European Powerboat of the Year 2026: The nominated boats up to 14 metres
The candidates in the 5 other categories:
- Boats up to 10 metres in length
- Motor yachts up to 14 metres in length
- Motor yachts up to 18 metres in length
- Motor yachts up to 24 metres in length
- Catamarans
Aiata Wayfinder 38
With the Aiata Wayfinder 38 the young brand makes its debut and presents a versatile walkaround boot that combines modern design with a high degree of flexibility. Developed in collaboration with international designers, the model stands out with its clear lines and sporty proportions.
At around twelve metres long and 3.5 metres wide, the Wayfinder 38 offers a good balance of space, performance and ease of handling. Outboard engines ensure powerful acceleration and a high top speed of 45 knots. During the test, it became clear that both sporty sailing and relaxed cruising are definitely possible.
The boat is available in different versions: as an open version for a maximum outdoor experience, as a cabin version with a closed wheelhouse and additional overnight accommodation and as a fishing version with a customised layout. This means that the equipment can be customised to suit the intended use. The special thing about the boat, however, is its modularity. According to the shipyard, the open version can be converted from the closed version in just one working day. The same applies the other way round.
In the foredeck, a spacious lounge invites you to relax, while the aft cockpit can be used in a variety of ways - as a seating area, with a sun lounger or optional wet bar. High-quality materials and a clear-cut interior also create a modern ambience below deck.
The boat is powered by a maximum of 2 x 425 hp. In our test, we drove the boat with two Honda BF 350 with 350 hp. One thing you can definitely say: we didn't miss any sportiness. There was little else to complain about either.
- Length over everything: 11,57 m
- Width: 3,49 m
- Weight: 7,478 kg
- Max. motorisation: 850 HP
- Further information: www.aiataboats.com
Beneteau Gran Turismo 40
The Gran Turismo 40 from Beneteau is a new express cruiser that combines sporty elegance and sophisticated comfort in a modern design. At around 12.53 metres long and 3.64 metres wide, the dimensions already offer the promise of a good balance between exterior space and living space.
There are different versions - outboard or sterndrive - and spacious lounge areas. A cockpit with a double L-shaped seating area and wet bar invite you to socialise, while the sun deck and flexible shading in the foredeck allow you to alternate between sun and shade. Freedom of movement on board is a top priority.
Below deck, the interior layout is cosy and practical: an owner's cabin in the bow, a mid-cabin that can be used variably, a full bathroom with shower and storage facilities.
Technically, the Gran Turismo 40 offers state-of-the-art hull technology with the patented Air-Step system, which combines better running characteristics, a smoother ride in waves and more efficient consumption. The fuel tank holds 2 x 435 litres for the inboard version and 2 x 600 litres for the outboard version. Fuel and water capacities are designed so that both day trips and weekend cruises are possible.
- Length over everything: 12,67 m
- Width: 3,87 m
- Weight: 7,935 PS
- Max. Motorisation: 560 HP
- Further information: www.beneteau.com
Marex 390
The Marex 390 expands the Norwegian manufacturer's model range with a cruiser that sits between the 330 and the 440. With a length of twelve metres and a width of 3.73 metres, the boat offers dimensions that are suitable for both inland and coastal areas.
The layout favours practical solutions and versatility. The cockpit features a large U-shaped sofa with a table that can seat up to eight people. A sliding door provides direct access to the saloon, which is bright and open thanks to the large glazed areas. Flexible roof and canopy systems make it possible to quickly close or open the area depending on the weather.
Below deck, the Marex 390 has two double cabins and a bathroom with separate shower. It is therefore designed for families or small crews who want to spend several days on board. Storage space solutions for equipment and luggage are integrated into the concept.
There are various Volvo Penta diesel engines to choose from. They come from either the D4 or D6 series and have between 320 and 480 hp per engine. The power is transferred to the water either as a Z-drive or shaft drive. Two engines are installed in each case.
- Length: 12,00 m
- Width: 3,73 m
- Weight: 12,900 kg
- Max. motorisation: 960 HP
- Further information: marex.no
Maxim Yachts Max44 R
The Max44 R is a new day cruiser or walkaround from the Spanish shipyard Maxim Yachts, developed in collaboration with the designer Alex Cherigny and the engineering firm Isonaval. The yacht combines sporty performance with generous outdoor space and moderate living comfort.
It measures 13.41 metres in length, has a width of 3.70 metres and a draught of around 0.84 metres. The Max44 R is powered as standard by three Mercury Verado V10 outboard engines with 400 hp each, totalling around 1,200 hp. There is an option for three Yamahas with 450 hp each.
The deck layout is open and flexible. There are two folding tables in the centre with seating for ten people, as well as several sofas - one of which has built-in coolers. The helm station is equipped with a carbon fibre console and seating for several people. A large hardtop provides protection from the sun. There are two double cabins below deck, one of which can be converted (e.g. as a relaxation or lounge area). There is also a bathroom with shower.
- Length over everything: 13,41 m
- Width: 3,70 m
- Weight: -
- Max. motorisation: 1.350 PS
- Further information: www.maxim.yachts
Windy SR40
The Windy SR40 is a sporty day cruiser from the Swedish shipyard Windy, which is positioned between the classic sports cruisers and the SR yacht tenders. With a length of 12.20 m (with inboard motorisation) or 13.05 m (with outboard motorisation) and a width of four metres, it offers enough space for up to four people.
The deck layout is characterised by an open design with a hardtop and retractable side doors, which provide flexibility in different weather conditions. The control console is ergonomically designed and offers a clear overview. The spacious cockpit lounge invites you to linger, while the design of the bathing platform facilitates access to the water.
Below deck, the SR40 has a double cabin and a bathroom with shower, making it suitable for longer excursions or weekend trips. The interior combines Scandinavian design with functional details that ensure both comfort and practicality.
The SR40 is available in various engine options: with two Volvo Penta D6-440 diesels (440 hp each), three Mercury V10-400 outboard engines (400 hp each) or two Mercury V12-600 outboard engines (600 hp each). The maximum speed varies between 42 and 52 knots depending on the engine.
With a draught of 0.84 m and a weight of 10,000 to 10,400 kg (depending on configuration), the SR40 is suitable for both coastal cruising and inland waterways. It has a fuel tank of 1,130 litres and a fresh water tank of 200 litres.
- Length over everything: 13,05 m
- Width: 4,02 m
- Weight: from 10,200 kg
- Max. motorisation: 1,200 HP
- Further information: www.windyboats.com
