Innovation Awards - Minneapolis

Judge Bill Gius said, “The Smoker Craft Contour Package brings upscale, high quality, lake-like contour map paint graphics along with matching the SeaDek interior flooring trim designs.  A step up from even the most contemporary decal designs, the paint schemes provide durability and eye-catching appeal to the line.  Newly designed seating features the popular cool touch vinyl to help make the ride more comfortable. 

Judge Brady Kay said, “Barletta’s innovative application of the Shadow-Caster LED lighting system is showcased perfectly with its reimagined helm design that brings addressable lighting to a whole new level.”

Judge Bill Gius said, “Keeping aft seating passengers secure and comfortable, the Bennington Retractable Keeper Rail is now available on several models.  The high polish, stainless steel rail and linked chain system easily clicks into place for running underway or slides out of the way with the operation of three locking pin sets, to allow for easy access on or off the aft lounge and voluminous swim platform area.” 

Judge Charles Plueddeman said, “The Princecraft Vogue 25 RL introduces new contoured side panels with a dual-skin design formed of smooth acrylic that is backed by an ABS structure. This material offers an outstanding finish and the opportunity to form complex shapes, is very durable and is lighter than fiberglass. It is the first time this construction has been featured in marine.” 

"While offering a new level of deck space, Skeeter went a step further for its new WXR 2060F by redesigning in the hull. Eliminating flex for more stability in the new console pods for a better boating experience,” says judge Adam Quandt.

“It’s not just another ladder, designed with simple, common sense features for aftermarket use, the LilliPad Marine Easy Step Ladder incorporates hidden, innovative features, said judge Bill Guis. It’s built for easy installation with versatility to accommodate the boater and their pets use on new or vintage boats.”

“As impressive as the Premier Angler is, there is one new feature that stands out above all others and that’s the exclusive Troll & Stow system,” said judge Brady Kay. “Truly a game-changer, the revolutionary trolling motor design stows completely below deck for a clean, clutter-free deck.” 

“We’re used to seeing twin engine pontoon models, but Barletta’s custom engine pod design is unlike anything else out there,” said Judge Brady Kay. “Mounting the two engines together increases the functionality for a smooth and powerful ride.”

“From its new Zero-G Lounger to a newly designed chassis, no details went unchecked in the next iteration of the Crowne from Harris. Bow to stern, the Crowne takes boating in luxury and comfort to the next level,” said judge Adam Quandt.

“Bringing in an entirely new concept of boat with next generation technologies and an entry-level price point, the Veer X13 offers the joy of getting on the water to a whole new generation of boaters and offers access to waters never before explored by a motorized boat,” said judge, Adam Quandt.

“As the popularity of multi-function rear lounges continues to grow, Barletta discovered a unique way to give you the same versatility but in a center walkthrough design,” said judge, Brady Kay.

“Designed to open access to the water for anglers, the Open Water Panels fold away for a layout all boaters will appreciate. Combine the panels with a unique stern fishing station and you have a truly great fishing setup,” said judge, Brady Kay. 

“The combination of the low profile Rotax 150S outboard and Max Deck design unlocks 38 square feet of aft deck space and eliminates the visual intrusion of the outboard motor. Exterior panels formed of powder coated aluminum supported by a composite inner structure offer a distinctive and handsome profile, and also integrate exterior lighting. The result is a pontoon that breaks new ground for both function and style,” Charles Plueddeman. 

“The Lund Renegade takes a bass boat and makes it more family friendly without compromising fishing ability. Anytime you can enhance a boat’s versatility that’s a bonus,” says judge Eric Colby.

“The bass boat market is so hotly contested that small details make big differences, from the magnetic buckle rod straps to the dual electronic shelf to the new lift latches the Bass Cat Puma STS is the sum of it’s parts,” says judge Eric Colby.

“Offering versatility is crucial in boaters ever evolving needs today. Premier’s 360 degree seating offers new experiences for all at every turn,” says judge Adam Quandt.

“With so many families wanting to get into boating for the first time, the development of the new and affordable Sea-Doo Switch is not only great for the pontoon industry, but it’s huge for the entire boating industry,” said judge Brady Kay.     

"The Crestliner Active Performance Hull (AP-X) blends their established hull manufacturing with the new, unique keel design to enhance low speed handling and high speed efficiency," noted Innovation Awards’ Judge and Chair Brady Kay.

"Yar-Craft has brought unique design improvements and quality manufacturing elements together in their 219TFX. A monocoque, uni-body Iike built, multi-species boat delivers a strong, efficient hull combined with a full featured deck to serve a variety of anglers needs," said Innovation Awards’ Judge Bill Gius.

"The Avalon Waketoon has presented the industry with an innovative design that could become a popular segment within the pontoon boat marketplace. Wake surfing has become one of the most popular “tow” sports and this boat marries that with the most popular boating segment on the water," said Innovation Awards’ Judge Adam Quandt.

"The versatility with very thoughtful and well-designed features including the SportTrak/ProTrak allowed for the use of various accessories from fender holders, rod holders and cup holders.” – Brady Kay, Innovation Judge

“The engineers took on the technical challenge of melding aluminum and fiberglass to create a stronger, but lighter deck and usable storage space.” – Alan Wendt, Innovation Judge

“The design responds to consumer trends for a large, comfortable aft lounge area that through innovative design transforms into an attractive social area with the touch of two buttons and a little elbow grease.” – Bill Gius, Innovation Judge