The Boat Builder Awards 2024, organized by METSTRADE/RAI, ICOMIA, and IBI, were presented at a dinner and ceremony held at the National Maritime Museum in Amsterdam. This year’s 10th anniversary event recognized the Jakopin brothers as Designers of the Year.
The award honors their four decades of significant contributions to boat design and production. Their company, J&J Design, has been involved in nearly 400 projects for 70 boatbuilders across 30 countries, resulting in the production of 75,000 boats and yachts ranging from 10 to 150 meters in length. Their office currently employs 24 naval architects, designers, and engineers, and operates a tooling, milling, and prototyping facility with 45 technicians and two 20-meter milling machines.
While the Jakopin brothers are celebrated for their innovative projects, they have also made significant behind-the-scenes contributions to the production of other boats. Their deep, hands-on knowledge of all aspects of boat production and their pioneering work in carbon epoxy and hybrid power technologies have been instrumental in shaping the industry.
Their company, J&J Design, has been instrumental in shaping the industry, particularly through their work on the Beneteau Group’s Island Cruising Concept, a project that aligns with their commitment to sustainable boating.
The Island Cruising Concept, a collaborative effort with Marc Lombard Studio, was brought to life by J&J, who were responsible for its design, engineering, and tooling. Two prototype yachts, manufactured by J&J, are currently being used to gather market feedback in Croatia and the British Virgin Islands.
J&J’s long-standing dedication to responsible boating is evident in their work on projects such as the Greenline 33 Hybrid and the BMW/Tyde electric foiling yacht. In fact, J&J has designed and engineered the largest fleet of hybrid and electric boats currently sailing.
Photos Metstrade, Beneteau
