We celebrate the well-deserved winners of the 2019 Motor Boat Awards, as chosen by our select group of judges
Superboats
Finalists
- Brabus Shadow 800
- Cockwells Titian Tender
- Levi 8.5
- SACS Strider 10
- Sealegs 9.0 Hydrasol
- Zeelander Z44
Winner: Zeelander Z44
There is simply nothing like the Zeelander 44. Only 44ft (16.8m) in length but designed and crafted with the care and attention to detail of a multi-million pound superyacht. The closer you look the more enraptured you become by its quality, craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to beauty no matter the cost. It deserves an award for its devotion to curvature alone.
Some of the fine detailing beggars belief; the ‘wood’ inserts aren’t wood at all but a hard-wearing artificial material which is hand painted individually to give the flawless appearance of timber.
The transom panel folds down to create a huge, unencumbered bathing platform and the interior is a feast of top-drawer timber and yet more swooping lines. Top-end performance is conservative but it’s the refinement and cruising potential even in rough seas that is so impressive.
Noise from its IPS600 engines is suppressed astonishingly well, making the Z44 a peerless long- distance cruiser. It’s as comfortable doing day boat duties as it is overnight stays and once at your destination you can enjoy the best bit of Zeelander ownership – turning around and staring at it.
Highly commended: Cockwells Titian Tender
The ambition of this gem of a boat yard is a joy to see. Here, a flawless handcrafted wooden hull meets exhilarating water jet propulsion.
