Innovation Winners at the Heart of Boating Cannes Yachting Festival 2025

Since its launch in 2024, the Innovation Route has become a defining feature of the Cannes Yachting Festival, spotlighting the most daring technological and ecological advances in the nautical sector. In 2025, the initiative reached a new milestone with the creation of the Innovation Route Awards, a distinction designed to honour the most promising projects among the 40 innovations showcased at this year’s edition.

Through these awards, the festival seeks to recognise the companies and shipyards that are reshaping recreational boating with concrete solutions for safer navigation, sustainable propulsion, and environmentally responsible design. Following a rigorous evaluation by a jury of industry experts, four winners were announced, each representing a major step forward in a sector undergoing rapid transformation.

Improved Navigation Experience: WATCHKEEPER (SEA.AI) – PAN345

A breakthrough in maritime safety, Watchkeeper integrates thermal imaging, machine vision, and artificial intelligence to automatically detect floating objects and prevent collisions, delivering safer and more predictable navigation.

Sustainable and Responsible Technologies: MODX 70 (MODX Catamarans) – SAIL035

The world’s first 100% electric 70-foot catamaran combines Aeroforce inflatable wings, electric propulsion, hydrogeneration, and 70 m² of solar panels to achieve unlimited zero-emission cruising.

Propulsion Systems / Alternative Energies: M.10 (Millikan Boats) – POWER073

This autonomous electro-solar catamaran generates up to 35 kWh daily, enabling smooth, silent, and emission-free sailing both day and night — an innovative step towards carbon-free boating.

Low Environmental Impact Processes / Products: Vaan R5 (Vaan Yachts) – SAIL083

Built from recycled aluminium and circular materials, this 49-foot sailing yacht is 95% recyclable and embodies Vaan’s “Sail the Planet” philosophy, marrying high performance with sustainability.