The YachtBuyer awards set out a clear purpose: to highlight production boats that have proved their quality under real conditions, backed by the sea trials and detailed scoring found in YachtBuyer reviews.
What It Takes to Enter the YachtBuyer Hall of Fame
The YachtBuyer 5 Star Trophy was created to highlight boats that deliver strong real-world performance under a consistent testing framework developed over four years. Since the review program began, the team has assessed more than 260 models, from compact sportsboats to 60m superyachts. Owner-operated boats under 24m undergo full sea trials, during which handling, helm feel, visibility, motion, and docking are closely evaluated.
To find out how we rate each yacht watch the video below:
Every model is scored across six categories:
- Performance and Handling
- Design and Build
- Interior Accommodation
- Helm Stations
- On Deck Features
- Value for Money
Not just another award — reserved for truly outstanding yachts
Fewer than nine percent of all yachts tested have ever earned a flawless 5 Star score, just 26 boats worldwide. YachtBuyer is highly selective about which motor yachts it tests, funding every trial internally to ensure complete independence and focus on the very best models. These exceptional yachts now form the foundation of the Hall of Fame, setting a benchmark for excellence that will continue to grow as new yachts achieve this elite standard.
The YachtBuyer 5 Star Trophy is not about hype or politics, it’s about celebrating genuine excellence..."
Reviews Director
YachtBuyer
The program is grounded in independence. YachtBuyer does not take advertising, sponsorship, or entry fees from shipyards. All reviews are produced and funded internally, ensuring there is no commercial influence on selection, testing, or scoring. This commitment to neutrality underpins the awards and sets clear expectations for builders and buyers alike.
Every inducted model receives a dedicated Hall of Fame profile on YachtBuyer.com that features the full written review, a detailed video walkthrough, and, where relevant, footage from sea trials. These videos also appear on the YachtBuyer YouTube channel, now followed by more than 600,000 subscribers, giving each awarded yacht significant global visibility. The Hall of Fame operates as an ongoing record rather than an annual list. Once a boat earns a 5-star score, it becomes eligible for induction, with formal trophy presentations taking place at major shows and shipyards throughout the year.
Inducted at Cannes: The 2025 YachtBuyer Hall of Fame Class
During the Cannes yachting festival, the first YachtBuyer 5 Star Trophies were presented to six standout models, officially inducting them into the YachtBuyer Hall of Fame, with senior shipyard representatives on hand to accept the awards.
Guests
8
Cabins
4
Crew
3
The Absolute Navetta 75 impressed through its balance of internal volume, practicality, and long-range comfort. The arrangement on board felt carefully organised, with the internal staircase improving movement between decks and contributing to a more natural day-to-day rhythm. The forward owner’s cabin provided a quiet, private retreat with wide views and strong separation from guest areas. The IPS1350 engine setup supported smooth, quiet running and clear control, suiting the yacht’s focus on extended cruising.
The BG42 stood out for its mix of precise handling and travel range, supported by a deep-V hull and IPS drivetrain that produced a confident driving position from the raised helm. The open deck configuration made it adaptable for day trips, short cruising, and sportfishing, with storage and detailing that felt robust under use. Build execution across the exterior and interior reinforced its sense of purpose, helping this Bluegame boat secure its place among the top performers.
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BOAT TESTBluegame BG42 Review (2018 Edition)
The Pearl 63 built on the groundwork of the Pearl 62 with changes that added real value on board. New fold-down balconies increased useable waterside space, while the enlarged tender garage could now house a semi-inflated Williams MiniJet, improving day-to-day convenience. The accommodation on board the Pearl yacht plan remained a strong point, supported by Kelly Hoppen’s interior palettes, and the IPS system provided composed, confident handling. These updates placed the 63 among the most capable models tested this year.
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BOAT TESTPearl 63 Review (2025 Edition)
The Y72 earned its position through a layout that worked well during testing, particularly the full-beam owner’s cabin, which offered strong proportions and good privacy. The VIP cabin felt generous for the size, and the deck areas had a practical flow that suited day use and longer stays. At sea, the Princess boat delivered steady, predictable handling between 20 and 28 knots, giving the hull a sense of maturity that distinguished it in this part of the market.
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BOAT TESTPrincess Y72 Review (2025 Edition)
Guests
6
Cabins
3
Crew
1
The Manhattan 55 earned its position through an interior that felt broad, well-finished, and comfortable at anchor or underway. The galley-aft design worked well for social spaces on both decks, and the flybridge offered one of the most generous layouts in its size class. During testing, the owner’s cabin stood out for its space and glazing, and the Sunseeker boat maintained an easy 25 to 26 knot cruise with reassuring stability, rounding out a well-developed package.
Why Independent Testing Matters for Buyers
YachtBuyer’s process centers on giving buyers accurate and practical insight. Real-world testing is central to that. Many owner-operators purchase boats without driving the model themselves, relying instead on dockside viewings or virtual tours. YachtBuyer’s trials aim to close that gap by demonstrating exactly how a boat behaves in realistic conditions.
YachtBuyer's Founder and CEO Kevin Bodington explained the reasoning behind this approach: “A surprisingly high percentage of new boats purchased by owner operators are bought without the buyer ever getting the chance to drive the boat themselves. That’s why our sea trials, and the videos we produce from them, are so important. They allow buyers to see exactly how a boat handles, how it performs at sea, and what it’s like to operate during docking. Our reviews give people the understanding and confidence they need when choosing their next boat, and help them identify which options will truly enhance their ownership experience.”
A surprisingly high percentage of new boats purchased by owner operators are bought without the buyer ever getting the chance to drive the boat themselves. That’s why our sea trials, and the videos we produce from them, are so important.
Founder & CEO
YachtBuyer
This focus on clarity for buyers is consistent across the entire YachtBuyer platform, including MarketWatch, which filters out duplicate, outdated, and inaccurate listings to show what is really for sale.
Building a Long-Term Benchmark for the Industry
The first class of YachtBuyer Hall of Fame inductees sets the foundation for an independent benchmark that will grow as more boats complete the testing process. The aim is long-term consistency: a clear, trusted reference point for buyers and an acknowledgment of models that deliver performance, practicality, and thoughtful design.
As more boats reach the 5-star threshold, additional trophies and Hall of Fame profiles will follow. The program is intended to expand steadily, supported by ongoing global testing and the continued growth of YachtBuyer’s review and data infrastructure.
The inaugural inductees offer a strong foundation, and the months ahead will see further models join a growing group of boats that have proved their ability under scrutiny.
When visiting boat shows or browsing online, keep an eye out for yachts that have been awarded a YachtBuyer 5 Star Trophy. These yachts represent the very best in design, performance, and craftsmanship, earning a place in the Hall of Fame and setting the benchmark for excellence in the industry.
Inspired by these YachtBuyer 5-star yachts? View all new and used superyachts for sale, tracked in real-time by YachtBuyer MarketWatch. We scan the entire market to ensure access to all genuine listings, saving you time. Alternatively, you can view all other yachts for sale.
