Boat reviews platform announces independent awards
YachtBuyer, the data-driven marketplace and boat reviews platform for new and used motor yachts, has launched a new awards programme.
Unlike traditional boat awards and magazines, the company says its new 5 Star Trophy is entirely independent and self-funded. YachtBuyer confirms it does not accept advertising, sponsorships, or entry fees from shipyards, ensuring that reviews are based solely on merit and free from commercial influence.
Over the past four years, YachtBuyer has reviewed more than 260 boats, from 10m sportsboats to 60m superyachts. Out of this field, only 26 boats (fewer than 9 per cent) have achieved a 5-star rating.
The first official inductees into the YachtBuyer Hall of Fame have been announced, with the following boats receiving the YachtBuyer 5 Star Trophies:
- Bluegame BG42
- Sunseeker Manhattan 55
- Pearl 63
- Princess Y72
- Absolute Navetta 75
- Absolute Navetta 64
- Azimut Verve 48
- Benetti Motopanfilo 37M
- Bertram 35 Flybridge
- Pearl 72
- Princess S72 (Mk 2)
- Riva 110 Dolcevita
- Azimut Grande Trideck
- Cantiere delle Marche Flexplorer 146
- Damen Xplorer 58
- Riva 76 Perseo
“A high percentage of new boats purchased by owner-operators are bought without the buyer ever getting the chance to drive the boat themselves,” said Kevin Bodington, founder & CEO of YachtBuyer. “That’s why our sea trials, and the videos we produce from them, are so important. They allow buyers to see exactly how a boat handles, how it performs at sea, and what it’s like to operate during docking. Our reviews give people the understanding and confidence they need when choosing their next boat, and help them identify which options will truly enhance their ownership experience.”
YachtBuyer combines independent boat tests, video walkthroughs, and ten years of verified superyacht sales, charter, and AIS tracking data. The YachtBuyer YouTube channel now has over 600,000 subscribers and attracts millions of views each year.
Each winning model now has a dedicated Hall of Fame profile on YachtBuyer.com, featuring its full written review, video tour, and sea trial.
