Boat Builder Awards 2025 heralds second decade with new business-friendly format
The 2025 IBI Metstrade Boat Builder Awards for Business Achievement, held in association with foundation partner Raymarine, will return for its 11th edition with a completely refreshed format, co-located alongside Metstrade in a vibrant new event space within the RAI exhibition complex.
The Boat Builder Awards is organised by long-standing collaborators IBI and Metstrade to highlight the brilliant but often unmentioned achievements of boat building companies, allied trades and the people that drive them. A substantial element of Metstrade’s visitor base and IBI’s audience is formed from key industry personal working within these sectors.
Moving to a co-located dedicated entertainment suite just a short walk from the show floor was the perfect choice for the Boat Builder Awards in a year that will see an historic expansion of Metstrade itself. The awards segment of the celebratory dinner on Wednesday 19th November has also been streamlined to maximise time to meet and converse with leading industry professionals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Patricia Becker, Exhibition Manager of Metstrade, comments on the significance of this new approach: “Metstrade 2025 will occupy the entire RAI exhibition complex for the first time in the show’s 35-year history. This will provide a more spacious layout with numerous advantages to exhibitors and visitors. Harbour 8 offers an outstanding environment for events, and guests attending the Boat Builder Awards dinner will enjoy a truly memorable culinary experience. In line with RAI Amsterdam's commitment to sustainability, the menu will feature Heartwarming Amsterdam produce, highlighting fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Harbour 8’s location within Metstrade means visitors and exhibitors will step from show floor meetings and networking, straight into a relaxing evening celebration with ample opportunity to engage with the key industry personalities who will be present.”
“We’ve also taken a close look at the award categories for this year and decided to focus on the six that carry the highest importance in 2025,” continues Ed Slack, Editorial Director of IBI. “This will give our panel of judges more time to consider each entry and enable us to broaden the shortlist field. Our emphasis will be on innovation, sustainability and collaboration. We’ll also see the continuance of the renowned Life Time Achievement and Rising Star awards, which celebrate the global sector’s brilliant pioneers and its fast-growing younger talent.
“The entry portal is now open (www.ibinews.com/bba2025/enter-now); although nominations can be made as late as 27 September, the judges are really looking forward to seeing as many submissions as possible before the autumn/fall boat show season commences, so they have maximum time to consider the merits of each one.”
Raymarine has been a foundation partner and keen advocate of the Boat Builder Awards as headline sponsor since its inception. IBI and Metstrade are pleased to announce the continuity of this strong partnership into this 11th edition. Grégoire Outters, Raymarine’s General Manager, comments: “It’s an honour for Raymarine to once again be the headline sponsor of the Boat Builder Awards—an event that shines a spotlight on the innovation and dedication that drive our industry forward. Our strong relationships with OEM partners are at the core of everything we do, and working together ensures we deliver the best possible experience for the end customer. I always look forward to this event, not only for the inspiration it brings, but for the chance to connect in person with so many passionate individuals.”
Nominations now open
The Boat Builder Awards is free to enter. You can nominate on your behalf or send in entries for companies or people who you think deserve recognition. Nominations are via a simple to use online form and open now until 27 September 2025. To ensure judges have maximum time to evaluate entries, businesses are encouraged to submit their nominations as soon as possible.
Full details of the six award categories and how to nominate are available at www.ibinews.com/bba2025.
Step from Metstrade straight into Amsterdam’s best dinner date
Wednesday 19 November is the date to save for the 2025 Boat Builder Awards for Business Achievement, jointly run by IBI and Metstrade , in association with Raymarine. This fine celebration of achievement will be held in the brand-new Harbour 8 facility adjacent to Hall 8, in the heart of Metstrade. Tickets are on sale now – visit www.ibinews.com/bba2025 to ensure your reservation for a night to remember.
The 2025 categories
Breakthrough Launch of the Year – sponsored by HP Watermakers
Innovative Design Solution – sponsored by Fusion
Collaborative Solution between a Builder and its Supply Chain Collaboration
Sustainability Project of the Year – sponsored by ePropulsion
Rising Star – sponsored by Lumishore
Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by Sleipner
