The 18th annual edition of the World Superyacht Awards, returned to Istanbul, Turkey, on 19-20 May 2023.
Take a look at the highlights and winners of 2023's awards.
The highlights
Watch the highlights of the 2023 World Superyacht Awards, and get a glimpse of the picturesque location, glamorous guests, and last year’s award winners.
The welcome cocktail
Held at the Mandarin Oriental, Istanbul, in a courtyard overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, guests were welcomed with two themed cocktails, and canapes were served throughout the evening. Entertainment was an Anatolian quintet followed by a traditional sword-dancing act.
Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait
Judges were treated to a cruise along the Bosphorus on board the classic motor yacht Halas 71, built in 1914. They were greeted with a welcome drink on the top deck, followed by a tour of the famous vessel, and a two-course lunch as they soaked up views of some of Istanbul's most notable landmarks.
The awards
Held at the Çırağan Palace Kempinski, guests were greeted with champagne on arrival on the terrace overlooking the Bosphorus. The judges arrived in style on board the historic Armada boat. Entertainment at the arrival drinks was a group of local ballerinas who performed on the stairs of the Palace, which led guests into the main ballroom.
A Turkish Dance Fusion group provided the entertainment to kick off the awards.
As an addition to the World Superyacht Awards programme this year, BOAT International held a charity raffle with Sabrina Monte-Carlo, hosted by Eddie Jordan, to raise money for emergency relief following the devastating earthquake in Turkey. Proceeds from the raffle were donated to Çağdaş Yaşamı Destekleme Derneği – CYDD (The Association for Supporting Contemporary Life).
The Awards host
Natasha Kaplinsky returned once again to host the awards.
The winners
19 coveted Neptunes were awarded to 17 sensational yachts. The 75-metre Kenshō was presented with Motor Yacht of the Year, and 56-metre Alea took home Sailing Yacht of the Year.