The National Marine Manufacturers Association this week announced the winners of its Minneapolis Innovation Awards, which were handed out at the Minneapolis Boat Show. The program recognized four manufacturers in three categories, including fishing boats, pontoon boats and furnishings.
“The marine products honored with this year’s Innovation Awards were developed by companies dedicated to advancing the recreational boating industry,” show manager Darren Envall said in a statement. “We’re excited to showcase these innovations and the dozens of other new marine products at the 2023 Discover Boating Minneapolis Boat Show.”
The awards program was judged by Boating Writers International members Brady Kay, Adam Quandt and Charles Plueddeman.
Lund Boats received the Innovation Award for the Veer X13 in the fishing boat category.
“Bringing in an entirely new concept of boat with next-generation technologies and an entry-level price point, the Veer X13 offers the joy of getting on the water to a whole new generation of boaters,” Quandt said in the statement.
In the pontoon category, BRP won the award for the Manitou Explore, and Premier Marine received the award for the 230 Sunsation Angler.
“The combination of the low profile Rotax 150S outboard and Max Deck design unlocks 38 square feet of aft deck space and eliminates the visual intrusion of the outboard motor,” Plueddeman said about the Manitou Explore. “Exterior panels formed of powder-coated aluminum supported by a composite inner structure offer a distinctive and handsome profile, and also integrate exterior lighting. The result is a pontoon that breaks new ground for both function and style.”
Referencing the 230 Sunsation, Kay said, “Designed to open access to the water for anglers, the Open Water Panels fold away for a layout all boaters will appreciate. Combine the panels with a unique stern fishing station, and you have a truly great fishing setup.”
In the furnishings category, Barletta Boats was awarded for the Meridian Lounge. “As the popularity of multifunction rear lounges continues to grow, Barletta discovered a unique way to give you the same versatility but in a center walkthrough design.”
