DÜSSELDORF – The 2024 edition of Boot Duesseldorf – the world’s largest indoor water sports extravaganza – has opened its doors, as usual, with the participation of many Dutch companies.
Two Dutch brands nabbed top honours in European Yacht of 2024 awards: Saffier Yachts, maker of worldclass daysailers and KM Yachtbuilders, maker of go-anywhere explorer sailing yachts.
Saffier Yachts’ Se 24 Lite won in the ‘Special Yachts’ category. It was the builder’s 5th win in the event since 2009. It also unveiled its SL 46 cabin yacht, a major departure from its successful open-cockpit formula.
The Bestevaer 36, part of KM Yachtbuilders’ series of northern explorer yachts, earned a special mention for sustainability: Its sails come from recycled drink bottles; almost two-thirds of the hull and deck are made from recycled aluminum.
KM Yachtbuilders also had Belgian actor and presenter Tom Waes sign a contract for Bestevaer 53 sailing yacht. Construction will begin in March. “Bestevaer has always had something magical for me,” said Waes. “The adventure, the quality, the robustness and the years of expertise have always attracted me.”
Mulder Shipyard shows the Mulder Favourite 1700 Anniversary Edition ‘Summer.’ The yard marks its 85th birthday in 2024
Contest Yachts shows its 49CS and 50CS sailing yachts.
Newcomer Stratos Yacht debuts its first model: the Stratos DB50, billed as an “SUV” of the sea.
Boarnstream is exhibiting the Boarncruiser 50 Traveller.
Dutch nominations for European Boat of 2024 Awards
A total of seven Dutch companies were nominated for the European Boat of 2024 Awards:
- The Steeler 50 TA with kite was nominated for the European Power Boat of the Year award in the long-range category,
- Steeler 50 TA, The Vanton QS45 CC and Edorado 8S for the motor yachts category,
- Bestevaer 36 (KM Yachtbuilders), Contest 50 CS (Contest Yachts), Pointer 30 (Jachtwerf Heeg) and Saffier Se 24Lite (Saffier Yachts) for the sailing yachts category.
