British Marine has announced the first winners of its new National Awards, recognising businesses working across participation, marine technology and sustainable boatbuilding. The awards were presented during the British Marine Trades Association annual dinner in Southampton.
Three categories were awarded in the inaugural programme: Business of the Year, Product or Service of the Year and Sustainability Award. The winners were Rockley Watersports, Computer Network Defence and BlueTree Boatbuilders respectively.
Rockley Watersports takes Business of the Year
Rockley Watersports was recognised for 50 years of activity and its work making watersports accessible across different age groups. British Marine also highlighted the company's contribution to training, skills development and pathways into marine careers.
Participation businesses are an important part of the small-boat sector because they introduce people to sailing, paddlesports and motorboating before many become owners. Long-term training providers can therefore influence both participation and the future customer base for the wider leisure-marine industry.
Osprey cyber platform wins product award
Computer Network Defence received Product or Service of the Year for Osprey, a maritime cyber-security platform designed for vessels with limited space and connectivity. The compact system combines protection, remote monitoring and simpler installation for marine operators.
Cyber security is becoming relevant to increasingly connected boats as navigation, communications and onboard systems depend more heavily on networks. Smaller leisure craft may carry less complex systems than commercial vessels, but connected electronics still create new ownership and security considerations.
BlueTree recognised for sustainable boatbuilding
BlueTree Boatbuilders won the Sustainability Award for Project Harmony and its work on timber-built leisure craft using circular design principles and electric propulsion. British Marine cited responsible sourcing, bio-based materials and continued research as part of the project.
The award does not establish a universal environmental ranking, but it highlights the variety of approaches now being tested in small-craft construction. Timber, electric propulsion and material sourcing are all areas LBG will continue to follow as builders look for lower-impact production methods.