Winners for IBEX 2021 Innovation Awards
The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) has announced the winners of the IBEX Innovation Awards.
The programme was managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers International (BWI). The judges declared 11 Innovation Award winners and made three honourable mentions during the annual Industry Breakfast, Keynote & Innovation Awards ceremony on 28 September.
The winners are:
Boat care and maintenance
Gibco Flex-Mold Inc., Re-Deck: “This is a comprehensive selection of gelcoat decking patterns that simplifies and reduces the cost of decking repair,” says judge Bill Bishop.
Boatbuilding methods and materials
Sika Corporation, Adekit A236: “A great low temperature curing, high-strength, two-part adhesive that can be used in volume without discoloring gelcoat,” says judge Bill Gius.
Deck equipment and hardware
LilliPad Marine, Ghost Mount: “Nearly invisible yet unbelievably strong, this versatile floor-mounting system is a true gamechanger for both builders and consumers,” says judge Brady Kay.
Honourable mention
Seaworthy Innovations, Scuppers.
Electrical systems
Discover Battery, Lithium Blue: “Completely serviceable in the field, Lithium Blue is sure to have an impact on this growing segment,” says judge Adam Quandt.
Honourable mention
Raymarine, YachtSense Modular Digital Control System
Entertainment
RideController, LED+: “This is an innovative use of neopixel LEDs and advances the art of yacht lighting,” says judge Bill Bishop.
Furnishings and interior parts
Guardtex, Kanvaslight: “The flexibility of the optical fibers in this product is a versatile way to provide practical and decorative lighting integrated into a soft Bimini top,” says judge Steve Davis.
Mechanical systems
Xlyem, Jabsco Quiet Flush E2: “A simple solution to a potentially messy situation,” says judge Ben Stein.
OEM electronics
Volvo Penta, Assisted Docking: “Volvo’s Assisted Docking lets the skipper take a breath in stressful situations while giving them pinpoint control of the vessel,” says judge Ben Stein.
Propulsion parts, propellers
HydroFin, Super Fly: “A well-engineered hydrofoil system that significantly improves the ride and performance of any double pontoon boat,” says judge Brady Kay.
Safety equipment
Oscar Navigation, Sentry: “The Sentry’s advanced use of machine learning from millions of on-water events makes boating safer underway and at rest,” says judge Ben Stein.
Honourable mention
inteliPlug, The Vault
Trailers, parts and trailer accessories
Innovative Group Inc., Roller Bunk: “A new way to avoid powerloading and boat launch erosion that can be adapted to an existing trailer,” says judge Adam Quandt.
“This year’s Innovation Awards programme saw an incredible collection of entries,” says Anne Dunbar, IBEX show director. “The judges from Boating Writers International had their work cut out for them to select winners to join the ranks of hundreds of marine manufacturers who have been recognised through the history of the program and receive the beautiful crystal awards. These trophies are proudly displayed by those who have brought new, innovative products to market and is a mark of distinction recognised across the industry. We would like to thank all those who entered and congratulate those who have won.”
All products submitted to the IBEX Innovation Awards will be displayed throughout the show.
