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The story behind the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards new trophy

3 February 2025 • Written by Lucy Dunn

After 15 successful years of the BOAT Design & Innovation Awards, winners have received a newly redesigned trophy, created through a fresh collaboration between BOAT International and bespoke glass and lighting designer Lasvit.

Named Minerva, after the Roman goddess of wisdom, arts and crafts, the trophy pays tribute to an awards programme that celebrates the pinnacle of superyacht innovation, design and craftsmanship.

Lasvit, a Bohemian design studio, is celebrated globally for its exquisite glass and light creations. Its international workshops are dedicated to crafting custom hand-blown glass lighting installations and intricate glass walls for luxury hotels, private residences, superyachts, cultural venues and public spaces. Under the visionary leadership of founder Leon Jakimič, the atelier has earned a reputation for blending traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking design and advanced technology.

Conceived by Lasvit designer Yulin Huang, the Minerva trophy builds on the legacy of the previous Neptune award. Its elegant form reflects the essence of a Roman goddess, while its vibrant hues evoke the shimmering waters navigated by the world’s most exceptional yachts.

“The Minerva trophy is a true reflection of what these awards stand for—creativity, craftsmanship, and pushing boundaries in design,” said Christopher Whale, BOAT’s group creative director. “It was essential that the trophy itself embodied the spirit of innovation that we celebrate each year.”

The BOAT International Design & Innovation Awards acknowledge everything from the naval architecture, styling, innovation and engineering of today's superyachts, to the changing demands of owners and the increased portfolio of technology. The awards include a Lifetime Achievement Award, which honours someone who has made an indelible impression on the superyacht design sector.

The BOAT Design and Innovation Awards will be returning to the 2026 Superyacht Design Festival in Kitzbühel on 1-3 February with limited early-bird tickets available. For more information, please email the events team.

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