The prestigious Design Innovation Award 2024 was presented on Friday, September 20th, during an elegant ceremony at the historic Palazzo della Borsa, nestled in Genoa's charming Liberty style city center. This fifth edition of the award, initiated by the Italian Marine Industry Association – Confindustria Nautica and I Saloni Nautici in 2020, honors the pinnacle of design, innovation, and sustainability in the yachting community. It serves as an essential platform for showcasing the latest advancements by exhibitors at the renowned Genoa International Boat Show, while highlighting designs that reflect current trends and push design boundaries.



The event commenced with opening remarks from Genoa Mayor Marco Bucci and Chamber of Commerce Board Member Paolo Corsilia, setting an upbeat tone for the night. Following their addresses, the stage was graced by Saverio Cecchi, President of the Italian Marine Industry Association, and Andrea Razeto, President of I Saloni Nautici, who officially kicked off the award presentations.



Maria Porro, President of Milan’s Design and Furniture Show, returned to chair the jury for a second consecutive year, underscoring the growing synergy between yacht and furniture design industries. Porro noted, “While our fields have distinct needs, we also share common goals of quality, research, and innovation, fostering a relationship that can drive growth.” This year, the independent jury evaluated nearly 100 entries, a testament to the dynamic progress within the yachting sector.



The jury comprised notable figures including Andrea Ratti from Politecnico di Milano, Andrana Monk of Monk Design, and Carlo Cameli, President of the Italian Yacht Club, amongst others. They recognized ten award categories and two special prizes for Outstanding Innovation and Outstanding Career, celebrating exceptional designs characterized by originality, sustainability, and social impact.

Award Winners:

Sailing and Motor Boats up to 10m LH: Frauscher 1017GT 2nd Edition by Frauscher Italia – Praised for its design refinement and balanced proportions.
Sailing Boats – up to 14m: Dufour 44 by Dufour Yachts – Recognized for its bold design and spacious interior.
Sailing Boats – over 14mY8 by YYachts GMBH – Noted for its sleek elegance and exquisite details.
Motorboats – up to 14mSaxdor 340 GTWA by Saxdor Yachts – A compact design offering functionality and light.
Motorboats – over 14mSeadeck 7 by Azimut – An electric hybrid exemplifying sustainable innovation.
Superyachts – over 24mSP92 by Sanlorenzo – Celebrated for its grandiose design and spaciousness.
RIBs: Scanner Envy 1500 by Seascan Marine Srl – An unconventional rib that integrates a spacious cabin.
Multihulls: LAGOON 60 by Lagoon – A purposeful catamaran with a serene layout.
Boating Equipment: Mercury Avator 75 & 110 by Mercury Marine – A forward-thinking product design indicating future propulsion trends.
Onboard Electronics: Alpha Performance by Raymarine Italy – Featuring a user-friendly display within a sleek design.

Special Prizes were awarded to MPX Impact by Musto for Outstanding Innovation and Solaris Yachts for Outstanding Career, marking 50 years of exemplary design and commitment to innovation.



The evening concluded with engaging performances by DJ Raffaele Costantino and electric harp artist Kety Fusco, leaving guests enriched by the celebration of creativity and cutting-edge design.

Credits: Confindustria Nautica

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