The Sailors' Choice Awards: A Celebration of the Best in Marine Gear and Services
The sailing community is abuzz with the announcement of the 2026 Sailors' Choice Awards, an exciting initiative that promises to highlight the most innovative and practical marine equipment and services. This unique awards program, jointly organized by Practical Boat Owner and Yachting Monthly, is a refreshing change from traditional industry-led award ceremonies. By inviting nominations exclusively from the sailing public, the awards offer a genuine insight into the products and services that truly make a difference on the water.
What makes this event particularly intriguing is the emphasis on the sailing public's perspective. As Katy Stickland, sail group editor at Future Publishing, aptly notes, 'So many awards are nominated and decided by industry insiders; the Sailors' Choice Awards is unique, as we have only accepted nominations from the sailing public, and it will be sailors and boat owners who will have the final say in choosing the very best products and services out there.' This approach ensures that the awards reflect the real-world experiences and preferences of those who spend their days on the open sea.
The categories are diverse, ranging from deck equipment and electronics to clothing, maintenance, and even insurance and customer service. Each category showcases a selection of products and services that have been carefully chosen by the sailing community. For instance, in the Deck Equipment category, the Buoycatcher Max boat hook, Easymatic 16:1 Mainsheet System, and Hydrovane windvane steering system stand out as practical and innovative solutions for sailors.
The Electronics, Navigation & Communication category features the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 45cv chartplotter and fish finder, which offers advanced navigation and fishing capabilities, while the Orca Core 2 navigation system and Savvy Navvy navigation app provide reliable and user-friendly solutions for sailors on the go. The Clothing & Accessories category is a treat for fashion-conscious sailors, with the Henri-Lloyd Ocean Pro range of jackets and salopettes, Lomo Coriolis sailing jacket, and Tilley TWS1 all-weather hat offering both style and functionality.
The Maintenance & Boatbuilding Products category showcases practical solutions for keeping boats in top condition, including the Bruntons Autoprop feathering propeller, Star Brite Boat Wash shampoo, and Wavestream Bilge Filter. The Engine & Outboards category features powerful and efficient marine engines, such as the Beta Marine 10hp marine diesel engine, ePropulsion eLite electric outboard, and Sleipner SX35 pod thruster.
Safety Gear is a critical aspect of sailing, and the Sailors' Choice Awards recognize this with the Garmin inReach satellite comms device, Ocean Safety Jon Buoy EVAC evacuation platform, and Spinlock Deckvest lifejacket. The Domestic Systems category offers innovative solutions for comfortable and sustainable living on board, including the Eberspächer E-Airtronic 230V AC 1kW Electric Air Heater, Renogy Bifacial Solar Panels, and Sea Smart Toilet System toilet sanitiser.
Dinghy, Tender & Water Toys cater to the adventurous spirit of sailors, with the 3D Superlight 270 ultra lightweight inflatable dinghy, Isle Explorer 3 hybrid inflatable SUP/kayak, and Takacat 380LX inflatable catamaran tender offering exciting water-based activities. The Insurer and Customer Service categories are essential for any sailing venture, with Admiral Marine, GJW Direct, Haven Knox-Johnston, Icom, Marine Super Store, and Premier Marinas providing reliable support and services.
What makes the Sailors' Choice Awards truly special is the opportunity for the sailing public to have their say. By voting for their favorite products and services, sailors can influence the industry and shape the future of marine equipment and services. The voting process is straightforward, with nominations available at www.pbo.co.uk/sailors-choice-awards, and the winners will be announced on 22 September at the Southampton International Boat Show.
In my opinion, the Sailors' Choice Awards are a breath of fresh air in the marine industry. By giving the sailing public a platform to recognize and celebrate the best in marine gear and services, the awards foster a sense of community and shared passion. The diverse range of categories and the emphasis on practical, innovative solutions make the awards a must-watch for sailors and boat owners alike. So, if you're a sailing enthusiast, I encourage you to get involved and have your say in this exciting initiative. Who knows, your favorite product or service might just be crowned the best in the business!
