Successfully launched in 2024, the Innovation Route quickly became an unmissable highlight of Europe’s largest in-water show.
A showcase of cutting-edge technologies and eco-conscious approaches, this initiative features the most significant advances shaping the future of yachting. For the 2025 edition, the Cannes Yachting Festival is taking an additional step by launching the Innovation Route Awards, aimed at rewarding the most remarkable projects and promoting the players who are making sailing more attractive and sustainable.
A rigorous selection by a jury of experts
With more than 120 applications received, the selection was not obvious. After in-depth deliberations, the six members of the expert jury, all influential professionals in the nautical sector, carefully selected the 40 innovations that stand out for their boldness, relevance and ability to transform the industry.
The Innovation Route confirms that the boating revolution is underway, with increasingly tangible solutions. Among the standout innovations are the MODX 70, a 100% electric catamaran combining inflatable sails, electric motors, and 70 m² of solar panels; the Lagoon Eighty 2, the first catamaran incorporating 40% resin made from natural or recycled materials; and the Millikan M.10, an electro-solar catamaran capable of sailing with complete zero-emission autonomy.
Safety is also advancing with AnchorGuardian, a groundbreaking ultra-precise anchor detection system, and SEA.AI Watchkeeper, which uses AI and night vision to prevent collisions.
Finally, hybridisation is becoming more accessible thanks to BlueNav BlueSpin, the innovation of Seadrive and the Leopard 46 Electric Drive, while the Vaan R5 and Tortue 147 represent a new generation of boats built from recyclable and circular materials.
The jury consists of:
- Guillaume Arnaud des Lyons – Deputy General Delegate of the FIN,
- Thierry Berest – Founder of Boat & Sea Consulting, maritime consultant,
- Jean-Christophe Guillaumin – Editor, author, journalist, Figaro Nautisme editor,
- Geoffroy Langlade – Journalist and entrepreneur,
- Elena Patriarca – Director of Adzurra S.r.l.,
- Craig Ritchie – North America Editor for International Boat Industry (IBI).
Four winners—Solutions enhancing the sailing experience; Sustainable and responsible technologies; Propulsion systems or alternative energies; Low environmental impact processes or products—will receive their Innovation Route Awards on the evening of Tuesday 9 September, while a Special Jury Prize will be awarded to the most outstanding innovation.
Innovations shaping the future of sailing
The 40 innovations selected embody the industry’s commitment to decarbonised yachting and an unparalleled user experience. They represent the best of the industry’s ingenuity and vision. The full list is available HERE. Sylvie Ernoult, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival, emphasises:
“We are particularly proud to see the growing importance of major innovations at the Cannes Yachting Festival year after year. The 40 products, services or equipment selected by our expert jury demonstrate the industry’s deep commitment to more eco-friendly yachting while constantly focused on providing a better sailing experience.”
