The Honours 2025 judging completed in preparation for FLIBS award ceremony

The selection process for the 2025 Honours ceremony has concluded, with three Honourees chosen for this year’s event which will be held on 28 October 2025 at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS).

Derived from an initiative by The Superyacht Life Foundation in collaboration with Pier 66 and FLIBS, The Honours recognises individuals making a lasting impact within the superyacht industry and beyond. The awards champion a more mindful, sustainable and compassionate future, celebrating visionary leaders whose work shapes both the sector and wider society.

“At its core, The Superyacht Life Foundation is about celebrating the human stories that define our industry, the innovation, generosity, and quiet leadership that often go unseen,” commented Dilan Saraç, Executive Director of The Superyacht Life Foundation.

From over 238 nominations received across the superyacht community and adjacent industries, a rigorous evaluation process narrowed the field to a shortlist of 18 exceptional candidates. These were carefully assessed by a distinguished panel of experts who convened earlier last week at the Royale Industrieele Groote Club in Amsterdam.

“The incredible number of nominations we receive each year for The Honours reflects the extraordinary individuals who are shaping the perception of superyachting. From championing inclusion and sustainability to uplifting communities across the globe, the breadth of impact is truly inspiring,” added Saraç.

The judging panel, welcomed by Andrew Doole and chaired by Farouk Nefzi, Chief Marketing Officer at Feadship, included notable industry figures such as renowned yacht designer Espen Øino, Merijn de Waard, founder of SuperYacht Times, Jeroen Sirag, Marketing Director at Royal Huisman and Francesca Fenucci, Chief Commercial Officer at BWA Yachting.

In a notable development, the panel also featured two judges from outside the superyachting sector. Jonny Clark, Managing Director at Ink Creative, who brought perspectives from the travel media and aviation sectors, while Nicola Chilton, Founder of Untold Stories, contributed insights from luxury hospitality and travel.

Candidates were evaluated across a broad range of criteria, including professional achievement, community engagement, philanthropic initiatives, leadership, innovation and personal integrity. After extensive deliberation, the judges reached a unanimous decision, selecting three individuals.

“Our 2025 Honourees embody the very best of what this industry can represent. Their work reflects not only professional excellence but a deep sense of purpose. They remind us and the world that superyachting is about more than yachts; it’s about people, and the positive change they can create far beyond our industry,” concluded Saraç.

The winners will be formally announced at the 2025 Honours ceremony in Fort Lauderdale on 28 October, coinciding with the much-anticipated opening of FLIBS.