The European Powerboat of the Year Awards were just announced on the opening night of the Düsseldorf show, and the winners included Beneteau, Pardo, Solaris and, in a special category, Volvo Penta. This was the 14th year the awards were announced at a gala dinner. They were chosen by an expert jury from Europe’s leading boat testing organizations and eight leading powerboat magazines.
The boat awards were in five categories: Up to 25 feet; up to 35 feet; up to 45 feet; over 45 feet; and displacement (regardless of length). The winners, chosen from a field of 23 nominees, are:
Up to 25 Feet: Silver Tiger DCz. The judges said it is “‘characterized by its excellent, safe-driving properties and favorable price-performance ratio. In addition, it offers maximum safety for the entire crew, thanks to its fully sealed cockpit.”
Up to 35 Feet: Beneteau Flyer 10. The Judges said this category of boats “must offer practical solutions, a solid finish and safe handling on all waters. …On the Flyer 10, various concepts from larger yachts have been success fully transferred…It is a skillful mix between a day boat and a cruiser.”
Up to 45 Feet: Pardo 38. Calling it impressive, judges said, “the Pardo 38 has outstanding driving properties, paired with exceedingly high-quality craftsmanship…It is the perfect large-format day cruiser.”
Over 45 Feet: Solaris 48 Open (pictured above). The judges said, “With its second model, the boatbuilder Solaris has finally arrived in the world of powerboats. Just like the design, the manufacturing quality sets new standards in its class. This is accompanied by balancing driving properties. The foldable ‘cockpit terraces’ are a further highlight of the Solaris Power 48 Open.”
Displacement Class: Vedette Navigator 45. The judges said, “The Vedette Navigator is the modern version of the classic steel yacht concept. The quality of the materials and manufacture is excellent throughout.”
The judges also gave an Innovation Award to the Volvo Penta DPI drive, saying, “Once again, Volvo Penta has set new benchmarks in drive technology. The hydraulic clutch of the DPI drive enables silent, low-wear shifting, extending the lifespan of the Z-transmission. In addition, the electric steering unit provides greater convenience and safety in practice.” Read more:
https://www.boot.com/en/Home/boot_News/Latest_News/European_Powerboat_of_the_Year_2019_-_The_Winners
https://www.boot.com/en/Press/Press_Material/Press_Releases/Flagship_Night_2020
