original builder Amels Rebuild yard Damen Yachting Rebuild naval architect Damen Yachting & Azure Yacht Design Rebuild exterior design Tim Heywood Rebuild interior design Winch Design

As with the Refitted Yachts category, the judges review all photographs and statements submitted with each entry and decide whether the degree of work justifies it as a Refit or a Rebuild. If a meaningful amount of metal has been cut or replaced, it generally means that the yacht will be in the Rebuild class. Of the yachts having undergone significant metalwork, the standout winner was Here Comes the Sun , a 89-metre motor yacht built by Amels (Damen Yachting) and rebuilt by the same shipyard. This is a much-loved family yacht, and the owner’s intent for the rebuild was to maintain the relevance of its facilities to his family, which spans three generations. This necessarily called for additional length, but he was clear that the extension should not be obvious and, where possible, the original interior by Winch Design should remain. But this extension was just the tip of the iceberg of this massive remodelling exercise: two splendid VIP cabins were added, with new balconies accessed through curved sliding doors; the bulwarks were lowered; a seven-metre swimming pool with twin swim-jets inserted flush with the main deck aft was installed; a helideck was added to the sundeck; the beach club was reworked; the master suite remodelled with a new open-plan bath and dressing room; the crew mess and lounge were revised; tenders and toys replaced; and the whole yacht had a stunning new paint job. In the judges’ view, the result was superb, meeting all the owner’s requests in stylish fashion, while the additional length not only blended seamlessly with her lines, but adds to the undoubted elegance of this yacht.

Judges’ Special Award: Kalizma

Length 50.3m Original builder Ramage & Ferguson Rebuild yard West Coast Marine Yacht Services Rebuild naval architect GL Watson Rebuild exterior design Ferguson Brothers Rebuild interior design Palazzo Morelli

A true classic motor yacht built by Ramage & Ferguson in Leith, Scotland in 1906 as Minona , Kalizma was owned by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in the 1970s and 80s. In the last few years, however, she had suffered neglect and was bought for a song by her current owner, who restored the vessel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with the help of Aashim Mongia, whose Mumbai-based company West Coast Marine Yacht Services carried out restoration work in 2006. This latest, beautifully executed restoration was undertaken by painters and joiners flown in from Mumbai, together with specialists from Spain and Portugal, bringing Kalizma back to life. The judges considered that she was more than worthy of a Special Award.

Sailing Yachts, 30m to 39.9m: Perseverance 1

Length 35.8m Builder Baltic Yachts Naval architect Dykstra Naval Architects Exterior design Dykstra Naval Architects Interior design deVosdeVries design

In this class, the judges were presented with four sailing yachts of eminently comparable size, two of which were optimised for performance and two for fast-cruising comfort. The secret ballot that followed was, however, quite decisive, and it was Perseverance 1 , with naval architecture and exterior design by Dykstra Naval Architects, interior by deVosdeVries design and construction by Baltic Yachts that secured the Neptune by a significant margin. In his statement submitted for the Judges’ Dossier, the owner told us that he had wanted a “traditional-looking yacht with modern sailing characteristics that would perform well in light weather and undertake long passages in comfort”, and the judges felt that he had achieved just that. The advanced carbon-composite construction of her deckhouses is concealed by a 6mm skin of oiled teak to maintain the appearance of a traditional pilot cutter: fast working vessels that, in times past, raced to secure pilotage duties in the Bristol Channel. The judges were impressed by the ease of control of her sailing systems, particularly the furling – the result of co-operation between the mast and boom makers – and the advanced hybrid propulsion and power system. These enable her to sail without running generators given sufficient wind, while in unfavourable conditions and at anchor she need only run them for four and a half hours per day – and then at their most economical speed.

Sailing Yachts, 40m and Above: Path

Length 44.6m Builder Baltic Yachts Naval architect judel/vrolijk & co Exterior design judel/vrolijk & co Interior design judel/vrolijk & co

The Sailing Yachts class contained one boat whose size was such that the judges decided it would have been difficult, if not unfair, to compare it with the four significantly smaller sailing yachts whose similar size demanded a class of their own. This yacht, Path , is a long-range bluewater cruising yacht conceived by an experienced owner who had circumnavigated on his previous yacht, a 34 metre. The judges considered Path a state-of-the-art cruiser that will fully satisfy the owner’s ambition to make another circumnavigation in the company of his three-generation family. The owner’s background of competitive racing drew him to ask performance-oriented naval architects judel/vrolijk to undertake the entire design, which would be built by Baltic Yachts, another performance-oriented company. In the owner’s words, it was not only to be a “home from home, but also a modern mobile office and a safe family environment”. A safely sheltered cockpit, well separated from the sailing functions, is on the same level as the deck saloon, the foredeck is uncluttered around the central tender bay, while her interior shares traditional panelling with clean modern design. For ease of maintenance in remote areas, the propulsion and power systems are, like the sailplan, relatively straightforward, but the judges noted her significant solar array that at its peak can deliver an impressive 8kW, thus minimising fuel consumption. The judges view was that this state-of-the-art cruising yacht was well up to the standard of previous winners of this class and were unanimous in their decision that she should be awarded a prestigious Neptune.

Semi-displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 30m to 34.9m: Offline

Length 31.8m Builder Overmarine Group Naval architect Overmarine Group Exterior design Igor Lobanov Interior design Overmarine Group

All five yachts in this class were of similar size, and while this made detailed comparison easier, the unvarying quality of the entries and their disparate characteristics still made the task of choosing the winner difficult for the judges. During discussions it soon became apparent that the judges’ focus was spread right across the field, but when put to ballot, it was the sporty good looks and the less extreme, single-skin GRP construction of this 31.8-metre Mangusta 105 REV that topped the field by a small margin. With build and naval architecture carried out in-house by the Overmarine Group, both the exterior and interior design came from the board of Barcelona-based Lobanov Design with input from Overmarine. Their experience in the design of this style of fast vessel was clearly visible throughout, particularly in the bridge, where Offline ’s layout and exterior visibility were excellent, and in the compact, functionally laid out engine room, where a pair of MTU 3,878kW diesels powering twin KaMeWa waterjets will take her to a top speed of 35 knots. The judges also felt that Offline’ s onboard facilities were well matched to the REV’s maximum complement of eight guests, providing a choice of three deck areas and a sizeable main deck saloon, all fitted out in an attractive modern style. Four crew are accommodated amidships in two double-berth cabins and enjoy a pleasant crew mess adjacent to the galley.

Judges' Commendation: Lady Lene

Length 34m Builder Van der Valk Shipyard Naval architect Ginton Naval Architects/Diana Yacht Design Exterior design Guido de Groot Design Interior design Carla Guilhem Design

Semi-displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 35m to 39.9m: Koju

Length 36.8m   Builder Benetti   Naval architect Pierluigi Ausonio Naval Architecture & Azimut|Benetti R&D dept. Exterior design Francesco Struglia   Interior design Lazzarini Pickering Architetti

After the secret ballot papers were processed, it was clear that one yacht had almost unanimously attracted the judges’ interest: Koju , Benetti’s 36.8-metre Motopanfilo. Impeccable standards of construction were certainly a key factor in the judges’ decision, but they were also impressed by the yacht’s attractive masculine appearance and her bright living spaces. Created by Francesco Struglia working alongside Benetti’s in-house designers, these were well connected to the outside world through huge windows, while long sight lines added to the impression of size and luxury. Many other aspects of the yacht also drew admiration: the engine room was found spacious, with good access to all areas for maintenance and service, while the combination of efficient hull form and her economically-sized MAN 1,029kW diesels gave her a modest top speed of 17 knots and an enviable range of 3,800 nautical miles at 10-knots. The judges also felt that the deck spaces – a huge sundeck topped by a crows’ nest observation deck, two further well-sized aft decks at bridge and main deck levels, together with a pool and sunbeds on the foredeck, provide an ideal model for outdoor living. On top of this, the stern door opens to create a large, level platform where a beach club can be set up – as one judge put it “a pleasant open-air area, not one tucked away in the bowels of the yacht and lacking sunlight”.

Semi-displacement or Planing Motor Yachts, 40m and Above: Annabella

Length 43.9m Builder Sanlorenzo Naval architect Sanlorenzo Exterior design Zuccon International Project Interior design Liaigre Studio

With seven entrants, this class was one of the largest in this year’s awards. But the judges homed in on one vessel; the 43.9-metre Sanlorenzo Annabella , a most noteworthy vessel created by a combination of in-house naval architecture, exterior design by Zuccon International and an interior by Guillaume Rolland and Liaigre Studio. The judges first admired the purposeful yet harmonious exterior lines that incorporate an excellent range of well-connected open-air living spaces, whether seen from the perspective of the owner, his guests or the crew. Then there was a “Wow” moment when they moved on to examine the yacht’s interior. Among today’s superyachts, Annabella is not huge, but the judges felt that her design and build team have created a unique environment whose clever layout, impeccable decoration and wide range of facilities combine to give her owner an experience that might only be expected from a much larger yacht. He had requested a fusion of Asian and French design, and Liaigre delivered this with a small and sophisticated palette that includes varnished eucalyptus and pale elm wood whose opposing tones provide a delightful contrast. But what really impressed the judges were the fluid curves and arched entrances that distinguish every aspect of the yacht’s interior and, above all, the master cabin. This 147-square-metre apartment spans three levels and encompasses the private foredeck and its spa pool. 

Judges’ Special Award: Gene Chaser

Length 55m Builder Damen Yachting Naval architect Damen Yachting Exterior design Damen Yachting Interior design Damen Yachting

Launched in 2021, Gene Chaser is the support vessel for her 55-metre mothership, Gene Machine , an Amels 180 constructed by Damen Yachting in 2013. The derivation of these unusual names can be better understood when it is learnt that the owner of both yachts is internationally known for his contributions to high-speed DNA sequencing. When Covid-19 struck in 2020, he was keen to join the battle against the clock to beat the pandemic, so he set up an emergency laboratory in Gene Machine ’s main saloon, where he developed a home testing kit that drew on knowledge gained from the biology of the horseshoe crab. So apart from the usual tasks of a support vessel, one of Gene Chaser ’s important roles is to relieve the pressure on her mothership’s main saloon by housing a serious scientific laboratory. “A floating lab was ideal for the work I wanted to achieve,” says her owner, “as there is no doubt that the oceans contain knowledge that is vital for us to address our future medical challenges.” It was the future scientific potential of this fascinating yacht that drew the attention of the World Superyacht Awards panel who, after a long discussion, unanimously agreed to present her with a Judges’ Special Award.

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 30m to 44.9m: Emocean

Length 38.1m Builder Rosetti Superyachts Naval architect Hydro Tec Exterior design Hydro Tec Interior design Burdisso & Capponi

After detailed discussion of the four contenders in this class, it soon became clear that one yacht stood out from the crowd. Voting confirmed the supremacy of the 38.1-metre Emocean : an explorer yacht built to Rosetti Superyachts’ high standards, with naval architecture and exterior design by Hydro Tec and interiors by Burdisso & Capponi. Not only does this yacht possess the rugged good looks of an explorer, but her 5,000-nautical-mile range, seaworthiness and long autonomy means that she fits this mission well. The owner also asked for enhanced interior volume and a fully featured beach club, while also calling for a closable sundeck to suit all weather conditions and a crew area that would provide for a comfortable lifestyle and good working conditions. For all this to be contained within a 38-metre hull was certainly a tough request, but the judges felt that the design team had achieved this goal in admirable fashion, with clever design features throughout impressing the judges. To give just one example, to meet the owner’s request of keeping the enclosed area of the beach club tender-free, the tender’s primary stowage is on the bridge deck aft, with an alternative berth on the bathing platform in calm weather. Such positioning requires a sizeable crane that would dominate the bridge deck aft, but clever design camouflages the crane and its lowered jib by giving it a second purpose as a convenient bar. After closely scrutinising the yacht’s power, performance and economy figures, the judges felt that the choice of two relatively small MAN 588kW diesels was well made, allowing her to achieve full hull speed with the excellent economy requested by the owner.

Displacement Motor Yachts 499GT and Below, 45m and Above: Alisa

Length 49.9m Builder Overmarine Group Naval architect Pierluigi Ausonio & Overmarine Group Exterior design Alberto Mancini Interior design Alberto Mancini

This class was made up of four significant yachts with overall lengths falling between 47 and 55 metres, all built with steel hulls and aluminium superstructures, and having almost identical interior volumes and propulsion packages – a readily comparable class for the judges. After hearing the views of the judges who had visited the individual yachts, attention was turned to the detail of their general arrangement plans, traffic flow and increasingly technical issues, after which two yachts, Al Waab and the Mangusta Oceano 50, seemed to stand out. But, as always, it was the secret ballot that decided the winner and – by a small margin – this awarded the Neptune to Alisa , the 49.9-metre Mangusta. In the majority view, this was the yacht the judges said they would choose for their own holidays. Not only solidly built, it also offered a well-considered layout and extremely spacious and practical living areas, both inside and out. Its large sundeck boasts all the necessary amenities for outdoor living including a spa pool, bar, relaxed seating, sun loungers and casual dining. Optimal use is also made of the foredeck which offers two possibilities: underway, it has settee seating and sunbeds, but when the tender stored beneath is launched and the decking is folded back, the empty tender bay can be filled with water to create a 6.6-metre by 2.6-metre pool with counter current. This forward garage location has allowed the stern to be filled with a huge 62.5-square-metre beach club lit through four glass skylights, plus a full-beam gym. This area can be made even more spacious and airy by the two fold-down side platforms, while providing excellent connectivity with the sea for water sports.

Judges' Commendation: Al Waab

Length 54.9m Builder Alia Yachts Naval architect Vripack Exterior design Vripack Interior design Vripack

Displacement Motor Yachts, 500GT to 999GT: Somnium

Length 55.2m Builder Feadship Naval architect De Voogt Naval Architects Exterior desig n Studio De Voogt Interior design FM - Architetture d’Interni

This year, none of the categories provided easy decisions for the judges, and this class was no exception, even though it contained four yachts of comparable size – their LOAs all within 50 centimetres of each other – and all built by notable shipyards. Each yacht displayed some enviable attributes, but the voting revealed the winner as 55.2-metre Somnium , designed by De Voogt Naval Architects and built by Feadshipwith an interior by FM Architettura d’Interni. Unlike the majority of boats in this size range, the judges noted that Somnium is a fully customised yacht built for an exacting owner who made bi-weekly visits to the shipyard throughout the design and build process. Such involvement meant that his yacht was built without change orders and the result was, in his own words, a vessel “that is exactly how I envisaged her, and more”. Somnium was designed entirely with family use in mind, with spacious accommodation for up to ten guests in five staterooms. The judges praised her excellent balance between the calmly decorated facilities for the owner and his guests – all perfectly tailored to the needs of the family – and her crew and service areas, which are universally well proportioned and laid out. The jury considered that the deck areas were especially well conceived, with a large sundeck that’s fully equipped for outdoor living, a bridge deck aft fitted out for more formal dinners, and a large pool with counter-current on the main deck aft. 

Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,000GT to 1,499GT: Triumph

Length 65.4m Builder Benetti Naval architect Benetti Exterior design Giorgio M. Cassetta Interior design Benetti Interior Style Department/ Green & Mingarelli Design

After long deliberation the majority of judges steered towards the 65.4-metre Benetti, Triumph . Her owner’s brief was for a practical charter yacht with excellent internal flow and a seamless relationship between the interior and exterior of the yacht, and as a very active businessman, it was also important for him to be able to work aboard while enjoying the surroundings. The judges were initially attracted to Triumph ’s clean, drop-dead-gorgeous exterior lines drawn by Cassetta Yacht Designers, the Rome-based studio founded 18 years ago by Giorgio Cassetta and responsible for more than 400 yachts. Looking into her further, the judges agreed that this beautifully proportioned vessel offers the ultimate in lounging and dining over four levels, as well as a private owner’s deck forward on the upper deck, and an extensive bathing platform and beach club at the stern. Added to this external beauty, the judges felt that her interior, laid out in house by Benetti and decorated by Benetti’s Interior Style Department assisted by Green & Mingarelli Design, to be practical and functional, displaying a fair balance between guest and crew areas, service facilities, storage compartments and machinery spaces. They also felt that the distribution of technical equipment logically divided by function throughout the tank deck allowed for an uncluttered and easily maintained engine room. All in all, this adds up to an ideal charter vessel, which is exactly what her owner requested.

Displacement Motor Yachts, 1,500GT to 1,999GT: Vanish

Length 71.5m Builder Feadship Naval architect De Voogt Naval Architects   Exterior design Harrison Eidsgaard   Interior design Harrison Eidsgaard

It was Vanish who stood out from the crowd in this cateogry this year, scoring particularly highly for her appearance and interior layout. Her owner wanted his next yacht to be an evolution of his last, with no huge changes but small improvements throughout. Those familiar with the first Vanish will immediately spot slight differences in its successor’s superstructure, but such small improvements will be lost unless the two yachts were docked side by side. Subtle improvement is often better than radical redesign, and the judges applauded the execution of this evolution by Harrison Eidsgaard Design. The extremely high quality of build seen throughout the vessel took her further ahead, but her straightforward interior layout that offers a range of attractive, function-specific deck spaces, sociable public rooms, well-sized staterooms and excellent crew facilities sealed her win. Particularly admired was her beach club, an element of which is a dual-purpose tender bay that, with the addition of sofas and easy chairs, converts into an ideal waterside area for rest and relaxation. This, they felt, is not a revolutionary yacht, but one that completely fulfils her owner’s requirements, offers delightful interior and exterior spaces, and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever she goes.

Displacement Motor Yachts, 2,000GT and Above: Viva

Length 94m Builder Feadship Naval architect De Voogt Naval Architects Exterior design Studio De Voogt & Azure Yacht Design & Naval Architecture Interior design Peter Marino

The best custom yachts do not just happen; they need a great deal of input from an owner if they are to get exactly what they want – and that takes time and dedication. It was clear to the judges that one yacht stood out in this class because the owner, a highly experienced yachtsman, had put in this necessary effort; not just a short burst of requirements delivered to the yard at the start of design work, but a steady development taking more than 12 years. The yacht that emerged, and the one that drew most praise in this class, is the 94-metre Viva , with naval architecture by De Voogt and exterior design by Azure Yacht Design and De Voogt. The judges liked the yacht’s clean, modern lines and large deck spaces, but it was closer inspection – while they were aboard the yacht – that sealed the win. Here, as the owner proudly says, “it is what you don’t see that makes a strongest impression, with no doorknobs, latches or visible connection points that would detract from the clean lines – everything is flat and pure”. While this is easy on the eye, the judges recognised the demands this put on the builders and applauded their solutions. Once inside, the light and exterior views afforded by the floor-to-ceiling windows and low bulwarks were outstanding, as was the interior design by Peter Marino, and the clear-cut layout that made navigating the interior straightforward. The yacht also excels mechanically. Her advanced hybrid power train permits an efficient 12-knot cruise under diesel-electric propulsion with all emissions catalytically treated, while her battery bank permits optimum generator efficiency. This, the judges concluded, is a well-balanced boat whose every aspect comes together in a perfect package.

Voyager’s Award: Asteria

Length 49m Builder Anastassiades & Tsortanides

Uniquely in these awards, qualifying cruises for Voyager’s Award entrants may span more than one year in recognition that superyacht cruises can be wide-ranging and of long duration. Owing to the travel restrictions imposed over the last two years during the Covid-19 crisis, this has not been a year in which the judges were inundated with entries, but notwithstanding these difficulties, the details of three cruises were submitted for the Voyager’s Award. The judges felt that all of these were excellent in their scope and account, especially so when global restrictions were taken into consideration. After great deliberation, the judges chose the winner as Asteria , a 49-metre expedition yacht, while bestowing a Judges’ Special Award on Seahawk in view of the philanthropic and scientific nature of her cruise and the narrow margin between her and the winner.

Asteria’s plan for 2020 was for shipyard time in May and then depart for Greenland and the Northwest Passage but, anticipating the restrictions that might be triggered by Covid-19, this was rapidly amended. Asteria departed from Florida on 13 March and arrived in the San Blas Islands just one day before Panama closed its borders. They stayed for 50 days in the islands before transiting the Panama Canal and calling at Simca Island before an onward passage onwards to the stark beauty of Mexico’s Sea of Cortez. Leaving Mexico, Asteria made the long passage northwards to Ketchikan, Alaska, where the adventures continued – glaciers, whales, brown bears, eagles, salmon and magnificent scenery – in absolute wilderness. The judges considered this a highly enviable cruise carried out in the face of difficulty – a worthy winner of the Voyager’s Award.

Judges’ Special Award: Seahawk

Length 60m Builder Perini Navi

"It wasn’t the plan, but sometimes good things happen when you go off course,” said Adam Alpert, owner of 60-metre sailing yacht Seahawk . Cruising the Caribbean, Seahawk was trapped in Bonaire with the island’s ports closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. Both animal lovers, Adam and his wife Gisela decided to make the most of their enforced stay and discovered an animal sanctuary in need of help. They promptly made a donation and got down to mixing concrete and shovelling sand with their crew.

The couple’s plan was to cruise for seven years, fulfilling a wish to assist marine science and coastal community welfare. So, after restrictions lifted they returned to the Caribbean, where a large donation was made to St Vincent’s Health Authority. They went on to support YachtAid Global with aid in the Galápagos Islands and help marine conservationists Migramar in investigating pelagic migration patterns. The judges felt that the owners’ philanthropic aims are outstanding and well worthy of a Special Award.

Legacy Award: Herb Chambers

Herb Chambers is the owner and president of The Herb Chambers Companies, a US-based group of car dealerships. In 1970, he fulfilled a childhood dream of owning a boat when he bought a used nine-metre Trojan, Valhalla , for $8,000. This was the first of many vessels to bear the “A-Copy” name, with a 25-metre Broward motor yacht being most recent. Since then, he has built several luxury superyachts with two outstanding shipyards, Feadship and Abeking & Rasmussen. His latest project launched in 2019, gracing the Monaco Yacht Show with its futuristic design. Having seen a rendering of a joint venture between Winch Design and Abeking & Rasmussen, Chambers felt there would be no one better to help pioneer his project. Under the skilful guidance of Andrew Winch, this groundbreaking concept was brought to life. Chambers knew that building a yacht such as this could be a risk due to its unique bow and near-all-glass exterior. Now the sixth yacht to bear her name, Excellence captures the essence of the team’s vision with every aspect of her breathtaking contemporary design. “My company continued to do well, so I got a bigger boat, and a bigger boat, and a bigger boat, and in between all those boats, I probably owned half a dozen Cigarette boats, two or three Magnums and a Formula,” he told BOAT International back in 2020. “I’ve always had this passion for boats. I love them.”

lNominations for the 2023 World Superyacht Awards are now open. You can submit a nomination here or by clicking on the button below.

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