European Yacht of the Year awards

by Toby Hodges, Yachting World
The Oscars of the boatbuilding world, the European Yacht of the Year 2022, have been announced. Together they comprise the five best yachts of the year in a variety categories and, for the first time, three special mention awards.

This is the 19th year of the European Yacht of the Year awards, which is without a doubt the most thorough and impartial awards program – the winners here are widely considered the best yachts of the year. The awards now include 12 jury members from across Europe, each leading voices on boat testing in their respective countries.

It involves shortlisting the best annual prospects, typically into five separate categories, before all 12 jury members trial each yacht to elect the winners. The trials were held in La Rochelle and Port Ginesta, Barcelona during the autumn.

Normally the awards would be presented at the Dusseldorf Boat Show, but for the second year running, this was cancelled because of COVID, hence a virtual presentation instead. The full report about the shortlisted yachts and winners is in our March 2022 issue. For a breakdown of the nominees and winners, click here.