02/17/2014

Innovative Companies Honored at Miami Boat Show

Thirteen marine products were honored for innovative achievement by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Writers International (BWI) at the 2014 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show. Thirteen products took home 2014 Innovation Awards during NMMA’s State of Recreational Boating Industry Breakfast held at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

The Innovation Awards, organized by NMMA and judged by BWI, recognize products that best meet the following criteria: innovative distinction from other products currently being manufactured; benefit to the marine industry and/or consumer; practicality; cost-effectiveness; and, availability to the consumer within 60 days of award receipt.

Thirteen Innovation Awards were presented in the following categories:

Boat Care & Maintenance

EZPoxy2, by Petit:  Single-serving gel pouches of hardener and a longer pot life make this paint more user friendly, even for the do-it-yourselfer, potentially lowering the cost of boat maintenance and upkeep. Judge Lenny Rudow said, “If you love your boat, Petit.”

Docking and Fendering Equipment

ShoreStation Boat Hoist, by Midwest Industries: A well-designed and well-executed hoist, it solves many problems and minimizes cable ware. “It is fast and low maintenance,” noted Alan Jones.

Furnishings & Interior Parts

Dynamic Cabin System on the Boston Whaler 345 Conquest, by Boston Whaler: This sleeping arrangement of retractable cushions solves the big issue of where to store the cushions when not in use. “At the press of a button you can turn a double bed into a dining room. It’s the James Bond of beds!” exclaimed Nigel Calder.

Mechanical & Electrical Systems – Co-winners

EZ-Mount Battery Switch, by Marinco Mastervolt

SNAPP Fuel Filter/Water Separator, by Racor/Parker Hannifin

Both of these products are solving traditional installation and maintenance challenges. “These will save you time and your knuckles,” said Lenny Rudow.

Personal Gear, Soft Goods, Watersports and Fishing Equipment

Zayak Sea Sled, by Tropical Paradise Plastics:  For kids, older folks or anyone with a fear of snorkeling, the Zayak Sea Sled opens up a whole new world of underwater exploration.  Judge Ann Dermody summed it up by saying, “it has all the advantages of snorkeling without the need for a mask and tube.”

Pontoon and Deck Boats

Expanding Pontoon Boat, by Island Boats: This is the first expandable-width pontoon boat that goes from 7’ 4” to 10’ wide. “With a narrow beam for storage and trailering, this boat expands to optimize social space for everyone aboard – it’s not a pontoon; it’s a dance floor,” noted judge Alan Jones.

Boats (25′ to 60′ including Fishing Craft)

390Z, by Sea Vee:  This 39-footer pops up on plane with minimal bow rise, turns like a ski boat, and delivers higher top speeds than conventional hulls. “One look at the hull will make you want to do the sea trial, and one ride will convince you this is a new kind of stepped hull,” said Alan Wendt.

Propulsion Inboard and Outboard

Gen2 Surf System, by MasterCraft: The Gen2 Surf System combines advanced hull design, weight distribution, custom wake shaping devices and onboard software to create a wide range of wake options. “It doesn’t matter how big or small or young or old you are, with this system, Mastercraft gives you the perfect wake,” said Lenny Rudow.

PWCs and Jet Boats

Spark PWC, by Sea-Doo:  Welcome to the water – Sea Doo is expanding the entry level of boating. For half the weight, half the power and half the price, you can still have maximum fun on the water. “Four hours later, I can still taste the adrenaline,” said Ann Dermody.

Runabouts and Fishing Craft to 24’

ProStar, by Mastercraft: With innovations like a convertible bow, an intriguing storage system for your skis and an even flatter wake, Mastercarft gives serious water-skiers the best of all worlds. “Mastercraft’s passion for performance on the water is contagious,” noted Alan Wendt.

Sailboats

Oceanis 38, by Beneteau: Beneteau has found a way to attract younger families to sailing with this convertible boat that grows with you. “It’s almost enough to turn you from power to sail,” said Roger McAfee.

Consumer Electronics, Mobile Applications and Software

NSO16 evo2, by Simrad: The NSO16 evo2 brings big boat glass bridge style to midsized power and sportfishing boats. With one black box running two completely independent screens, the NSO16 also adds affordability to the navigation suite. “More computing power, less installation complexity and incredible functionality is a winning combination,” said Chairperson Zuzana Prochazka.