Increasing the attractiveness of recreational yachting while adhering to environmental requirements have become key priorities for many of the yachting industry’s players throughout the past few years; with this in mind, they have developed an extensive range of groundbreaking innovations including electric or hybrid propulsion systems, bio-based composite materials, energy optimisation solutions & intelligent on-board systems. Ultimately, these don’t just reduce their vessels’ environmental footprint, but also cater to increasing customer expectations for enjoyable navigating, comfort, connectivity, and ease of use.
The worldwide market for recreational boating electric engines has grown by a factor of 30% since 2018, while the usage of bio-based building materials and integration of solar technologies have increased by 35% & 40% respectively. These figures reflect the keen willingness of shipbuilders and equipment manufacturers alike to transition into an eco-responsible future while meeting the new generation of users’ expectations. Increasingly, younger yacht owners are seeking serene yet emotive experiences on the water, while mitigating their environmental impact.
Amid this environment, 2025’s Cannes Yachting Festival will return its Innovation Route segment to form a distinctive showcase of breakthrough technologies & eco-friendly approaches. This year’s edition will better highlight new exhibitors with solutions that have high impact potential, while launching the inaugural Innovation Route Awards. They will recognize the most remarkable projects and the people behind them, who are making sailing more attractive & sustainable without compromising performance or pleasure.
The Awards’ four categories comprise sustainable and responsible technologies, alternative propulsion or energy systems, solutions that improve the navigation experience, and processes or products with low environmental impact. A selection of influential nautical personalities will make up its jury, including Guillaume Arnaud des Lyons, Deputy General Manager of the FIN; Thierry Berest, Founder of Boat and Sea Consulting, Elena Patriarca, Director of Adzurra S.r.l.; and Craig Ritchie, International Boat Industry’s North America Editor.
Winners of the Awards will be announced upon the show’s opening itself on Tuesday, 9th September 2025, with a Special Jury Prize to be awarded to an especially bold or exemplary project. From then until the 14th of September, visitors are welcome to explore the innovations shaping sailing’s future throughout Vieux Port and Port Canto.
