The Award Categories
The World Sailing Day Awards includes 32 categories of awards, showcasing the very best of Sailing Achievements from around the world. The combination of online voting and expert panel judging ensures both relevance and excellence.
the Award for …
Technology & Software
Safety, navigation, electronics
Construction
Construction materials and methods .
Equipment
Fittings, rigging, sails, machinery & gear
Sustainability
Most promising new project of the year
Clubs & Associations
Most innovative club or association across all sailing types
Sailing Schools
Most active and innovative sailing school (<21)
Sailing Camps
Most active and innovative sail camp for ages (<16, <21 and +21)
Maritime Museums
Most innovative, most visited, most inclusive and dynamic museum
Industry Initiative
Most promising industry initiative to have a lasting impact on sailing
Administrator
Most active and innovative administrator of an organisation (promoting and unifying sailing)
Marina
Most forward thinking marina with the highest “value for money” score and youth and vocational activity.
Shipyard/Boatyard
Yard with highest owner and service provider rating and youth and vocational activity and yards with best facilities
Online Media
Contribution
The most active and inspiring media companies that have grown the sailing audience with credible, engaging content
City / Port
The communities (cities and ports) which have promoted sailing related activities and promoted water-side developments the most
Social Media Contribution
The most active online influencers who have inspired and grown the sailing audience with credible, engaging content
Print Publication
Best work to advance the understanding of sailing, maritime history, seamanship, environmental issues, or the sailing community
Music
Best created or performed work which reflects sailing culture, its adventure, emotion, heritage, or connection to the sea.
Performing Arts
Best theatre, dance or comedy which demonstrates artistic quality, skill, originality, and emotional impact while creatively interpreting themes linked to sailing, the sea, maritime culture, or maritime life.
Writing
Best work to highlight themes of sailing, adventure, friendship, ocean exploration, maritime heritage, or caring for the sea. Preference is given to pieces that inspire children to discover sailing or appreciate the ocean.
Visual Arts
Best artwork to meaningfully explore themes of sailing, the sea, maritime heritage, or ocean stewardship. This includes both literal and abstract interpretations that deepen understanding or appreciation of the sailing experience.
Company of the Year
The Company of the Year Award recognises businesses that raise the standard of the global sailing industry through outstanding products, service and support. It honours organisations that invest in people, safety and innovation.
The Individual Hero Categories
For each of the 10 sailing types within the World Sailing Day, an individual contributor is singled out for his/her outstanding contribution made towards the expansion of sailing. As reminder – the categories are :
Competition
The Competition Sailing Award celebrates athletes whose results, sportsmanship and preparation set the pace for others.
Cruising
The Cruising & Blue‑water Sailing Award celebrates voyagers who plan and complete notable passages with quiet professionalism.
Motor
The Motor Sailing Award celebrates mariners who master the combined discipline of sail and power.
Inland
The Inland Sailing Award celebrates communities and sailors who make lakes and rivers central to local life.
Youth
The Youth Sailing Award celebrates young sailors who show exceptional progress, character and commitment.
Board
The Board Sailing Award celebrates windsurfing and related disciplines where athleticism meets reading the breeze.
Classsic
The Classic Sailing Award celebrates the people and teams who keep traditional vessels and skills alive on the water.
Exploration
The Exploration Sailing Award celebrates expeditions that expand knowledge, open routes or document remote waters with care.
Model
The Model Award celebrates model yacht design, build and racing where small hulls prove big ideas.
E-Sailing
The E‑Sailing Award celebrates competitive digital sailors and organisers who bring tactics and community into the virtual arena.
Become a Parter/Sponsor!
World Sailing Day brings together clubs, sailors, cities, companies and cultural institutions in one coordinated global moment each year, on 28 May.
By partnering with us, you place your organisation inside a trusted international network that celebrates how sailing innovates, educates and contributes to society and the sea.