Naval Architect: Michael Peters
Exterior Styling, Interior Design: Michael Peters and Hodgdon Yachts
Builder: Hodgdon Custom Tenders
A total of 12 tenders were entered in the ShowBoats Design Awards and it was clear that the limousine-style tender has truly come into its own.
This category goes first to a subcommittee to compare the entrants on such issues as horsepower-to-weight ratios, launch and retrieval methods, carrying capacity, speed, range and mission features. Those deemed the “smartest” are presented to the full panel.
Top marks went to a new development by U.S. builder Hodgdon Yachts for a longer, aft helm version of its Venetian water taxi-inspired limo. Here, Michael Peters has evolved the graceful lines of the taxis into an elegant yet sexy sculpture on the water.
The aft helm model offers the option of being inside or outside. Ample outside seating forward, a climate-controlled cabin for 10 with standing headroom and a generous aft deck with commanding views is manifested in a low profile with a rigid bimini that powers down for stowage in the tender bay. Twin Volvo outdrives power her to 34 knots while the paint and interior appointments complement the mothership.