To decide the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards winners most fairly, BOAT International has adopted the same transparent judging as the World Superyacht Awards.
In this respect, the panel is a fully independent jury of esteemed designers and stylists from both within and beyond the yachting industry, each bringing expert knowledge in their respective fields.
The judges
Cristina de Basto - vice president, De Basto Designs
Jozeph Forakis - founder and president, jozeph forakis ... Design
Captain Chris Gartner - 106.7-metre Black Pearl
Claire German - CEO, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour
Fabrizio Giugiaro - president and creative director, Giugiaro Architettura
Tim Gosling - director, Gosling Limited
Stuart King - director, Technical Marine UK
Hans Konings - director, Konings Yacht Consultancy
Cyril Le Sourd - co-founder, SPARK Marine
Sabrina Monteleone - owner, Sabrina Monte-Carlo
Marilyn Mower - former chairman of the awards; contributor and editor-at-large, BOAT International
Merfyn Owen - partner, Owen Clarke Design
Guillaume Rolland - director of yacht design, Liaigre
James Roy - managing director, Lateral Engineering
Sally Storey - owner and design director, Lighting Design International
Giorgio Vafiadis - founder, Studio Vafiadis
Chairman
Tim Heywood - yacht designer, Tim Heywood Designs Ltd.
Vice co-chairpersons
Cecile Gauert - executive editor, BOAT International and BOAT International US
Caroline White - deputy editor, BOAT International
We would like to thank the panel of judges for their dedication, commitment and support.
The BOAT Design & Innovation Awards will return to Kitzbühel in 2026 on 1-3 February as part of the Superyacht Design Festival, with tickets currently on sale. Nominations for the 2026 awards are now closed. For more information, please email the events team.
BUY TICKETS