European Powerboat of the Year 2026: winners announced

The annual boat show in Düsseldorf, having closed last Sunday, not only showcased new yachts and boats but also selected the best ones. During the exhibition, the winners of the European Powerboat of the Year award were traditionally announced, in which a jury of representatives from leading European trade magazines selects the best boats and motor yachts up to 24 metres in length. This year's winners were:

Sea Ray SDX 270 Surf

The Sea Ray SDX 270 Surf is an 8.5-metre bowrider designed for both cruising and wake sports. The boat is equipped with a 6.2-litre MerCruiser V8 engine producing 350 hp paired with a Bravo Four S drive for improved low-speed manoeuvrability and propulsion control. Its NextWave surf system, combining three ballast tanks and trim tabs, generates a controlled wave for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, while adaptive cruise control maintains stable engine speed during manoeuvres. The layout provides extended deck space with integrated seating, storage and a cockpit designed as a continuous social area. Water access is via a swim platform with a telescopic ladder and submersible step. The helm features dual 9-inch touchscreens for navigation and surf-system control, and the console incorporates a fully enclosed restroom.

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Windy SR40

SR40 was designed by renowned superyacht designer Espen Øino in collaboration with Design Unlimited, the studio led by Mark Tucker and known for large-scale yacht projects. It is a walkaround cabin boat featuring a sliding roof, disappearing doors, and roof-mounted rails for carrying sports equipment, making it a practical choice for active families. The aft deck is fitted with fold-down bulwarks that expand the waterside lounging area, a particularly useful feature for an outboard-powered boat. Below deck, the layout offers either two or four berths plus a bathroom. A wide range of outboard and inboard engine options allows owners to balance performance and efficiency, with the most powerful version delivering up to 1,200 hp and a top speed of 52 knots.

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Sasga Menorquín 48

The Menorquín range from Spanish shipyard Sasga is a modern interpretation of the traditional llaüt fishing boats of Menorca. Originally, these boats had no cabins or deckhouses and were limited to speeds of around 20 knots. Today, their classic hull forms serve as the basis for comfortable, seaworthy motor yachts. The Menorquin 48, Sasga’s latest model, measures 15.20 metres in length with a beam of 4.85 metres and cruises between 12 and 19 knots thanks to its semi-displacement hull. Like all Menorquin models, it is known for reliability, fuel efficiency, good seakeeping and long-range comfort. The yacht is available with either a hardtop or a flybridge and features three cabins, two bathrooms, a captain’s cabin, a bright galley and a spacious saloon, providing a high level of onboard comfort.

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De Antonio D60

The De Antonio D60 is a high-performance motor yacht defined by a clean, angular design. With an overall length of 18.55 metres and a beam of 4.80 metres, it is powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS engines that enable speeds of up to 40 knots. The cockpit includes generous sunbathing areas and a dedicated dining space. Interior layouts are available with two or three cabins, along with a fully equipped galley and saloon. The hull design ensures stability and responsive handling even at high speeds. Equipped with modern navigation and entertainment systems, the D60 is suited to both extended cruising and day trips.

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Bluegame BGF45

The Bluegame BGF45 is a 14.15-metre foil-assisted power catamaran that brings America’s Cup–derived technology into a luxury cruising yacht. With a beam of 5.12 metres and a shallow draught of about 1.15 metres, it combines exceptional stability with access to shallow waters. A central hydrodynamic foil positioned between the twin hulls reduces drag, delivering up to 30% lower fuel consumption compared to conventional motor yachts of similar size. Powered by twin Volvo Penta IPS engines, the BGF45 cruises comfortably at around 28 knots and reaches top speeds of approximately 35 knots, offering a smooth, efficient and controlled ride even in demanding conditions. The twin-hull configuration creates unusually generous spaces for a 45-footer, accommodating up to 14 guests. The layout includes two main cabins plus a flexible third cabin, bright interiors with strong indoor-outdoor flow, expansive sunbathing areas, and an aft beach platform that opens directly to the sea.

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